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:

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.

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.

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.

Let's dive into the incredible world of oxytocin and its role in the birthing process. Whether you're planning a natural birth or simply curious about the wonders of our bodies, understanding the importance of natural oxytocin versus synthetic Pitocin is key…

I would like to preface this post by saying that I don’t hate hospitals. In fact, I love that we have hospitals and access to modern medicine! We are so so fortunate for that. What I don’t love, is the current approach to birth in the American hospital systems…