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
Many childbirth books offer a picture of the birth process that has been influenced by the medical model as a standard. "Ina May's Guide to Childbirth" describes birth as a physiological process, with respect to the many variations of natural (unmedicated) vaginal birth. I consider this book to be a must-read for anyone who desires … Continue reading Book Review: “Ina May’s Guide To Childbirth” by Ina May Gaskin
Ever wondered how to make a belly cast? This is a fun idea for the last few weeks of the the third trimester (or after baby’s Guess Date has come and gone) when your belly is as abundant as it’ll ever be, and you’re waiting on baby to make his or her arrival among us … Continue reading How To Make a Pregnancy Belly Cast
