First things first: Pitocin is not oxytocin. Oxytocin is the "love hormone" generated in labor that primarily contracts the uterus, but as a brain-based hormone its influence spans the body. It's very active in the birth giver's brain, and plays a role in protecting certain receptors in the baby's brain, too.Pitocin is a synthetic form … Continue reading Pitocin & Postpartum Depression/Anxiety
Here are my suggestions for things a freshly postpartum person may find quite handy, in no particular order… Organic EVOO Apply organic extra-virgin olive oil to your newborn’s bottom; this keeps meconium from sticking to skin and makes for much easier cleanup. Peri Bottle If you birthed at a hospital, they will let you take … Continue reading Top 10 Things You Need Postpartum
So you're wondering -- what exactly are doula prenatal/postnatal visits all about? As every doula is unique, so is the outline for visits, the number offered, content covered, and overall feel. As a Birth Boot Camp Doula, I prefer to call these "birth plan visits" to avoid confusion with a care provider's prenatal and postpartum … Continue reading What Happens at Doula Visits?
You might have heard of postpartum doulas and thought, "I've got family nearby and friends who will probably visit, so I don't have the need." It's true that relatives and friends are tremendous assets to the postpartum support network. But here's the thing: sometimes we may feel obligated to entertain or host guests who arrive … Continue reading How is Postpartum Doula Care Different From Friend & Family Help?
You learned about who and what postpartum doulas ARE here, but maybe you're still not clear on what it is exactly they DO. In general, care is usually tailored to an individual client's needs. Did they have a surgical or vaginal birth? Do they have additional helpers? How about other children? Are they on a … Continue reading What Does A Postpartum Doula Do?
