When we talk about setting up your birth space, it’s not just about comfort—it’s about cultivating an environment that promotes oxytocin, the “love hormone” that plays a vital role in labor. Oxytocin is responsible for the progression of contractions and helps you feel more connected, calm, and powerful throughout your labor journey. It’s the hormone of bonding, trust, and relaxation, and it thrives in safe, soothing environments. So, let’s dive into how you can create a birth space that encourages the flow of oxytocin, allowing your body to work in harmony with the natural process of birth.

After you’ve brought your baby into the world, you might think the hard part is over. But in reality, your body still has one more job to do: deliver the placenta and control any bleeding that happens afterward. This is where postpartum Pitocin often comes into play. You might be wondering, why is Pitocin given after the baby is born? Or, what are your other options for managing this part of labor? Let’s dive into it so you can make an informed decision when it’s your time.

Birth is one of the most transformative, sacred, and awe-inspiring moments in life. It’s the day your baby enters the world, and in many ways, it’s the day you are also reborn—as a parent. As a birth photographer, I’ve had the honor of capturing countless moments that would otherwise be fleeting memories, and each time I’m reminded of the incredible value these photos hold.

If you’ve been on the fence about hiring a birth photographer, here are 8 compelling reasons why it’s a decision you’ll never regret:

At the beginning of August, I attended my 100th birth. A milestone that, in the days following, had me deeply reflecting on my journey through birth work and what it truly means to me. Reaching 100 births isn't just a number; it represents countless hours of holding space, bearing witness to the most intimate and transformative moments of people’s lives, and feeling every emotion from the joy to the pain, right alongside my clients. As I sit with these reflections, I realize more than ever that birth work is so much more than just a job, it’s a sacred path that I am endlessly honored to walk.

When we talk about childbirth, it’s easy to focus on the physical aspects—contractions, dilation, pushing—but what’s happening on a deeper level is a complex web of hormones that guide both you and your baby through the journey. These hormones aren’t just incidental players; they are crucial in facilitating the entire process, from the onset of labor to those tender first moments with your newborn. Understanding how these hormones work can empower you to create a birth environment that supports their natural flow, leading to a smoother, more positive, and more empowering birth experience.

In today’s birth culture, there’s a phrase that gets thrown around a lot: “All that matters is a healthy mom and baby.” While, of course, the health and safety of both mother and baby are paramount, this phrase oversimplifies the birth experience. Birth is not just about physical outcomes—it's about the emotional, mental, and spiritual journey that brings a new life into the world. How you feel during your birth, the trust you place in your body, and the ability to make informed, autonomous decisions are all crucial elements that contribute to a truly empowering birth.

When it comes to preparing for childbirth, one term that can stir up a lot of anxiety is "big baby." The thought of delivering a larger-than-average baby can trigger concerns about labor difficulties, the need for medical interventions, and potential risks during birth. However, it's crucial to understand where these concerns stem from and how much of them are truly based on accurate information versus systemic biases.

Bringing a new life into the world is one of the most profound and transformative experiences a person can go through. Whether you are a first-time parent or have been through the birthing process before, each pregnancy and birth is unique, bringing its own set of emotions, challenges, and joys. Amidst the excitement and anticipation, it's natural to have questions and seek support to ensure the best possible experience for both you and your baby. This is where the invaluable role of a doula comes into play. Let's explore what a doula is and how their support can significantly enhance your birthing journey.

As we celebrate World Breastfeeding Week, I want to take a moment to talk about the incredible journey of breastfeeding. Whether you're just starting out or looking for some extra support, this post is for you. Let's dive into the basics, benefits, and essential tips to help you succeed on this nourishing journey.

One delicious and effective way to prepare for labor is by incorporating dates into your diet. You might have heard the buzz about dates and labor preparation, but did you know there’s actual evidence to support it? Let's dive into the benefits of eating dates during pregnancy and why you should consider adding this easy date ball recipe to your snack routine!

Just like any VBAC birth story, mine really begins with a cesarean. My son, Finn, was born in March of 2021. One day I’ll share more about his story, but for now I’ll give you a condensed version — We found out he was breech at 35 weeks, I scheduled a cesarean for 39 weeks but hoped he would turn before then…

Today, we’re demystifying the oh-so-talked-about cervical exams, also called cervical checks or pelvic exams. Now, I know what you might be thinking - “Isn’t it just about measuring dilation?” - but hang tight, because there’s so much more to it! We’re taking a deeper dive to understand the beautiful intricacies of labor that empower us to make informed decisions…

Today I want to chat about something incredibly precious: the role of partners during the transformative journey of pregnancy and birth. Pregnancy isn't just about the person carrying the baby; it's an opportunity for both partners come together, and become stronger and more unified than ever before. Here are six ways partners can step up their game and be the ultimate support system through this amazing journey…

The anticipation of meeting your little one is building and you're almost at the finish line. Let's get to one of the exciting tasks of late pregnancy: packing your hospital bag! But what should go in there? What are the must-haves, the nice-to-haves, and the "oh-I-wish-I'd-thought-of-that" items that will make your hospital stay comfortable and stress-free? And when is the best time to pack your bag? Allow me to guide you through it with the Ultimate Hospital Bag Checklist.

Our brave mother this week, Emily Orcutt, had to face not only the journey into motherhood, but also an unexpected change in birth centers. Emily, a fellow doula, handled these challenges with such grace and courage. I can't wait to share with you her heartfelt journey that's all about surprises, adaptability, and unyielding strength…

As a certified childbirth educator and doula, I've encountered an extensive range of questions about childbirth. From detailed discussions about the stages of labor to deeper understanding about the supportive role of a doula, every question is unique and significant, much like every birth. This post will explore and clarify some of these key points and frequently asked questions, providing valuable insights whether you're a first-time parent or adding another child to your growing family.

Welcome to the kickoff of our new blog series dedicated to the real, raw, beautiful birth stories that rarely get told. I firmly believe in the power of storytelling - it's a time-honored way of passing down wisdom, fostering community, and connecting on a deeper level. In a world that often feels fast-paced and fragmented, these narratives can ground us and remind us of our shared human experiences…

Preparing for birth is so so important, but it’s equally important to prepare for what comes next. So today we’re going to dive into the rollercoaster that is the postpartum period, also known as your 'fourth trimester.' This time is all about healing, bonding, and navigating your new role as a parent. Whether your baby's grand entrance is via a vaginal birth or a cesarean, having the right postpartum essentials on hand can seriously make a huge difference!

A well-trained birth doula, with their specialized knowledge, nurturing demeanor, and empowering guidance, can become an invaluable partner in your childbirth journey. But how do you ensure you find the right doula for you? It begins with asking the right questions…

As the countdown to meeting your baby shortens and your pregnancy journey nears its pivotal moment of birth, a question might be lingering in your mind: What can I actively do to prepare my body for labor? This stage of anticipation can be…