Chandler, Arizona
Sweet Pea ​Births
Sweet Pea ​Births
...celebrating every swee​t pea their birth
...celebrating every swee​t pea their birth
Blog
Just Tell Me
| Posted on February 28, 2017 at 9:39 AM |
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I was reminded again yesterday how prevalent the stigma still is around the struggle after a baby is born: baby blues, postpartum depression, onset of anxiety in the postpartum period... The transition into motherhood is hard. The first child is pretty shocking, even if you have a good support system. Nothing can prepare you for the overwhelming emotion and experience of holding a helpless newborn, the blood that is dripping out of you for the next few weeks, and then learning to breastfeed on top of all that. It is doable, and people have been doing it for generations, so you know in your head it's possible...but your body is screaming WTF just happened here. On top of all this, is the pressure from society to pretend that nothing happened. Bounce out of bed with full make-up, pose for some pictures, host everyone who wants to come meet the baby, and fit into your pre-pregnancy clothes by the time the six-week check up comes around or you are a slug who just can't get it together. As you add Sweet Peas to your family, there is still an adjustment period. The love happens - you will have enough. The adjustment for me was learning how to manage the time and the house with 2+ children. A wise woman once told me, "Lower your expectations every time and you will do great." Another wise woman reminded me, "They are not all two at the same time." More on those topics another day...back to the topic at hand. An older woman asked me why I write about postpartum so much...her generation just got on with it. She asked me why this was such "a thing" for women of this day and age. My answer is I DON'T KNOW. Is it the food we are eating that doesn't support the hormonal shift as well as it used to? Is it that we know now that drinking and smoking are not the best stress relievers for mothers of newborns?Is it the pressure of social media to "fakebook" and we are speaking up to say, "not today"? Is is the age of the internet that allows us to gather information and know that we are not alone? I have no idea. My point today is, it is okay to ask for help if you need it. Maybe you don't need help. Maybe you had a satisfactory birth experience and your support network is amazing and enlightened and you are doing great. Yeah!! Bonus points for you. (and I don't believe you) There are also GOLD STARS waiting for you if you are able to say two of the hardest words, HELP ME. I just read an affirmation today that really sparked me along with running into some friends who reminded me just how important postpartum care is to families who are struggling: "It is healthy for me to say what I need and accept help". When your childbirth educator, doula, midwife or anyone else in your life you cares about you calls you and asks how you are doing, for your own sake, tell us the truth!! We expect to hear, "I'm fine!" "Things are great!" "All good!" What we are listening for are the in-betweens: the pauses, the crack in your voice, the tiredness as you speak. We have been there - we know it is hard - we know it's an adjustment, and we want to help you. We will try to find a way to see you if we are concerned. So just make it easier for us to help you - tell us without shame, because we have been there, too. Please tell the people who ask you and want to be there for you what you need. We will show up and we will support you in any way we can as you make the transition from maiden to mother. It is okay - you are still a great mom. |
Doula Services
| Posted on February 21, 2017 at 9:55 AM |
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 More and more people are thinking about using doulas or making space in their birth budget for doula care. Doulas are a great resource and can be a huge asset when it comes to preparing for the birth journey. My favorite analogy is that they are tour guides - they have been on the birth journey before and can point out the major landmarks and the subtle nuances. It's up to you to decide how to use that information to have your best possible birth given the circumstances.Here are some things we share with our students when they are thinking about hiring a doula: ONE SIZE DOES NOT FIT ALL Doulas comes in a huge variety - there is no one right way to be a good doula. Be sure to interview at least 2-3 so you can get a feel for their personality. Most are happy to do a preliminary phone interview. If that goes well, schedule an in-person meet and greet. We ask our students to consider if they can see themselves naked in front of the person they hire...because it may just happen and if it does, you don't want to have to think about it - you just want to be able to do whatever you need to do to birth your sweet pea. BASIC SERVICES Standard doula care typically includes 2-3 prenatal visits, assistance through your birth, and 1-2 postpartum visits. Prenatal visits last anywhere from 1-2 hours, give or take. They are intended to help you and your doula get on the same page about your birth wishes, offer some time for childbirth preparation, and also have time to talk through what your wishes are if things start to move away from your plan. Birth support typically includes being on call for you 24/7 from 2 weeks before to two weeks after your due date. Doulas will not typically take on clients if they have a vacation planned within that window - they want to be there for you and that four-week window is a commitment they make to be available when you need them. You will decide during your pre-natal visits when you will be calling them. Some families want support while they labor at home, others only want labor support at the birth place. If you are having a home birth, then you will want to talk to your doula about their communication with the rest of the birth team. Again, there is no right or wrong way to use a doula - you hire them to support you in the way that you want to be supported. A doula will be with you when you are ready for labor support and will stay with you until your baby is born. Typically they stay for 2-3 hours after the birth to make sure you are settled in your recovery space at home or at the hospital, to make sure you eat something and that breastfeeding is off to a good start. Doulas are not necessarily lactation consultants; most do have basic training to help a MotherBaby get a good latch for the first feeding. Postpartum visits typically happen within a day or two of your sweet pea's birth, and then maybe one more at a week or two weeks postpartum to review your birth story and answer any questions you may have about your birth. While birth doulas have a different scope of practice than postpartum doulas, some may offer to prepare food or do a load of laundry or clean a bathroom, etc., while they are there. ADD-ON SERVICES In this day and age, many doulas offer more than birth preparation and support. Here are some of the different services doulas may also offer: Prenatal massage Reiki Maternity photography Birth Photography Newborn Photography Placenta Encapsulation Belly Binding Postpartum Care Packages Herbal Teas + Tinctures IBCLC Lactation Services PRICING Doulas have a lot to consider when they set the fee for their service. They have spent hours and money on training. Some continue to take classes every year to stay sharp and hone their skills. If they have children, they have to arrange and sometimes pay for childcare. Some carry liability insurance and have fees associated with maintaining a personal website. If they also offer childbirth education there are yearly dues with their certifying organization. If they are an accredited doula, they also have their yearly dues with their doula organization. In other words, it isn't free to be a doula! Doula services start around $400 and in some areas of the country range up to $2000 for their basic packages (prenatal visits, birth support, postpartum visits). Fees may vary based on their experience and added services that can be factored into their fee for a "one-stop shop" experience. Even if you don't think you can afford a doula, think about what you can offer. They can work for trade, barter, or exchange of other services. Some do offer a sliding scale or scholarship when they can - it never hurts to ask. Those of us who love birth work and believe in supporting families so that all mothers and babies have the opportunity to birth peacefully will work with you. Do not ask a doula to work for free - as I outlined above, doulas really can't if they are working to support their family. Even if a doula is new and "training" she has already invested in her skills in order to better support you. THOUGHTS TO CONSIDER Hiring a doula is a personal decision. The person that your sister or best friend loved may be a lovely person. However, that does not necessarily make them the best person to help you along on your birth journey. Take a minute to think about what you think your ideal labor support person is going to be: hands-on, hands-off? In charge? More of a guide? Involve the husband as a partner? Keep in mind that although The Bradley Method® places the wife and husband as equal partners in the birth process, not all birth partners want that mantle of responsibility. If your birth partner is saying they are not sure or they absolutely do not want to be in the middle of the action, explore how that works for you. Your doula will help you create a space that welcomes your sweet pea. Trust your instinct about what is right for your family and make the best of the birth journey that you and your baby need. What do you look for in a doula? Disclaimer:
Birthing From Within and Bradley
Method® natural childbirth classes offered in Arizona: convenient to Chandler,
Tempe, Ahwatukee, Gilbert, Mesa, Scottsdale
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Q&A with SPB: Extended Family in the Birth Space
| Posted on February 7, 2017 at 6:42 AM |
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We continue on with our "Ask the Doula" series. Today my friend Darcy shares her thoughts on how a doula might handle family members in the birthing space: Here is a summary of Darcy's thoughts for you: Recognize that family may have been waiting for 9-10 months
sometimes longer Honor all family at a birth As a doula, I try to make myself small if there are a lot of people. I make the effort not to take up more space than I need to Roles: do you assign everyone in attendance something to do? That would be something to discuss with the couples during a prenatal visit with the doula. Ask: Who is coming? Prepare them for what is happening during the birth process
so that they can share them with the family Once the baby is out, everyone is very excited! Remind the family that even though the baby is here, it’s
not the end of the work for mom. Sometimes there is repair work that needs to be done. Give mom+partner power to say they need space or that people
are welcome. Goal: Empower the nuclear family It is so individual ~ every family is different There may be cultural elements to consider Every one has a good vision for what they want Tools to Be able to set up boundaries Good words: No – this is enough Or now is the time – you get this much time Empower moms to set up the boundaries they need for their
nuclear family THANK YOU, Darcy, for your time and your thoughtful answer <3 Connect with Darcy Newlin: Email: [email protected] Phone Number: 602-402-0855 Disclaimer:
Birthing From Within and Bradley
Method® natural childbirth classes offered in Arizona: convenient to Chandler,
Tempe, Ahwatukee, Gilbert, Mesa, Scottsdale
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Q&A with SPB: What is a doula's role at birth?
| Posted on February 1, 2017 at 8:08 AM |
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I am so excited to kick off our new VLOG series, "Ask the Doula". I will be inviting area doulas to come in and answer our reader questions so that you can get a feel for all the different things a doula can bring to your pregnancy, your birth space, and the support they offer throughout the childbearing year. I invited my friend and colleague Darcy Newlin to join me and answer our first question, "What is a doula's role at birth?" Here is a summary of her answer: Anything non-clinical It can be things like: Massage Maneuvers to help baby move into optimal position Keeping your partner hydrated and fed so that they have the energy to support you Comfort measures in labor: hip squeezes, rebozo techniques A doula's wide range of experience helps with the little things... Hospital or birth center: all of your belongings packed and ready to go Birthing at home : help get birth space set up, get team to
you A doula who has experienced birth herself and/or has attended many births can help by giving you a sense that what is happening is normal and that
you are safe. Although it’s intense and powerful, and you didn’t know you
had that inside your body, it’s you – you and your baby working together to be
born. She will assure you that while it is a sacred event, it’s normal and it’s safe.  Contact Darcy:
Email: [email protected] Phone/Text Number: 602-402-0855
Join me next week for another installment of ASK THE DOULA  Disclaimer: Birthing From Within and Bradley
Method® natural childbirth classes offered in Arizona: convenient to Chandler,
Tempe, Ahwatukee, Gilbert, Mesa, Scottsdale
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Q&A with SPB: DIY Padsicles
| Posted on January 17, 2017 at 6:27 AM |
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 Here is PART II of our VLOGS with guest doula, Michelle
Ludwig from Modern Mama Doula Services. Last week, she showed us her TOP 5 picks for postpartum. Today she is going to share her DIY tutorial for you to make
soothing postpartum “padsicles” right at home during pregnancy so that they are
ready for you when you are home holding your sweet pea! What you need: -Witch Hazel ~ we both really like the Humphrey’s brand –
available in regular or organic) -Maxi-pads ~ if you can find them, get some chemical-free and
bleach-free; usually available online -Cookie Sheet -Freezer Storage Bags How to: 1) Open up all the pads and leave them on the wrapper so
that they don’t stick to each other later 2) Lay them all out on your cookie sheet 3) Spray the witch hazel on to the pads until they are wet
BUT not dripping 4) Put the whole cookie tray into the freezer for about two hours 5) Once the witch hazel has frozen, take them back out of
the freezer and fold them back up for storage.
Place them in a freezer storage bag and back into the freezer while you
wait for your Sweet Pea to make their appearance. 6) Use them during the postpartum period on top of the large
postpartum pads you will receive in your birth kit or from the hospital. They will be a little chilly at first, but after the initial
freeze they will feel great on your bottom. I did ask Michelle what her experience was with other “add-ons”.
Some info out on the internet suggests using lavender essential oil or aloe
vera gel along with the witch hazel on the pads when you are preparing them. As Michelle so wisely answered, less is more. Witch hazel is
an extremely effective healing agent, and it would be a bummer to find out that
you are allergic to lavender or aloe vera when you are trying to heal from
birth, learning to breastfeed and figuring out your mothering. The witch hazel and pads are part of Michelle’s especially
prepared Bump Boxes. Along with the items
for padsicles, you will also receive some hand crafted postpartum essentials
that she makes herself. You can order Michelle’s specially
made with love package from her HERE Would you
like to interview Michelle as a doula? Please read her meet the doula feature
HERE Contact
Michelle: WEB http://www.modernmamadoula.com/ CELL OR TEXT 7204098977 EMAIL [email protected] Disclaimer:
Birthing From Within and Bradley
Method® natural childbirth classes offered in Arizona: convenient to Chandler,
Tempe, Ahwatukee, Gilbert, Mesa, Scottsdale
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Q&A with SPB: Postpartum Care Kit
| Posted on January 9, 2017 at 10:00 PM |
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 I am so
excited to feature Michelle Ludwig on the blog today! She is a birth doula and placenta
encapsulation specialist in the phoenix metro area.
In today’s
vlog, Michelle is sharing some ideas for postpartum self-care to help make the
early days of healing and breastfeeding a little smoother – every tip helps!
Here is a
recap for you:
1+2) Witch
hazel and some chlorine-free, bleach-free pads. You can use these to make “padsicles”, a cold compress that can be placed on top of the giant postpartum pads you will
get from the hospital, or your birth kit if you are birthing at a birth center
or at home. Stay tuned when we do our
diy share next week :) 3) Red
raspberry leaf tea – red raspberry is used as a uterine tonic and has long been
known to promote good uterine function.
It will help the uterus continue to contract as it heals and returns to
it’s pre-pregnancy size.
4) Herbal
soak – this is a special blend of herbs to promote healing. You can steep these
and use them in the peri-bottle to rinse after using the restroom. Another option is to use them in the a sitz-bath container or the bathtub. As Michelle mentions in the VLOG,
these herbal baths are an internet sensation now – many mamas are using them as
a setting for their pregnancy or postpartum photo shoots.
5) Nipple
cream – Michelle mixes up her own brand of wonderful using ingredients that are
safe for baby. You can apply and feed without having to wipe of your breast
first. A good nipple cream is an incredible relief to sore or chapped nipples
as you and your baby have your postpartum learning curve. Even if you have
breastfed before, there is a learning curve with each baby. And if you haven’t
been nursing through the pregnancy, your nipples will have to acclimate to
being used again. Even with a nursling through pregnancy, they typically don’t
feed with the same frequency as a newborn, so a little soothing is a welcome
relief.
You can order
Michelle’s specially made with love package whether or not you are her client.
Please check HERE for more details.
Would you
like to interview Michelle as a doula? Please read her meet the doula feature HERE Contact
Michelle: WEB http://www.modernmamadoula.com/ CELL OR TEXT 7204098977 EMAIL [email protected]
Disclaimer:
Birthing From Within and Bradley
Method® natural childbirth classes offered in Arizona: convenient to Chandler,
Tempe, Ahwatukee, Gilbert, Mesa, Scottsdale
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Meet the Doula: Ashley Anders
| Posted on October 7, 2016 at 10:36 AM |
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 Welcome to this month's installment of "Meet the Doula". This month I have the pleasure of introducing you to one of the Valley's postpartum doulas, Ashley Anders. I had the pleasure of meeting Ashley at an ICAN meeting last year, and I am happy to say we have kept in touch. She is honored to serve her families, and as such, Ashley is dedicated to furthering her own education so that she can better serve her clients. I hope you enjoy our feature with our October 2016 doula: Ashley! When was the first
time you heard the word, “doula”? I first heard the word doula years ago when I was talking
with a friend about supporting women in childbirth. How did you decide
that becoming a doula was part of your journey? Since I was little I wanted to be a Labor and Delivery
nurse, I loved supporting women and their families through one of the most
intimate times of their life, and watching them bring new lives into this
world, but quickly realized I didn't like the idea of having to leave my
patients to go to another patient, or leaving a shift before a baby was
born after being there her entire labor, or having to do all of the clinical
things. That is when I started researching to see if there was this
dream job out there of giving non-judgmental support to women and their
families before, during and after childbirth, and I came across birth and
postpartum doula! Are you a birth
and/or a postpartum doula? I am both a birth and postpartum doula, breastfeeding counselor
and newborn care specialist. Focusing most of my time
currently postpartum, breastfeeding and newborn care. How long have you
been a doula? I have been a doula just about 3 years. I am trained with
Childbirth International for birth, breastfeeding. I have also received
postpartum training, and trained with Newborn Care Solutions for my newborn
care specialist certification. I have supported single moms, moms on bed
rest, families that have a scheduled cesarean birth, unplanned cesarean
birth, teens, high risk, expected stillbirth, prematurity, twins and
triplets. What do you enjoy the
most about being a doula? For birth, I love that I am invited into the lives of
families expecting a baby. I love that I can build confidence in women
and their partners. Help them feel safe, protected and informed about the
birth experience and provide non judgmental support throughout their journey
into parenthood. For postpartum, I find that we often focus so much time
on pregnancy, and childbirth and forget that there is in fact a 4th
trimester. I enjoy helping everyone in the family transition into having
a new baby at home, if its baby #1 or baby #3. An extra set of hands to
help siblings adjust, help mom get a shower or a nap in, breastfeeding/bottle
feeding assistance, meal prep, and helping with all of the "is this
normal" questions I often get. Newborn care, infant brain
development, feeding, bathing, sleep conditioning, etc., are all things I love
to give information on to help clients make the best decisions for their
family! How do you work with
and involve the Coach? I make sure that we are working as a team. My job is never
to take the place of a partner or coach. I like to show and guide the
partners on things that they can do throughout labor to assist in the comfort
of the laboring mom, but also make them feel comfortable enough that they can
take a break, take a quick nap or grab something to eat and she will be
supported and never be left alone. What is the toughest
situation you have ever dealt with? How did you handle it? I would have to say that supporting a family through an
expected stillbirth was the toughest. She still had to give birth just
like any other laboring mother, but unfortunately had to say goodbye shortly
after her baby was born. It was hard! I cried alongside with them,
made sure that they had everything they needed and was just there for
them. The hospital was wonderful and provided the family with photos and
a box to remember him with. I joined them on the annual walk for infant
loss and continue to keep in touch with them. They were blessed with
their rainbow baby a year ago and I was honored to be by their side through the
birth of their second son. What keeps you
working as a doula? My family and my clients! I have the best :).
Hearing that I have found my calling, and that it is obvious that I love my job
and what I do, is so great to hear. I couldn't do this if I didn't have
the continued support from my husband. From day one he has supported me,
and pushed me to fulfill my dreams and I cant thank him enough! What does your fee
cover – how many visits or hours? Is there a different charge for a
shorter labor or longer labor? My birth fee includes 2 prenatal appointments where we will
discuss birth plan options, discuss postpartum care/plans and go over early
labor comfort measures. Your labor and birth, and up to 2 hours after, to
get you settled into your postpartum room, get you your first meal and make
sure that baby has had his/her first feeding. I will also schedule a time
within the first week to come and do a postpartum visit to talk through your
birth and make sure that feeding is going well and to answer any additional
questions you may have. Since birth is unpredictable there is not a different
charge if your labor were to go long or if you were to have a shorter
labor. Postpartum/Newborn care fees are hourly and I do
daytime and overnight care. Each contract can be fit to each client and
their needs. Do you offer any
other services to your clients? I offer breastfeeding support, it is included in my doula
packages, but I offer it separate if needed. Just for fun, what do
you do when you are not doula-ing? When I'm not doula-ing I'm sleeping! haha! I'm
also spending time with my husband and 2 kiddos: our daughter Tyler (11)
and our son Bennett (4), plus our 2 dogs Maddie and Oddie. We enjoy riding
bikes; mornings at the park, watching our daughter ride her horse, and just
spending quality time together with family and friends.  Love what you read?? Would you like to contact Ashley? Read more about Ashley and schedule a visit via DoulaMatch Phone: 480-457-9151 Email: [email protected] Disclaimer: The material included in this video is for informational
purposes only. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for
professional medical advice. The viewer should always consult her or his
healthcare provider to determine the appropriateness of the information for
their own situation. Krystyna and Bruss
Bowman and Bowman House, LLC accept no liability for the content of this site,
or for the consequences of any actions taken on the basis of the information provided. This blog and video contain information about
our classes available in Chandler, AZ and Payson, AZ and is not the official
website of The Bradley Method®. The views contained in this video and on our
blog do not necessarily reflect those of The Bradley Method® or the American
Academy of Husband-Coached Childbirth®. Sweet Pea Births offers Birthing From Within and Bradley Method® natural childbirth
classes offered in Arizona: convenient to Chandler, Tempe, Ahwatukee, Gilbert,
Mesa, Scottsdale, Payson |
UPDATE: Fundraising for Willow WIsh
| Posted on September 16, 2016 at 3:49 PM |
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 Please join us to celebrate the GRAND OPENING Willow Midwife Center for Birth+Wellness Saturday, September 17, 2016 10:30 am - 3:00 pm Suite 136 Mesa, AZ 85210 Here is a preview of the silent auction:  Little Boy Blue Basket: $300 Starting Bid: $50
 Sugar+Spice Basket: $300.00 Starting Bid: $75.00
 Modern Mommy Boutique Gift Basket - $150 Value Starting Bid: $40.00
 Postpartum Gift Basket – $150Starting Bid: $40 Offered by
Lindsay Lutes
 Birthing From Within Mentors Gift Basket -
$60.00 Starting Bid - $25.00
 The Bradley Method® Instructors of AZ Gift
Basket $65.00 Starting Bid - $25.00
 Babies R’Us Gift Basket - $65.00 Starting Bid - $25.00
 Sweet Pea Births Gift Basket– $80.00 Starting Bid - $25.00
 Golf Weekend - $500 Value Starting Bid: $125
Lactation Support Package - $180 Starting Bid: $45 Offered by Sarah Kankiewicz, CLE (Firefly Lactation Services)
Birth Journey Class - $200 Starting Bid: $50 Offered by Dianne Hamre (Doula Dianne) This
intensive one-day workshop will equip you with knowledge and skills that will
enhance your birth experience while making lasting memories. The ideal
time to take this workshop is in your 7th or 8th month of
pregnancy. CLASS
BENEFITS
Birth Doula Services - $500 Starting Bid: $125 Offered by Ashlee Witham (Essence Doula) Essence: the most significant element, quality or aspect of a
thing or a person. SUPPORT*RESPECT*EMPOWERMENT Ashlee Witham *Doula Services in PHX valley As your doula, I will support you during pregnancy and assist
you during childbirth and provide support to you and your family after birth of
your baby. Postpartum Doula Services - $240 Starting Bid: $60 8 Hours – Offered by Ashley Anders A postpartum doula provides evidenced based
information on things such as infant feeding, emotional and physical recovery
from birth, mother–baby bonding, infant soothing, and basic newborn care. A postpartum doula is there to help a new
family in those first days and weeks after bringing home a new baby. Research
shows that moms, dads and babies have an easier time with this transition if a
good support team is in place. In-Home Breastfeeding Consultation - $60 Starting Bid: $15 Offered by Sarah Kankiewicz, CLE (Firefly
Lactation Services) Labor+Birth Photography - $400
Starting Bid: $100 Offered by Rebecca Turrigiano (Loving Touch
Doulas) Being
passionate about all things birth related, I am excited to be able to
offer this service to both my doula clients and also families simply wanting to
capture this special time on film. I pride myself in knowing when to capture
these moments, and am happiest when my clients haven’t even realized that I was
even taking the shots I did! Having a background in fashion, film and T.V, I
bring a very unique prospective to your photos. The shots I capture also
respect the birthing Mom’s dignity and doesn’t feel intrusive during private
moments between partners. I am always honored to be invited into such a private
moment. Description
of Services
Naturopath Visit - $200 Starting Bid: $50 Offered by True Harmony Wellness Center Spa Gift Certificate - $80 Starting Bid: $20 Offered by True Harmony Wellness Center Mini Maternity Session - $175 Starting Bid: $45 Offered by Aimee Sugar Photography Essential Oil Introductory Kit - $35 Starting Bid: $10 Offered
by Aimee Sugar Starting Bid: $45 Offered by The
Pampered Belly Placenta
Encapsulation Placenta
Print Raw Belly Cast - $75 Starting Bid: $20 Offered by The
Pampered Belly  Magikarp Blanket - $75 Starting Bid: $20 Offered by
Hookin’ for Rent Some last minute additions - will have more info at tomorrow's event!! Photo Session – Starting Bid: Offered by
Rala Photography Nutrition Consultation – Starting Bid: Offered by
Baby Bloom Nutrition Therapy Session – Starting Bid: Offered by
OSS Physical Therapy I hope to see you at tomorrow's event. Come look for me upstairs - I will be at the silent auction sign-in table :) |
Meet the Doula: Ashley Wain
| Posted on September 4, 2016 at 10:51 AM |
comments (173)
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 This month I would like to introduce you to Ashley Wain. She supported one of our Spring 2016 clients and they gave her rave reviews! When was the first time you heard the word, “doula”? I was working at the Ritz Carlton and our Chef was telling me how his wife was training to be a Doula and Placenta Encapsulator. I was intrigued and had to learn more about it. He put me in touch with his wife and I attended a baby event where she was a vendor. How
did you decide that becoming a doula was part of your journey? After having my Doula
at the birth of my 2 child I realized how much a Doula lived and
breathed birth. Doulas love every minute of it and I wanted to see and learn
more about it from a different perspective. My Doula allowed me to apprentice
under her and attend a few births to see if this life was really for me. After
the first birth, I was hooked! My life and outlook changed entirely. I was in
complete awe of women and their strength. When you watch a woman endure the
pain and then birth her baby the way she wants to, you see a baby being born as
well as a woman being reborn. It is amazing to see how much empowerment birth
gives us as women and we are never the same after. Are
you a birth and/or a postpartum doula? I am a Birth doula. How
long have you been a doula?. 2 Years, I am trained
and certified through ProDoula What
do you enjoy the most about being a doula? I love teaching women
about their options and supporting women in the birth they want. It doesn’t
matter if they want a natural birth, medicated birth, home birth, or hospital
birth, I support them 100%. It is their birth and I am only there to serve them
and assist them to enjoy the best day of their life. What
is your philosophy when you go to a birth space? Calm and Peaceful will
keep the oxytocin flowing. Regardless of whether we are laboring at home or in
the hospital, having lights low, soft music, and low voices can help a woman
find her inner strength. How
do you work with and involve the Coach? Dads/partners play the
most important role. They are there because the woman loves them and feels safe
around them. When a woman feels safe she can relax and when she is relaxed her
contractions are more effective and she can dilate more efficiently. My job is
to ensure the partner is able to relax and support the woman to the best of
their abilities. I will help navigate when the best time is to apply comfort
measures, when distraction is best, and when quiet is best. I want my partners to
enjoy this day just as much as the mother, without pressure and without stress.
What
is the toughest situation you have ever dealt with? How did you handle
it? There have been many
tough situations and all are handled differently because “tough” situations are
situational. What may be tough for one mama may not be for another. My job is to
serve and honor every mother and I owe a lot of my success to getting to know
each client on a personal level so I can help her get through the tough
situations. Every birth is very different and no matter how much we read
textbooks and no matter how much we know about birth we don’t know anything
about a particular birth. Having good relationships with providers and nurses
is so important to the overall satisfaction for the client. Making sure we stay
within our labor support role and let the nurses and providers do their jobs to
keep mom and baby safe, there is nothing we can’t overcome. What
keeps you working as a doula? Every time my client
births her baby and has the smile that lights up the room. Every time my client
reflects on her birth with utter satisfaction. Every time my client writes a
review that makes me tear up, I realize how grateful I am to do what I do and
help women realize their full potential. Every time the partners/dads walk me
out and hug me and say “thank you” I know I am doing what I am supposed to be
doing. What
does your fee cover – how many visits or hours? Is there a different
charge for a shorter labor or longer labor?
As
of right now, there is no change in fee or doula based on the length of labor.
I want the mother to focus on her birth and not worry about time. Do
you offer any other services to your clients? I have two other
packages families can choose, I offer Placenta Encapsulation, I teach
childbirth, and I have a natural product line.
Just
for fun, what do you do when you are not doula-ing? We love playing super
heroes, chasing our babies around, swimming, traveling, and spending quality
time with my husband! Would you like more information about Love Bug Doula Care + Natural Essentials? Ashley
Wain Labor Support Specialist Phone – 480-489-2704 Email – [email protected] Website – www.lovebugdoula.com Facebook
– www.facebook.com/lovebugdoula Instagram
- @lovebugdoula You can also find
LoveBug Doula on Yelp and Google Disclaimer: The material included in this blog is for informational
purposes only. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for
professional medical advice. The reader should always consult her or his
healthcare provider to determine the appropriateness of the information for
their own situation. Krystyna and Bruss
Bowman and Bowman House, LLC accept no liability for the content of this site,
or for the consequences of any actions taken on the basis of the information provided. This blog and related videos contain information about
our classes available in Chandler, AZ and Payson, AZ and is not the official
website of The Bradley Method®. The views contained on our
blog do not necessarily reflect those of The Bradley Method® or the American
Academy of Husband-Coached Childbirth®. Bradley Method® natural childbirth classes offered in
Arizona: convenient to Chandler, Tempe, Ahwatukee, Gilbert, Mesa, Scottsdale,
Payson |
Meet the Doula: Kelly Sunshine
| Posted on August 8, 2016 at 5:49 PM |
comments (171)
|
This month's featured doula is Kelly Sunshine, of Sunshine Doula Services. We have had the pleasure of being vendors together at several different local birth events. It is our pleasure to introduce you to her this month in our Meet The Doula feature.  When was the first time you heard the word, “doula”? I don’t remember the first time I actually heard the word,
however, as my sister-in-laws and friends were having kids I would always go be
with them while they were in labor and help them. I had already had a few of my
kids so they thought I would be helpful. I was essentially being a doula
without realizing it. Then one day a little over 5 years ago, I meet a gal who
was a doula and the dots all connected for me. I remember thinking how I wish I
would have had a doula with me at my 4 births. How did you decide that becoming a doula was part of your journey? I’ve had a passion for labor and delivery for years. I
contemplated getting my nursing degree at one point. But the more I thought
about it I realized I really enjoy helping moms through the entire birth
process and building relationships. I had heard about doulaing before. Then
about 5 years ago I met a gal who had been a doula for a few years and I
learned a lot more about the profession. At that moment I knew that was exactly
what my heart had been wanting to do. My husband, who saw my enthusiasm,
strongly encouraged me to “do it”. Before I even had a chance to make a
decision, he had already enrolled me in a doula certification training that was
happening in Phoenix 2 weeks later. I’ve never looked back since then. Are you a birth and/or a postpartum doula? Birth. How long have you been a doula? I have been a doula for almost 5 years. I am DONA Certified.
I have been fortunate to have a very active career and have been blessed to
work with over 350 families since I started. What do you enjoy the most about being a doula? So many moms have a vision of what an ideal birth would be
like. I like to help them develop the confidence to trust in their bodies and
themselves. There is nothing more rewarding than to support a mama and for her
to realize how strong and awesome she really is. I also truly love the
relationships I form with the couples. What is your philosophy when you go to a birth space? Empowering moms with the philosophy of, “its their agenda
not mine”; and using my skills to create an optimalenvironment that they
envisioned. Also helping them stay on course with their plan even when they
don’t think they can do it anymore. How do you work with and involve the birth partner? This is very important to me. I am not there to take their
place but to work together to help support the mom. I adjust my involvement based on how
comfortable their coach is and how involved the coach wants to be. If I see
they are feeling uncomfortable or nervous I show them things they can do to
support the mom. Once they get a little confidence then they step up and want
to do more. It really cool to watch. What is the toughest situation you have ever dealt with? How did
you handle it? Believe it or not the mamas are pretty easy to deal with. By
the time we get to a birth we’ve made a pretty strong connection and I
generally know what they need. As soon as you bring the extended families in,
not the daddy’s or partners, it can sometimes get challenging. My most notable
situation was with very vocal and disruptive family members in the room. They
were creating a lot of tension and drama and I could see it was upsetting the
mom. In fact, despite her requesting them to leave the room they simply weren’t
respecting her. I stepped in and with kind firmness asked them to step
outside into the waiting area. I explained that I wanted to take some time to
help the her get more comfortable and focused. They understood and spent the
rest of the birth in the waiting area. What keeps you working as a doula? I suppose the best way I can describe it is that being a
doula is in my blood. I just love it. It’s challenging work. It keeps me on my
toes. Every birth has its own unique dynamic. And I guess I am pretty good at
it. Perhaps it’s my gifting and a way of serving the world. What does your fee cover – how many visits or hours? Is there a
different charge for a shorter labor or longer labor? My fee covers a prenatal visit which generally last an hour
to 90 minutes. It also includes unlimited pre-birth support by phone, email and
text leading up to labor. Obviously I am with the family from the beginning of
active labor through approximately a couple hours after birth to help the mom
and baby get comfortable, and establish nursing if that is their desire. I also take photos of the entire labor, birth and after. I provide the family with the edited digital
copies, as well as a printed 4x6 set. I also write the family a birth story and
then meet them for a postpartum visit as well. My fee is the same regardless of
the length of the labor. Do you offer any other services to your clients? Yes. I do placenta encapsulation and have processed over 650
placentas. I also have some other pre- and post-birth products that are
designed to help moms prepare for labor and heal following the birth. Just for fun, what do you do when you are not doula-ing? Well being a doula occupies a good portion of my life. When
I am not doulaing, I love to travel with my husband and do family vacations
with our four kids. We entertain at our home frequently with family and friends,
which I love to do!  Would you like to Connect with our featured doula? Here is her contact information: Kelly Sunshine 602-410-5968 Disclaimer: The material included in this blog is for informational
purposes only. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for
professional medical advice. The reader should always consult her or his
healthcare provider to determine the appropriateness of the information for
their own situation. Krystyna and Bruss
Bowman and Bowman House, LLC accept no liability for the content of this site,
or for the consequences of any actions taken on the basis of the information provided. This blog and related videos contain information about
our classes available in Chandler, AZ and Payson, AZ and is not the official
website of The Bradley Method®. The views contained in this video and on our
blog do not necessarily reflect those of The Bradley Method® or the American
Academy of Husband-Coached Childbirth®.  |