Disclaimer: my Hypnobabies instructor friends may very well kick my butt for writing this post, so if you are a Hypnobabies student envisioning your easy, comfortable birth, maybe skip this post until after you’ve birthed your babe and head over to watch my positive birth video selection instead. I don’t want to be blamed for hypnotizing you into associating childbirth… Read more →
Umbilical Cord Burning: Everything you ever wanted to know
It’s common practice in our culture to have the partner cut the umbilical cord, playing a symbolic role in the birth by facilitating the final step in separating the baby from the placenta and welcoming him or her into the world as a new life, a new person. The cutting-of-the-cord ritual is often completed so rapidly that it’s hard to… Read more →
What Louis CK can teach us about natural childbirth
I spotted this Louis CK clip making the rounds a while ago, and thought to myself, “this clip is about cell phone use, but it actually can teach us a LOT about the experience of childbirth!” Stick with me here, I know I’m making a leap. Watch the whole clip below and then keep reading: Louis makes some… Read more →
Doulas: The Work of Falling in Love
To fall in love. Not every “job” do you get to stare deep into another woman’s eyes, her staring back almost inside you. Hands tightly gripped. Her need and want for you. Watching her transform into a mother as she works through blocks and leaps hurdles. How could you not fall in love. ~Michelle Maclean, Birth Doula How many… Read more →
Resources for Research & Guidelines
Because I’m an information junkie and an occasional insomniac with a background in university-level science, I often am pouring over birth-related research. I also am constantly referencing the guidelines from the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists and Perinatal Services BC. I believe birthing women should have access to this information so they are able to make informed choices. I also strongly encourage… Read more →