Metroplex Birth

Birth Doula and Classes in Grapevine, Texas

Best Books for a Natural Birth

Best Book for Natural Birth

Preparing for Natural Birth

So, you’re planning a natural birth… awesome!  Before I start talking about books, can I just take a minute to give you a little pep talk? When it comes to having an unmedicated birth, women tend to doubt themselves or say, “Well, I want to, but I have a low pain tolerance” or “I want to, but I don’t know if I can.”  

As someone who has witnessed countless students and doula clients have natural births, as well as had three natural births of my own, I’m here to tell you that you absolutely can do it! Your body was made to have a baby and your baby’s birth holds the possibility of being one of the most beautiful, transformative experiences of your life. 

Best books for unmedicated birth

Of course, natural birth can happen without any preparation at all, but you will likely have a more peaceful, enjoyable birth experience if you spend some time preparing for your birth during pregnancy. Educating yourself is the best way to prepare for natural birth, either by taking a comprehensive birth class or by reading empowering books about birth. I did both when I was preparing for my first unmedicated birth and I recommend both to all expecting moms no matter what type of birth they are planning.

Best books for natural birth

The Best Natural Birth Books:

  1. Ina May’s Guide to Childbirth by Ina May Gaskin 

This one is an absolute classic and I consider it required reading for all pregnant women. Much of the content focuses on how amazing women’s bodies are and how natural and normal birth is. The first half of the book contains birth stories and the second half is filled with inspirational and eye-opening information to help you feel empowered and less fearful about birth. It’s information on relaxation and trusting your body’s ability to give birth is gold!

  1. Natural Hospital Birth by Cynthia Gabriel

This book has many important tips for giving birth specifically in the hospital and helps you work through being an advocate for yourself, even if you are faced with a less than supportive hospital environment. It answers all the big questions about natural birth and gives specifics about what to do, think, and say to experience a peaceful, natural hospital birth. You don’t have to be planning a hospital birth to benefit from reading this either. I actually first read this before my home birth and loved it!  Do not miss reading her perspective on pain in childbirth in the introduction. It is so helpful!  

  1. The Thinking Woman’s Guide to a Better Birth by Henci Goer

This book challenges many elements of maternity care and really helps you think through why things are done the way they are. This is not a touchy feely, artsy approach to birth. It won’t teach you to relax or get in touch with your inner mother. Instead, it will guide you through a rational examination of studies and help you think through what you want for your birth. Some of the studies she cites are older, but many practices have unfortunately not changed much at all. It is still very relevant, empowering, and thought provoking.  

  1. The Birth Partner by Penny Simkin 

If you plan to have someone with you at your birth – a husband, a partner, a mother, a friend – they need to be prepared for natural birth too! It will make your birth unnecessarily difficult to be accompanied by someone who is scared or uninformed or even opposed to natural birth. This book offers practical information that will help your partner feel useful and prepared before the big day. It’s a pretty thick book, so if you have a reluctant reader, maybe suggest a few key chapters, read excerpts aloud to him or her, or highlight certain sections. A supportive, knowledgeable partner will help you feel safe, loved, and relaxed as you approach your birth.

  1. Birthing From Within by Pam England & Rob Horowitz 

This book combines birth stories with a unique collection of birth advice. It is especially helpful in preparing for the mental and emotional sides of labor. The authors incorporate art and journaling as useful tools for preparing your mind and heart, which can be especially great for those working through a lot of fear or anxiety as they anticipate their birth or as they process past birth experiences. It’s an especially good choice for intuitive and creative types. 

  1. Bonus Recommendation: Birth stories, birth stories, birth stories!  

Read or listen to lots of positive, empowering birth stories. You can find stories in some of the books I’ve listed, but there are also many resources online and podcasts available with tons of great birth stories. They will teach you so much. Not only will you have a more complete picture of all the ways birth can unfold, but you’ll also start realizing that if all these women can do it, you can do it too!  

Prepare for natural birth by reading empowering books.

Read Your Way to an Amazing Birth

Of course, there are many other excellent books on birth, but these are the handful I found especially inspirational. If you haven’t read much about natural birth up to this point, these books are a hearty dose of jaw-dropping, blow-your-mind information that you will soak up like a sponge!

I highly recommend you read them and let them transform your ideas about what is possible for your birth. Am I overselling them? I don’t think so! Check them out and let me know what you think. I’d love to hear what your favorite birth books are in the comments!  

Whipped Belly Butter

Pregnancy Belly Butter

Easy Homemade Belly Butter

Homemade belly butter feels amazing on tight pregnancy skin and has the added bonus of being a fun DIY project. It tends to feel heavier than typical lotion when you first put it on, but is so much better at keeping your skin super supple during those last months of pregnancy. I modified this recipe from my friend Michelle at She’s So Natural and it’s perfect for melting into your growing belly when you step out of the shower. It’s also great for hand or foot massages as part of your pregnancy relaxation routine!H

Simple Ingredients

This whipped belly butter is filled with all sorts of natural hydrating ingredients like almond oil, shea butter, and cocoa butter. All the ingredients should be readily available at your local health food store or can be ordered online. And it only takes a few minutes to whip up using a stand mixer in your kitchen.

Personalize Your Scent

Not only does this belly butter feel smooth as silk, but the cocoa butter makes it smell chocolatey and delicious! By adding essential oils, you can give it an orange-chocolate or peppermint-chocolate natural fragrance. You might also try lavender or another soothing oil blend. If you prefer fragrance free, sub mango butter for the cocoa butter and leave out the essential oils. It will still feel super moisturizing and luxurious!

Belly Butter Ingredients:

½ cup Shea butter

½ cup Cocoa butter

½ cup Almond oil

½ cup Coconut oil

20 drops of essential oils of your choice (optional)

Whipped Belly Butter

Directions:

  1. Measure all butters and oils (except the essential oil) into a glass bowl.
  2. Fill a large saucepan with 1-2 inches of water. Bring to a boil. Once boiling, place the glass bowl on top of your saucepan to melt the ingredients. Keep burner heat set to low.
  3. Stir every few minutes while the oils are melting. It may take 10-15 minutes for everything to combine. Your final product should be a smooth, golden liquid.
  4. Once everything is melted, remove from the heat and let it cool for 5-10 minutes. When cooled slightly, transfer to your mixing bowl and add your essential oils.
  5. Let it rest in your refrigerator until it has set. It should turn from a liquid to a semi-solid state. You will know it is done when it maintains a finger indent when pressed. If it is too soft, put it back in to chill longer. If it is too firm, allow it to stand at room temperature until softened. You want it to be like soft butter.
  6. Using a stand mixer, start mixing on low and slowly turn the speed higher until the lotion becomes light and fluffy (around 3-5 minutes). It will literally look like cake frosting, so whip it until that fluffy and creamy consistency is achieved.
  7. Using a spatula, scoop the belly butter out of the bowl and place in a glass jar. Tip: don’t store anything made with essential oils in plastic or it can break down the material.
  8. Store your jar somewhere cool and enjoy your homemade whipped belly butter!
Whipped Belly Butter

Give It a Try!

If you give this recipe a try, leave me a comment and let me know how you enjoyed it. I’d love to know which relaxing fragrance you chose to make!

Christian Birth Affirmations

Birth Affirmations & Verses for the Christian Mom

For the Christian mom, Bible verses and birth affirmations are a powerful way to prepare for a peaceful birth. Pregnancy begins a lifelong journey of care for your child. Someone new is in the world who you love deeply even before you’ve met. So, as I mentioned in my previous post about affirmations, it can be easy for a mother to become distracted by worries or fears as she nears the end of pregnancy. But as a Christian, we don’t need to let these distractions steal our joy. The Bible instructs us to take “every thought captive” (2 Cor 10:5) and remember “whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things” (Phil 4:8).

You know that the Lord, who created the universe, this child, and you is also in control of every detail surrounding your birth. Your Father in Heaven loves you just as much as He always has. In fact, He has promised to help you and never leave you. Reminding yourself of these truths through affirmations and Bible verses throughout your labor can bring the sweetest peace and strength to your birth.

Here are a few Christian birth affirmations to inspire your thinking, followed by a list of encouraging Scripture verses, and a list of verses specifically about fears. I recommend using your baby’s name, if you’ve chosen one, in place of “my baby” in your affirmations.

Christian birth affirmations and Bible verses

CHRISTIAN BIRTH AFFIRMATIONS

  1. God has planned all the days of my baby’s life already, including this one.
  2. God hears my silent prayers and cares for my heart.
  3. I choose to rest in the peace that surpasses understanding.
  4. God has given me all the strength I need for this moment.
  5. I trust the Lord, who made my body to do this.
  6. Jesus is always with me.
  7. I give birth in safety, held by the Lord.
  8. God has perfectly prepared this day for my baby’s birth.
  9. The Lord strengthens me through every breath.
  10. Jesus understands all my thoughts and feelings.
  11. Lord, please take away my fears and replace them with your peace.
  12. I do not labor in my own strength. I rely fully on God.
  13. When I am afraid, I will keep my eyes fixed on You.
  14. I trust the Lord, who continually cares for me.
  15. When things seem uncertain, I rest in the Lord who never changes.
  16. God has chosen my baby to be a special blessing to our family.
  17. My Father in Heaven has prepared me for this day and given me all that I need in Him.
  18. My body is fearfully and wonderfully made.
  19. God will give me the strength to do hard things.
  20. My Father holds me in his hands and is in control of every detail.
  21. God has perfectly designed my body to give birth.
  22. People who love me are praying for me and my baby RIGHT NOW.
  23. You are my rock, my shield, my protector, my friend.
  24. Lord, thank you for this experience. I am grateful for all of it.
Christian birth affirmations and Bible verses

BIBLE VERSES FOR BIRTH

“The Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen and protect you… Now may the Lord of peace Himself continually grant you peace in every circumstance.” 2 Thessalonians 3:3, 16 NASB

“I waited patiently for the Lord; He inclined to me and heard my cry… He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God.” Psalm 40:1,3 ESV

“I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13 ESV

“For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities – all things were created through him and for him. And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together.” Colossians 1:16-17 ESV

“You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock.”  Isaiah 26:3-4 ESV

“Truly my soul finds rest in God; my salvation comes from him. Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken… Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.” Psalm 62:1-2, 8 NIV

“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11 NIV

“From the end of the earth will I cry unto Thee when my heart is overwhelmed; lead me to the rock that is higher than I.” Psalm 61:2 KJ21

“Come to Me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28 ESV

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.” Proverbs 3:5 ESV

“Let all that you do be done in love.” 1 Corinthians 16:14 ESV

“The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.”  Zephaniah 3:17 ESV

“When you go through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you…” Isaiah 43:2 ESV

“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” 2 Corinthians 12:9 ESV

“Behold, children are a gift of the Lord; the fruit of the womb is a reward.” Psalm 127:3 NASB

Christian birth affirmations and Bible verses

BIBLE VERSES FOR LABOR FEARS

“Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties upon him, because he cares for you.”  1 Peter 5:6-7 ESV

“It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.” Deuteronomy 31:8 ESV

“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will  help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10 ESV

“For I, the Lord your God, hold your right hand; it is I who say to you, ‘Fear not, I am the one who helps you.” Isaiah 41:13 ESV

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7 NKJV

“…Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 NKJV

“When I am afraid, I will put my trust in You. In God, whose word I praise, In God I have put my trust; I shall not be afraid.”  Psalm 56:3-4 NASB

“…The Lord is near.  Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.  And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:5-7 NASB

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” John 14:27 ESV

Christian birth affirmations and Bible verses

CHOOSING TO TRUST GOD

You can’t control everything in life or in birth, but you can choose to dwell on God’s love and grace to you. You can remember the incredible way he has made you and taken care of you thus far. I hope these Christian birth affirmations and verses are an encouragement to you and help you enjoy the good gift God has given you on your baby’s birth day!

Want more inspiration? Check out my list of 50 Birth Affirmations for an Amazing Birth. And be sure to comment if you have other favorite affirmations. I’d love to hear what ideas have inspired your birth!

Chiropractic Care in Pregnancy

Southlake chiropractor

Why See a Chiropractor During Pregnancy?

Chiropractic care during pregnancy is a great way to ease pregnancy discomforts and prepare your body for an easier birth. At Birth Boot Camp, we think seeing a prenatal chiropractor is so important that it is included throughout our curriculum. Our classes support proper baby positioning and teach ways to stay healthy and low risk. Chiropractic care is a great tool for achieving these goals and expecting moms are sometimes surprised by how much it improves their pregnancy and labor experience.

Today, Dr. Pam Kendall of Kendall Acupuncture & Chiropractic in Southlake, Texas is going to tell us more about chiropractic care during pregnancy. We will discuss its benefits and how to find a a skilled prenatal chiropractor near you. I hope this information helps you feel your best during your pregnancy and prepares you for an amazing birth!

Benefits of Prenatal Chiropractic Care

Q: What are the goals of chiropractic care during pregnancy? How is it helpful?

A: In my opinion, so much about birth is based upon the position of the baby. Good position=optimum birth with ease. As a prenatal certified chiropractor I can help to assure that your pelvis has proper alignment and that the biomechanics of your spine will be in the best condition possible for the birth that you want to achieve.

Q: When should women begin seeing a chiropractor during pregnancy?

A: I love to see women as early as possible during pregnancy! It just helps to keep away some of the nagging aches and pains that can come along with the process. It’s sort of like using it as a preventative care. Keeping the body in alignment and feeling good. Optimally, Women have been coming to me before they get pregnant. Chiropractic and acupuncture care can prove so vital to achieving a healthy pregnancy.

Q: How is an adjustment done? What does it feel like?

A: I’ve been doing this now since 2001. I was certified way back then and do things pretty standard. I use pregnancy pillows, so you will actually be laying on your belly one of the few times during pregnancy. 🙂 My table has a drop piece. So, the table actually does the work for me. The adjustment is very safe and not at all painful. I am very gentle with my technique. I practice Webster Technique on almost all pregnant moms.

Q: How do I find a chiropractor that specializes in pregnant moms and babies?

A: It’s important to find a chiropractor who is Webster technique certified. However, an even better option would be to find someone who has a pediatric certification. I achieved mine back in 2001 and was one of the first few hundred chiropractors to go through the program. There are now several thousand throughout the country. Icpa4kids.com is a fantastic website for more information.

Q: What are the benefits of chiropractic care for mom and baby during the postpartum period?

A: It is truly one of my biggest honors to be able to adjust a baby after I’ve cared for the mother through her pregnancy. It just touches my heart. In terms of mama, helping her to get her body back into a state where she is able to care for her baby with ease and in a pain-free manner is important. Sometimes birth can be quite “labor”-ous for mom’s body. And adjustment afterwards can just get her feeling like herself again. If she’s nursing, it becomes even more important as this can take quite a toll on the body. And let’s not even talk about the sleep loss. In terms of babies… There’s so much benefit from chiropractic care. It can help with nursing, creating a successful latch, colic, digestive issues, constipation issues. The list really goes on from there. As a pediatric certified chiropractor I’ve had much training on adjusting infants. Honestly, the adjustment on a tiny baby is something that you as a layman will probably not even realize it’s happening because it is so gentle.… I use my pinky finger :). I love the practice that I’ve created because I get to cuddle some super cute babies!

Prenatal Chiropractor in Southlake

Thanks so much to Dr. Pam Kendall for sharing about the benefits of chiropractic care in pregnancy and beyond. If you would like to contact her or learn more about her practice in Southlake, a suburb of Dallas Fort Worth, visit www.kendallcare.com.

Southlake Chiropractor Pam KendallDr. Pam Kendall graduated Magna Cum Laude in 2001 from Cleveland Chiropractic College in Kansas City, Missouri. She is certified in pediatrics by the ICPA and is also certified in acupuncture. Since 2015 she’s also been a certified 200 hour yoga teacher. For many years, she practiced from the playroom of her home as she raised her three kids, all of which were born in the comfort of home. So, she practices what she preaches. Attachment parenting and adjustments all the way in the Kendall home. Since 2011, she and her husband, Dr. Jud, have been practicing together in Southlake. They were high school sweethearts, meeting in 9th grade and dating at the age of 14…that lead to college and then chiropractic college together. They live in Keller with their three kids, two dogs, a cat, a hamster and a turtle.

Great Places to Give Birth in DFW: Edenway Birth Center

Edenway Cleburne

Choosing Where to Give Birth in DFW

Today’s interview features another incredible natural birth option in the Dallas Fort Worth area for those looking for a peaceful out-of-hospital birth experience.  As always, this series focuses on highlighting some of the most mother and baby friendly birthplace options in the metroplex. This birth center definitely fits the bill!

Katy Temple is a childbirth educator and doula in DFW and she’s going to help us get to know Edenway Birth Center in Cleburne, Texas.  Let’s find out what makes this birth center such an amazing place to have a baby!

Edenway Birth Center Cleburne Metroplex Birth

What Makes this Cleburne Birth Center So Great

Q: Tell us about the atmosphere at Edenway.  What are the delivery rooms like?

A:  The atmosphere is incredibly homey! The birth center, itself, is an old house that has been converted into a birth center, so it feels like coming home. The delivery rooms have recently been redecorated and all the medical equipment is hidden, so it literally looks like my own house! It is such a comforting place.

Q: Tell us about the providers who attend births there.

A: The midwives at Edenway are CPMs (Certified Professional Midwives) and offer family-centered care for women throughout pregnancy, birth, and postpartum.  Joining them are several apprentice midwives who are still in school and studying under the midwives. Rosetta and I met and clicked several years ago, before I was even pregnant with my first. She was my primary midwife with my first son and we quickly became good friends. Kayce was her understudy during my first pregnancy and has since finished her schooling. She is just as sweet as can be and so thorough. Anesha is the newest addition to the team. She is the perfect addition to the Edenway family and is very experienced. They are all amazing! They all have their strengths and all of their strengths work so incredibly well together. It’s really an amazing thing to watch.

Q: What are some of the best features they offer for moms and babies?

A: Some of the best features they offer for mom and baby are the birthing tub, the long prenatal appointments, the birth stool, access to a full kitchen, an outdoor courtyard that is lovely to walk around in, a toy area for older kids to play in, and so much more! They really treat you like family there! They also have a lending library of books and they sell an assortment of herbs and supplements, so you don’t have to go to a health food store to find what you need. I also really love their client portal system where you can access and sign documents online. All of your financial information, health history, and appointment calendar is on this profile, as well as a message center where you can message the midwives with any questions or comments.

Q: Why do you love supporting moms and partners at this birth center?

A:  I love supporting families at Edenway because the staff there treats their clients with such dignity and love. It really is like family there and the care they provide is second to none. When I gave birth to my first child, I ended up transferring to the hospital in Cleburne to be induced. Rosetta and Kayce never judged us for our choice and never left my side. They truly care!!

Cleburne Edenway

Courtesy of Milk + Honey Birth Photography

If you would like to find out more about Edenway Birth Center or schedule a tour, visit www.edenwaybirthcenter.com.  

Katy Temple Birth Boot CampThanks so much to Katy Temple for sharing all about this supportive natural birth option in Cleburne!

Hi y’all! I’m Katy and I am a Birth Boot Camp Doula and Instructor in the Granbury, TX area! My husband and I are high school sweethearts with an adorable and hilarious 3 year old son and a 2 1/2 week old who was born at Edenway. We love camping, jeeping, Mexican food, and snow-cones! I love supporting families through pregnancy and birth and have a passion for educating and empowering couples to take charge of their pregnancy and birth. I service the Granbury, Cleburne, Weatherford, and west Fort Worth areas. You can follow me on Facebook and Instagram, or find out more about me and what I do on my website, granburybirthclass.com.

Photo courtesy of the very talented Milk + Honey Birth Photography.

Great Places to Give Birth in DFW: Fort Worth Birthing & Wellness Center

Fort Worth Birth Center

Choosing Where to Give Birth in DFW

With so many birth place options in the Dallas Fort Worth Metroplex, it can be hard to decide where to have your baby.  We have been featuring some of the most mother and baby friendly places to give birth in DFW to make it easier to find just the right hospital or birth center for you.  The birth center we are focusing on today is especially near and dear to my heart because these midwives attended the birth of my fourth baby.  Throughout my pregnancy I always felt that they supported my decisions and treated my family with compassion and respect.  I loved my birth with them and can’t wait to share them with you all!

Today’s article was written with local DFW childbirth educator & doula, Andrea Brannock, who is going to help us get to know Fort Worth Birthing & Wellness Center (FWBC) in Fort Worth, Texas and fill us in on what makes it such an wonderful place to have a baby.  

Fort Worth Birthing & Wellness

Eva Diana Photography

What Makes This Fort Worth Birth Center So Great

Q: Tell us about the atmosphere at FWBC.  What are the delivery rooms like?

A: I love walking into Fort Worth Birthing & Wellness Center.  You instantly feel that you’re in a place of love, peace, and calm.  The midwives and staff have done an amazing job of making it a place that is comfortable and welcoming. There are two large birthing suites, each styled differently. One has a glamorous feel, while the other one has a more rustic style. They both are very comfortable and home like with plenty of space in each room, including private bathrooms and kitchens. The birth suites are both upstairs and the prenatal rooms and family friendly waiting rooms are downstairs for privacy.

Q: Tell us about the providers who attend births there.

A: The midwives that attend the births at Fort Worth Birthing and Wellness center are all Certified Nurse Midwives, meaning that they were first nurses and then they received either a master’s or doctorate degree in nursing with a specialty in midwifery. This makes them unique because they can offer clients an out-of-hospital birth experience, while also having access to medication or antibiotics, if necessary.  Each of the four midwives really care about their clients. The midwives take the time needed to support, encourage, and love on their clients. I’ve seen them pray with families, if that is something the client wants, which to me really helps set a wonderful provider apart, giving them that extra touch of love.

Q: What are some of the best features they offer for moms and babies?

A: There are so many things that I love about FWBC and the wonderful things they offer. The midwives really understand the natural birth process and allow moms the time and space to labor as needed. They offer water birth as an option, on site ultrasound when medically indicated, and comprehensive family centered care. They encourage and support doulas attending the births, as well as birth photography/video. But really most of all, I just love the feeling you get while laboring and birthing at FWBC. They really do love and support their clients all the way through pregnancy, birth, and beyond.

Q: Why do you love supporting moms and partners at this birth center?

A: I really love the atmosphere that Fort Worth Birth Center gives. It’s so inviting and welcoming. The midwives are just fabulous. They give such wonderful care to their clients. You can see that they love their job and that they love supporting families.

Fort Worth Birth Center

Eva Diana Photography

If you would like to learn more about Fort Worth Birthing & Wellness Center or schedule a tour to meet these wonderful midwives, visit www.fwbirthcenter.com.

 

Birth Boot Camp Fort WorthThanks so much to Andrea Brannock for sharing all about this supportive natural birth option in Fort Worth!

Andrea serves the southern Fort Worth area, as well as Tarrant county. She is a Birth Boot Camp instructor, Birth Boot Camp Doula, Birth Boot Camp Instructor Trainer and Belly Binding Specialist. She LOVES what she does, especially supporting families and watching them grow. You can follow Andrea on her Facebook page or learn more about her services at www.adorebirthservices.com.

Great Places to Give Birth in DFW: Origins Birth & Wellness Collective

Origins Birth Center

Choosing Where to Give Birth in DFW

It’s not always easy to decide where to have your baby, especially with the many hospitals and birth centers we have throughout the Dallas/Fort Worth area.  This post is part of a series designed to help you narrow down your search and let you peek inside some of the most mother and baby friendly places to give birth in the metroplex.  I am especially excited to share with you about the birth center we are talking about today because these are the midwives who attended my own home birth 5 years ago.  It was an amazing experience that I absolutely cherish and I can’t wait to share them with you!

Today’s interview is with local DFW doula, Brooke Harralson, who is going to tell us about Origins Birth & Wellness Collective in Keller, Texas and what makes it such a great place to give birth.

Origins Birth Center

Entry at Origins 

What Makes Origins So Great

Q: Tell us about the atmosphere at Origins.  What are the delivery rooms like?

A: The atmosphere is best described as peaceful.  I’ve heard so many moms walk into Origins and say they felt such a peace instantly.  It is such a beautiful birth center.  They have two gorgeous private birthing suites.  One of my favorite things about them is that they have two completely different vibes. One brith suite is more serene and glamorous, while the other is more rustic and charming.  This is perfect so people can choose which room is the environment that fits their personality the best.  Throughout the birth center, all of the decor is perfectly picked out and heartfelt, down to the sweet baby footprints decorating the wall.

Q: Tell us about the providers who attend births there.

A: Origins is made up of 4 Certified Professional Midwives/Licensed Midwives. Kaitlyn, Gina, Angela, and Justine all bring something unique to the table and they are truly the perfect combination to serve their clients well.  They care about you on all fronts – emotionally, physically, and spiritually.  They are wonderful at meeting each mom where she is at and catering their care to make every birth a unique experience. They are very patient and very trusting in women and their abilities to birth.  Origins has also recently expanded to include a Dallas office as well, making births with their amazing midwifery team even more accessible.

Q: What are some of the best features they offer for moms and babies?  

A: Origins really has just about everything a client could want!  In office, they have birth photographers, chiropractor, massage therapist, and sonographer!  They are the perfect environment for a natural birth and they are vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) supportive as well.  They also welcome doulas at births and work hand in hand with them to give you a great birth experience.  They know so many different positions and ways to help you labor to help baby move in whatever way they need.  They welcome family and siblings in the birth space when that is desired and make it all around a very inclusive, welcoming experience.

Q: Why do you love supporting moms and partners at this birth center?

A: I love working births at Origins.  I know I can 100% trust the midwives.  I know they will keep mom and baby’s safety in the forefront and they will work hard for their clients to have a great birth experience.  They will stay with you even if you need to transfer to a hospital for any reason.  Their support is continuous.  They love their moms so well.  They take great care prenatally, in birth, and postpartum.  It is such an honor and joy anytime I get to work with these beloved midwives.

Origins Birth Center

Birthing Suite at Origins

If you would like to find out more about Origins Birth & Wellness Collective or schedule a tour, visit www.originsbirth.com.  

Keller Doula

A huge thanks to Brooke Harralson for sharing all about this amazing birth center in DFW!  

Brooke is a birth doula who supports clients throughout most of Tarrant and Denton Counties. Follow her on Facebook or Instagram, or you can learn more about her services at www.kellerdoula.com.

Great Places to Give Birth in DFW: Gentle Beginnings

Gentle Beginnings

Choosing Where to Give Birth in DFW

Deciding where to have your baby is a big deal and it’s worth it to shop around to find the right hospital or birth center. This post is the second in a series featuring some of the most mother and baby friendly places to give birth in the Dallas Fort Worth Metroplex.  

Today’s interview is with local DFW doula, Mandy Bohn, who is going to help us get to know Gentle Beginnings Birth & Wellness Center in Hurst, Texas.  It’s a special place!

 

Gentle Beginnings Birth Center

Birthing suite at Gentle Beginnings

What Makes Gentle Beginnings So Great

Q: Tell us about the atmosphere at Gentle Beginnings.  What are the delivery rooms like?

A: Birthing at Gentle Beginnings is like birthing at home with the added benefit of everything being provided and taken care of for you by their incredible team. The atmosphere is warm, welcoming and peaceful. They have a birth cottage separate from their office so you never have to worry about prenatal appointments interfering with your birth experience. The birth rooms each offer a comfortable queen sized bed and a labor/birth tub.

Q: Tell us about the providers who attend births there.

A: There are six midwives, one graduating student midwife and four student midwives. All the midwives are Certified Professional Midwives/Licenced Midwives. I absolutely love working with Gentle Beginnings midwives! They are all very nurturing, compassionate and kind.

Q: What are some of the best features they offer for moms and babies?  

A: So many things! All the midwives are supportive and experienced in caring for mothers having a vaginal birth after a cesarean (VBAC) throughout pregnancy and birth. They have a chiropractor working in their office two days a week. She can also come to a birth if necessary. There is a sonographer on site, as well as a licensed counselor. They encourage doula support and work very well with doulas. In prenatal visits the midwives spend 30min -1hr with their clients. If older siblings come to the appointment they include them in caring for the mother. The kids love it! There are many tools available to provide comfort measures throughout labor. They encourage a variety of birth positions and if mom chooses to birth in water, she may do so. Moms even get an IHOP breakfast in bed after the birth! Their team works hard after the baby arrives to clean up and prepare the room for a peaceful and joyful newborn exam where they include the whole family. Gentle Beginnings just has that special touch to make the birth experience one that is memorable and blissful.

Q: Why do you love supporting moms and partners at this birth center?

A: The care my clients receive at Gentle Beginnings is unlike anywhere else! I have personally birthed all 3 of my children at Gentle Beginnings and have always referred to their midwives as my dream team. They all go above and beyond to meet the needs and desires of their clients. Although Gentle Beginnings is not the only place I support my clients, it is one of my top picks and I easily call it my favorite.

If you would like to find out more about Gentle Beginnings or schedule a tour, visit www.gentlebeginnings.com.

Mandy Bohn Doula

Thanks so much to Mandy Bohn for sharing about this amazing birth option in DFW!

Mandy is a birth doula who supports clients in hospital, birth center, and home births throughout the DFW area. You can contact Mandy by phone at 817-694-5405 or by email at Mandybohn@ymail.com.

Great Places to Give Birth in DFW: Inanna Birth & Women’s Care

DFW Birth Center

Choosing Where to Give Birth in DFW

I have lived in enough cities to know that we are truly blessed to have so many wonderful labor & delivery hospitals and birth centers in the Dallas – Fort Worth Metroplex.  So much so, in fact, that the number of choices can be a bit overwhelming! So, I wanted to share a series of interviews that focus on getting to know some of the most mother and baby friendly places to give birth in DFW, in hopes of making the search for the right birth place just a little easier.

Today’s interview is with local DFW doula, Ashlyn Biedebach, and is all about Inanna Birth & Women’s Care in Denton, Texas.

Inanna Birth Center

Inanna Birth & Women’s Care in Denton, Texas

 What Makes Inanna Birth & Women’s Care So Great

Q: Tell us about the atmosphere at the birth center.  What are the delivery rooms like?

A: Located across from the beautiful TWU campus in a renovated home, Inanna is one of the coziest birth centers I have ever been to! The atmosphere is that of your own living room and kitchen without the mess! 😉 There are candles, diffusers and speakers readily available for the laboring women with showers and tubs also available for comfort. The beds are large enough to labor with your partner on, or take a nap with you baby after birth. Such a beautiful place!

Q: Tell us about the providers who attend births at Inanna.

A: There are currently two Midwives who work at Inanna, Jean Sala- Smith, CNM and Elaine Candeloro, CNM/ DNP. Jean opened the birthing center and has been a midwife for over 20 years! Elaine is in her second year of midwifery work and is such a great provider. I love working with Elaine and Jean! They are both so knowledgeable and compassionate.

Q: What are some of the best features they offer for moms and babies?

A: Inanna is the perfect birthing center for the mom who wants a home birth feel at someone else’s home! It truly is a home away from home and every comfort you may need is accessible. The kitchen and waiting area are perfect for family and friends or just to use during labor! Both birth rooms are unique in their own way, but each have a birth tub and bed for water or land births. You may eat, drink, walk, sway, dance or whatever your heart desires in labor! Sometimes if you are there in early labor, you may walk around the TWU campus for a change of scenery. It is really just a great place to be!

Q: Why do you love supporting moms and families at this birth center?

A: I love the freedom that this birth center offers women. You are allowed to trust your body and labor any way you would like, all while being supported by AMAZING midwives who are so experienced and friendly. Often when I am at a birth the entire team is offered tea and we all get to fight over who gets to use the Harry Potter mug. 🙂 It’s a great place!

If you would like to find out more about Inanna Birth & Women’s Care or to schedule a tour, visit www.inannabirth.com.

Ashlyn BiedebachBig thanks to Ashlyn Biedebach for sharing all the details about this wonderful DFW birth place option!

Ashlyn is a wife to her husband Jacob, graduate from the Nursing Program at Texas A&M University, and a new “Dentonite!” She has been in love with birth and the miraculous process of pregnancy since early high school and was sold on birth work after shadowing a local midwife and hearing her first in utero heartbeat. In nursing school she was able to attend many hospital births, but has always been drawn to the peace and power that mom driven labor & birth brings. Ashlyn is an RN with her Bachelor’s in Nursing and owns By The Brook Birth Doula and services the DFW metroplex! Ashlyn loves doing yoga on the Denton square, hanging out with her kitty, Lucy, and weekends with her husband.

You can follow Ashlyn on her Facebook page or Instagram.  To learn more about her services, check out her website at www.bythebrookbirthdoula.com.

50 Affirmations for an Amazing Birth

A great way to prepare for birth is by creating a list of encouraging thoughts, called affirmations, that you can dwell on before and during your birth.  Your thoughts impact your body’s ability to relax and focus during labor, so it is well worth your time now to prepare your mind for the kind of birth you hope to have. Birth affirmations have become popular with expecting moms and for good reason!

Negativity Isn’t Invited to Your Birth

The world is full of scary and dramatic stories about birth.  You see them on TV. You hear them from best friends, aunts, and neighbors.  Women want to tell their stories and they have every right to do so. But if you’re hoping for a peaceful, joyful birth experience, these are not helpful stories for you to hear.  

Think Happy Thoughts

When I was pregnant, I tried to protect my thought life by avoiding these negative stories.  Instead, I focused on filling my thoughts with truths I believed and hopes I held for my birth.  Affirmations were also useful reminders and focusing tools when labor got intense and I felt out of control.  Going into labor feeling peaceful and prepared made my birth so much easier. Because, yes, birth happens in your body, but it also happens majorly inside your head!  

Compile Your Favorite Affirmations

Today I’m sharing a list of affirmations that helped me.  It’s a great starting place; but birth is deeply personal.  So, it’s important to make the list your own. Read through the ones I have listed here and jot down ones you like.  Throw out ones that make you laugh or seem cheesy. Tweak them. If you’ve decided on your baby’s name, use it.  Use words and phrases that resonate with you and reflect your unique beliefs and values. Use affirmations to remind you of who you are and all you are capable of.

Ok, here they are, in no particular order-

Affirmations for an Amazing Birth:

  1. I am going to have a gentle, beautiful birth.
  2. My baby is safe.  I am safe.
  3. My breathing is deep and even.
  4. I let go of my fears and embrace the experience of birth.
  5. I rest patiently and let my baby come to me.
  6. I trust my instincts to know what I need for my labor.
  7. I am grateful to be giving birth to my child today.
  8. My body will give birth in its own time.  
  9. My baby and I are healthy and strong, ready for this birth.
  10. So many people love my baby already.
  11. I let go of any tension I’m holding in my face, hands, legs, and abdomen.
  12. I relax the space between my ears.
  13. I slowly breathe up with each surge.
  14. I blow my lips and loosen my jaw.
  15. I breathe my pelvis open.
  16. My body is both strong and soft, able to easily birth my baby.
  17. I make room for my baby coming down.
  18. My body is working to bring my baby to me.
  19. Labor will not last forever.  Soon she will be in my arms.
  20. I let it get heavier and give in to what my body is doing.
  21. This is for my baby.
  22. I blow away all my tension.
  23. Each contraction brings my baby closer to me.
  24. My cervix is soft and elastic, easily stretching for baby to come through.
  25. I visualize my cervix slowly opening to make way for my baby.
  26. I work with my baby.  Together we will find our way to each other.
  27. My cervix is melting over my baby’s head.
  28. I surrender fully to each wave.
  29. I do not fight the birth in any way.  
  30. I sway and soften more and more.
  31. My body is relaxed and limp.
  32. My job is to simply allow the birth to happen.
  33. My body has a wide open space for my baby to descend.
  34. I am soft, relaxed, and open.
  35. I open more with every breath.
  36. I completely melt with each new wave.
  37. Good strong contractions help my baby come to meet me.
  38. I am having a peaceful, healthy birth.
  39. I will breathe slowly and deeply to relax my muscles and bring oxygen to my baby.
  40. I let all that’s tight float away.
  41. I follow my intuition and give birth in the way I desire.
  42. I feel the strong waves of labor and know that everything is normal and progressing.
  43. I have patience. I have an open heart.
  44. I am surrounded with love and prayers from family and friends.
  45. Inhale peace, exhale tension.
  46. When it’s most uncomfortable, I am the most relaxed and at peace with the process of birth.
  47. The more intense it is, the closer I am to holding my daughter.
  48. Love compels me through each contraction.
  49. I am going to meet my son very soon, look into his eyes, hold his little hands, and kiss his face.
  50. This is the first day of an amazing new adventure with all the people I love.

Now Use Them

Once you’ve made your own list of affirmations, figure out how to soak up all your words.  Print them out and read over them before bed. Write them on notecards and stash them around your house, so you can be reminded to think positively about your birth throughout the day.  If you’re artistic, consider writing them on a banner or canvas to decorate your birth space. Journal through them, hang them up on your mirror so you can read them while you brush your teeth, or have someone read them to you during early labor.  There are so many helpful ways to use affirmations! Words can be empowering. I hope your affirmations encourage your heart and help you enjoy your birth!