40 weeks . . .

Posted on January 22, 2013 by birthsmart

I am so thrilled for two of the very nicest people I know to be having their first baby very soon.  I wanted to share this lovely poem she wrote.  She is waiting to meet her little one any day.  I am so impressed, not only by her reflective nature, but how she was able to put her thoughts down so beautifully.  Wishing them peace and a wonderful birth experience.

40 weeks

Thank you God for the last 40 weeks of my life,
Thank you for allowing life to grow within.

Thank you for entrusting me with this great big responsibility,
To take care of your precious gift.

I pray for strength and courage,
To be the Godly mother you desire of me.

Thank you for the joy that awaits,
I can only imagine how wondrous it will be.

In just any day, I will know,
First hand experience, the kind of love You feel for us.

The journey hasn’t been easy,
But despite all the ashes, you created beauty.

My heart will be brave,
To accept the very blessings you are giving.

Thank you for allowing me to know love at first sight,
When I looked into the eyes of this baby’s father, Mark.

I know I will fall head over heels again,
When I hold that precious bundle of joy in my arms.

Thank you God for last 40 weeks of a heart beat,
So that I may love even more deeply, for the rest of my life.

Mommy to be,
Suwanee

Join us on Twitter

Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a comment

Essential Oils for Pregnancy/Birth Teleconference Recording (with special offers)

Posted on October 12, 2012 by birthsmart

My blogging here has been sporadic that past several months at best as I’ve been navigating my family, doula clients, military life, and other passions, pursuits and responsibilities, but rest assured, I am still very focused on the empowerment of pregnant women and families. 

Finding my own power through my birth experiences was transformative and it has always been a joy to witness women having similar experiences and support them as they navigate their own path.

Over the past two years, I have found additional empowerment through extensive training and use of certified pure therapeutic grade essential oils.  While my initial interest in essential oils was to support my doula clients (and they have been amazing for that), I have been shocked at how they have changed my life personally.  We currently use essential oils (50-70xs more powerful than dried herbs) daily for everything from stress and mood management, to cold and flu viruses (yes-they can cross the cell wall, unlike most antibiotics), skin tags, pink eye, sleep issues, and digestive problems (the list goes on . . .).  

 You can listen to the recording here if you missed it, or want to listen to it again.  We talked about how to manage pregnancy discomforts like mourning sickness and heartburn naturally, create a physically and emotionally supportive birth environment, prevent many health issues/complications during/after the birth, and use 100% pure and natural essential oils to care for your baby (issues like jaundice and diaper rash) and your self (milk supply and mastitis) during the post partum stage.   

I would love to hear what you thought of the class and any questions you have – feel free to email me; you just may be the inspiration for our next session! 

Interested in the $50 in free essential oils I mentioned on the call?  This special offer is for anyone interested in creating a NEW wholesale membership with dōTERRA essential oils. ~ (Sorry, not for those of us who already use them :( . . . ).  If you purchase any IPC enrollment package (or pay the $35 membership and select any combination of products ~ must be over 100 wholesale dollars of product, not including membership fee), you will automatically qualify for this promotion from dōTERRA.  Hurry because this is a limited-time offer!   

If you are ready to shop, go here, where you can purchase retail or join as a new member to take advantage of this special $50 credit offer (below on the left – select ‘sign up’ and ‘independent product consultant’).

Do you want a copy of the book by midwife/essential oil expert, Stephanie Fritz?  Those who choose to enroll as new members this month will have the opportunity for an additional special offer!  If you try out the OPTIONAL loyalty rewards program by making a 100 pv purchase in November, I will personally send you a free copy of “Essential Oils for Pregnancy, Birth, and Babies” by Midwife Stephanie Fritz (must create new membership through my link above) as well as some bonus information/materials. 

Ready to learn more?  As I mentioned on the call, this session was just one of several educational calls in our series – you can listen to archived sessions through the following links:
Makeover your Medicine Cabinet, Cleaning Naturally with Essential Oils, Back to School with Essential Oils, and Emotional and Physcial Health.
Make sure you subscribe to my email list at www.takecontrolnaturally.com to be notified of future events (and receive a free ebook).

Not sure what your next step should be?  I know that stepping into the world of essential oils can be confusing at times, but my team and I are here to support you every step of the way and make sure you get all your questions answered.  I am happy to offer a free private consultation via phone or skype to answer your questions, help you understand all your options, and walk you through the process of purchasing the essential oils that best suit your needs.  So excited to have you join us on this empowering journey!  Please email me with your contact info and availability to reqest a session.

Passionate about natural health and empowering others?  My dōTERRA business has been a great compliment to my childbirth business as an additional stream of income (providing a stable, residual income when my ‘traditional’ business income fluctuates).  I am thrilled to help others experience the essential oils produced by a company with integrity and see real results in their lives.  As someone with 7 years of college education and additional certifications, I never anticipated (over my dead body) working in direct sales, but dōTERRA is truly different and a partner I am proud to affiliate with (with a retention rate 3xs the national average, sales tripling each year since inception, and achieving the feat of becomgin the largest essential oil company in the world in less than 5 years).  Whether you are looking to change your health, your finances, or both, I’d love to help show you what dōTERRA is all about.

Join us on Twitter

Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a comment

Medicine Cabinet Makeover/Win a free bottle of Essential Oil – this Thursday

Posted on May 11, 2012 by birthsmart

Have you ever been frustrated by the health care system? 

Do you worry about side-effects from various over-the-counter and prescription drugs?

Do you want to reduce the time and money you spend seeking medical care? 

If so, you may be ready to “Makeover your Medicine Cabinet” with Certified Pure Therapuetic Grade Essential Oils. 

Join me on a FREE teleconference from 10:00-11:00am CENTRAL time on Thursday, May 17th.  All you need to do to participate is call (712)432-0900 and enter access code 734483 at the designated time.  I am planning for a 45 minute presentation, (you will be muted, so don’t worry about any background noise), an opportunity for questions, and a drawing for a free 15ml bottle of doTERRA LIME essential oil (perfect for summer).  So excited to share this with you!  The call will be recorded and accessible online (for those unable to call in), but the drawing will ONLY be available to those live on the call.        

I have experienced an amazing shift over the past 18 months as I’ve “Made over my medicine cabinet”.  Our family has drastically reduced our need for doctor’s visits and both over-the-counter and prescription drugs.  I can’t wait to teach you how to do the same.  Until then, you can hear my essential oil story and request my free ebook here.

Join us on Twitter

Posted in essential oils | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

Dare, Dream, Do . . . available now

Posted on May 8, 2012 by birthsmart

Today “Dare, Dream Do. Remarkable Things Happen when you Dare to Dream” by Whitney Johnson is being released.  I am axiously awaiting my copy and excited to renew the passion and purpose connected with my own dreams and life’s work. 

Ms. Johnson is an amazing role model for women, who “In her mid-twenties . . .  found herself in New York, where she landed a secretarial job on Wall Street. With no relevant experience, and a bit shy on confidence, she contemplated her future and her dreams. Through determination and hard work, Whitney became an investment banker, moving to the analyst side of the business, executing the plans she’d laid out for herself. Naively, she thought most women were following similar paths until she started talking and found that many women were not daring to dream at all.” 

She has spent the last several years inspiring women to indentify and pursue their dreams.  She featured my story on her blog in 2010 and has given voice to many other women who were pursuing all different types of amazing dreams.  Connecting to the passion of a purpose-driven life can create results that change our world (personally and collectively).  Sometimes, as women, we can’t remember what our dreams might be.  Sometimes we feel inspired but lack the tools to know how best to work toward our dreams.  “In this inspiring book, Johnson directs her attention to teaching women, in particular, a three-step model for personal advancement and happiness.”    

I share this here because I think many in the birth community have dreams of working together to create a culture that offers greater support and respect to birthing women.  I also feel that, as women becoming mothers, even though our dreams may alter somewhat, it’s important not to let go of them entirely. They represent a part of who we are, and our children deserve the opportunity to really know us. 

You can find “Dare, Dream, Do” on amazon.com.

Join us on Twitter

Posted in books | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

World Doula Week!

Posted on March 21, 2012 by birthsmart

This week is world doula week and I am thrilled to celebrate all those who take on this calling to provide support to women around the time of childbirth.  Being a part of this community, I’ve gotten to know many doulas – we all share many things in common, but also bring our own unique perspectives to the work.  I thought it would be fun to collect the voices of several doulas in response to the question, “what does it mean to be a doula?”  Special thanks to all who contributed.

“There are strength in numbers. Being a doula, to me, means to empower the mom with added strength by being beside her in the defining moment of her life – Childbirth.” – Lynette Kendall

“Empowering families to be a part of their birth and the decisions that sometimes need to be made. Reassuring them they have a voice and they will be heard. Helping families have the births they chose, no matter how I feel about it.” Jennifer Wayne Penick

“I see my role as two sided: 1) offer steady emotional support so they can have a safe space to do what they need to do when they need to do it and 2) Knowledge is power — I seek to educate, not opinionate.” -Naomi Thomas

“Prenatally – educating and empowering families so they are prepared in body, mind, heart, and soul to give birth in whatever way they envision for themselves.  Perinatally – being fully present and providing whatever kind of support is needed for labor to progress to the next moment and the next moment and the next – for me, as a doula, birth is a breakthrough meditation with a miracle at the end.  Postnatally – providing education, resources, and encouragement to a new family as they grow and land into themselves.”  -Ann Lipofsky

“Empowering, educating and enlightening birthing women by being invited to share one of the most sacred times in their lives is indescribable. It is an honour, a privilege and a blessing to me as a Doula to witness miracles as they are born, and to bask in the glow of new life as he or she is seeing, and being seen, for the first time!” -Pamela Hyde Soltesz

“For me, being a doula means being able to awaken the mother inside of a single teenager and to see how that translates into a peaceful, content baby who KNOWS his mother!” -Jacqueline Brock Julie

“For me, being a doula means being there for someone (a family) so that they don’t feel alone. It means being a part of the science and magic behind birth and love. It means I get to help encourage people in their abilities and to be in more control/ aware of their health care.” -Priscilla Fairall

“Being a doula to me means empowering, educating, and supporting a woman in the most beautiful moments of her life. It is about reminding her that she CAN and WILL, and then later, reminding her that she DID!” -MaryBeth Slabbert

photo by Sujin Jetkasettakorn

Join us on Twitter

Posted in doulas | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

March Special – $50 Off to YOU Creating Your Ideal Birth

Posted on March 13, 2012 by birthsmart

My favorite part of being a childbirth professional is getting to know and working with so many unique and strong women – watching them transition into motherhood (whether for the first time or into a mom of “more”). 

Because of family circumstances, I am limiting my services for on-call doula clients and increasing the time I spend supporting women in childbirth preparation.  To celebrate this shift, I am offering a special package to my next 4 clients.  I would love for YOU to be one of them.  Here’s the deal . . .

  • You will Receive the “Best Start for Your Birth Package” (3 part audio series + copy of the comprehensive “Pregnancy, Childbirth, and the Newborn” by Penny Simkin)
  • 2 Private pregnancy coaching calls with me (60 minutes each) to discuss your unique situation, create your birth plan, work through emotional issues related to your upcoming birth, answer questions or whatever we can discuss to best meet your needs . . . .
  • 2 Bonus follow up emails with notes/recommendations based on each call

This is a $139+ value (But I have been told it was invaluable) and I will offer it to my next four clients for only $89!  Email me at cindy@birth-smart.com to reserve your spot (sign up in March, but we can schedule our sessions according to your needs over the next few months). 

Whether you are a first time mom wanting a little more personal attention or a 2nd+ time mom wanting a refresher or a different experience than last time, I would love to support you in navigating the sea of information and honing in on what YOU need to create the birth experience YOU are looking for. 

Can’t wait to hear from you soon!

photo by duron123

Join us on Twitter

Posted in doulas, prepare your mind | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

A Doula’s role: Giving Information vs. Giving Advice

Posted on March 5, 2012 by birthsmart

I am so pleased to share this guest post from doula Jessica Martin, who discusses the distinction she makes between providing information and ‘giving advice’ as she supports her clients.  It provides excellent food for thought about the role of a doula.  What/how much information should a doula provide?  Is it ever appropriate to give advice to clients?  How can we support women to be autonomous?      

When we are working with a woman, our role is not to give advice, it is to empower her to make her own choice. We have many resources we can share with her, but we are not there to tell her she should do one thing or another. If a woman listens to our information and chooses something that we disagree with or that will likely increase her chances of an undesired outcome, it is not our place to say, “I wouldn’t do that if I were you.” We are there to back her up; to help her feel strong in her choices, not to cause her to second guess them.

My sister, a paramedic, recently gave birth and choose not to learn about labour or birth because she felt that the nurses at the hospital would know how to help her get her baby out naturally. In the end her baby was born by C-section and she had some of the related problems regarding difficulty bonding and breastfeeding. (This may or may not have been different had she done more personal preparation.) That said, it was her path to put her faith in the medical system and experience its benefits and drawbacks. I offered beforehand to share with her some things that I thought were important to know about birth and she declined. I let her know that there was good information out there and she chose not to pursue it, which was the right choice for her at the time. I supported her by listening when she had something to share with me and by not forcing information on her.

Another, more subtle, example is from a birth I attended last month where the mom, my best friend, wanted to aim to avoid pain medication but also wanted to leave the option open in case she changed her mind. When she was considering an epidural at one point in her labour, I felt a twinge of failure thinking that she might get one. I felt like if I were providing her adequate support she wouldn’t need one. The self-reflective process tells me that I was pretty invested in her having the sort of birth that I thought she should have. It was hard, but also felt very right, to let that attachment go and just be there to support her the way she needed so that she knew that she could do it!

In both of these cases, it doesn’t matter at all what my own beliefs were, what choices I would have made in their shoes or whether or not I agreed with what these two women wanted or chose. My role was to provide information (even just that information is out there, in the case of my sister), and not advice. It is so important for us to remember this and to be very aware of how we act in situations where we are uncomfortable to any degree with a client’s choice. This is when we may make a comment that subtly (or overtly) conveys our disapproval, something the mother does not need. We are there to inform and support her, not to guide her choices. Whatever choice she makes is the right one for her. Even if later she thinks she would have preferred something different, at the time it was the right choice for her to make and the right thing for us to support.

On my business card it says, “Support for empowered birthing.” In the end, my client will feel more empowered if I give her information and support for her to find her own voice and make the choices she wants to make (and has the right to make) than if I tell her what sort of birth (I think) she should have. If I force my belief on her (about natural childbirth, vaginal delivery, etc), however subtly I do it, I am no different from the type of medical staff who do the same thing only in the direction of medical intervention.

Jessica is a birth doula in Guelph, Ontario. She also practices yoga and Buddhist meditation.  She can be contacted at jessica.birthdoula@gmail.com.

photo by Rosen Georgiev

Join us on Twitter

Posted in doulas | Tagged , , , | 2 Comments

All Natural Baby Wipes/Sanitizing Wipes

Posted on December 16, 2011 by birthsmart

I love these two recipes for Wipes contributed by Heather Gunnerson.

Baby Wipes

These are made with the oils I love to use for diaper rash anyway, so I’m sure it could be very preventative. Probably less expensive than traditional wipes (and, of course, much healthier).

take a roll of select a size bounty (works best)
cut in half with serrated knife.
put in a large container.
mix:

2 cups warm water,

2 tbs virgin coconut oil (should melt in the warm water),

3 drops lavender essential oil,

3 drops melaleuca essential oil.

pour over paper towels and cover.  pull out middle cardboard core and then pull wipes from the middle.

Sanitizing Wipes

Same as above, except substitute the oils for

3 drops **On Guard,

3 drops Lemon

“I use them just like you would clorox wipes… the only difference is that
even my little kids can wipe door knobs, walls, light switches etc… and i
am not afraid of them getting chemicals on them.  they also work great for
hand sanitizing.”

**On Guard is a doTERRA blend that contains Cinnamon, Clove Bud, Eucalyptus, Rosemary, and Wild Orange and has been proven to kill a wide variety of harmful viruses and bacteria . . . from influenza to MRSA.

photo by CapemayL

Join us on Twitter

Posted in essential oils, newborns | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

Skin-to-skin becomes hospital policy. . . (changing the world through the internet)

Posted on December 9, 2011 by birthsmart

How can we share the benefits of skin-to-skin contact with new moms?

This is a topic I feel very strongly about.  It is very important, regardless of a woman’s birth preferences or other interventions.  I have blogged about it and shared it with many women, but I can admit that my reach is limited.

So I was very pleased to notice that recently . . . one of our local hospital/birth centers (Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, KS) started providing these handouts in the room of EVERY laboring woman.    

I am a fan.

I like that they are being shared with EVERY laboring woman (and every staff member). 

I hope that each of you are giving birth in an environment that embraces the practice of immediate skin-to-skin contact for newborns.  If you are not, I invite you to consider whether changing to a more baby-friendly birth place is possible for you.  Regardless, I hope that this information (and they fact that some institutions are embracing this evidence-based concept) will help build your confidence to lovingly REQUIRE this as part of your birth experience – even if it’s contrary to the policies of your birth place.

You can be agents of change through your choices.

What about skin-to-skin following cesarean birth?

I love the opportunities the internet gives us to share this type of information.  I recently reposted an article about (the revolutionary practice of) immediate skin-to-skin contact following cesarean sections and was surprised, yet thrilled to see a comment from a doula in Denver reporting that this is now hospital policy in one of their local hospitals.  Thanks so much Ann!!!

Just knowing what’s going on elsewhere can help us to start a dialogue about these important topics.  Policies, routines, and procedures change, and if we are confident and proactive, we can demand best-practices for ourselves, even when our birth place hasn’t caught up with research yet.

Join us on Twitter

Posted in breastfeeding, cesarean, doulas, newborns, postpartum | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

Second Time’s a Charm

Posted on December 1, 2011 by birthsmart

Several month ago, I had an interview with a mom who was seeking a doula . . .  She described a very difficult experience with the birth and recovery of her first baby.  Her primary concerns were:  1) not feeling listened to/collaborated with during her care, 2) being induced, 3) having the baby taken from her at birth, and 4) having a very long, difficult recovery. 

She worked really hard during pregnancy to educate herself and understand her options.  She made the *easy* choice to hire me and the *difficult* choice to change providers mid-pregnancy.  She used several strategies to try and prevent the above situations from occurring again, and fortunately her preparation paid off.  Just over two weeks ago, she gave birth and I am so happy to report that none of those 4 issues were repeated in her recent experience.  She said that the birth was 100 times better, she is recovering better than she imgained possible, and she is transitioning smoothly to life with baby #2. 

Here are a few photos from her birth (shared with permission) . . .

Dad helping catch the baby

Grandma and grandpa getting their first look at baby girl

Super strong push-up performing baby at home on mom’s chest.  She stayed there a long time :)

Join us on Twitter

Posted in doulas, newborns, prepare your body, prepare your mind | Leave a comment

Week of Winners!

Posted on November 19, 2011 by birthsmart

We had so much fun with our week of giveaways. In case you missed the announcements on the FB feed, here are the results:

Giveaway #1 – Shantal Laulu
Giveaway #2 – Mandy Crosby
Giveaway #3 – S. Russell
Giveaway #4 – Erin Leigh
Giveaway #5 – Angela Zimmerman

If you haven’t claimed your prize, you have until November 24th!!!! Please email me at cindy@birth-smart.com to do so.

Thanks for playing!

Join us on Twitter

Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a comment

Notes for the NICU

Posted on November 14, 2011 by birthsmart
I have some friends.  “Friends” doesn’t quite seem the right word.
When you are in the military and get lucky enough to have back-to-back assignments (the first overseas) with close friends, they start to feel a little more like family.
We have been through a lot together.  They have been there for some of our best and worst times.  I have known them since before they were even a couple, as they began to create their family.  I helped to support them through both pregnancies and births.
On November 2nd, they found out that baby #2 was a girl.  She was born at almost 41 weeks at 8 lbs and started life in a simple, beautiful way.  Around day 5, hormones that the mama’s body produced during pregnancy wore off and a serious heart condition was revealed in the baby.   Baby girl was flown several states away to one of the best hospitals in the country for heart surgery.  Dad, Mom, and 2 year old big sister drove to meet her.  Her first surgery is tomorrow. 
There are so many thoughts and feelings I’ve been experiencing through this situation.  Being remote from them, I am limited in the support I can provide.  I also don’t have direct experience with NICU situations. 
What do you think are the best ways to support NICU families?
I can’t help but be amazed at the presence of mind my friends have demonstrated.  They have had to make several difficult choices about how to proceed with her care and as I observed those decisions materializing, I have been so grateful to see them feeling confident with the choices they have made.  I am grateful that they followed their intuition and took her in when they did.  Though they worked hard to avoid interventions and have a ‘natural’ birth, they were wise enough to seek medical care when it was necessary.
We have all been shocked to learn how necessary it is.
I am also grateful that baby girl was full term and established breastfeeding, so thankful that her body (aside from her heart) is strong and healthy.  I am grateful for the reminder of what a privilege it is to be able to hold our children in our arms.  I am grateful to be reminded that we don’t know what is coming tomorrow, so it behooves us to live today ‘on purpose’.  We are all blessed with the gift of life. 
What are we doing with it? 
On a personal note, I believe.  I believe in a God who is the father of all people – who hears the prayers of all his children.  I don’t technically share the same faith with my friends – and I know that there are many, many of various denominations who are currently united in prayer for them.  I think that is powerful.  I believe in miracles.  And I believe in my friends.  Even in the midst of everything, they speak of what they are grateful for.  I think that sometimes these experiences we would NEVER wish for can teach us things we couldn’t learn another way. 
Sending all my love to my favorite baby girl . . .

photo by phanlop88

Join us on Twitter

Posted in natural birth, newborns | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

Giveaway #5 – Natural Childbirth: Pain Optional?

Posted on November 11, 2011 by birthsmart

Today’s giveaway is for one of my favorite creations.  It’s an audio download class about managing pain in labor.  Leave a comment on this post before 2:00pm central on November 18th to enter to win it.

Remember that you will receive up to five entries for each contest: 1 for commenting, a second for ‘liking’ birth smart on fb or twitter, and 3 bonus entries for SHARING the contest via FB or Twitter.  Be sure and report how many entries you’ve earned in your comment. 

 Here’s a bit about the program:

Did you know that some childbirth preparation methods teach that birth doesn’t have to be a painful experience?  Some women report pain-free and low-pain births.  It may be a matter of semantics, but it is clear that some women are much better at coping with labor than others.  Whether or not you can buy into the idea of a pain-free birth, there are specific strategies and techniques you can use to help manage your discomfort during your birth experience.

You will learn: 

  • About the physiological processes that go on during labor, 
  • How preparing your mind prior to birth can be a powerful tool during labor, 
  • Ideas for comfort measures and reducing stress in your birth space
Good Luck!

Join us on Twitter

Posted in natural birth, offers | 13 Comments

Giveaway #4 – gift credit for Cutie Fruity

Posted on November 10, 2011 by birthsmart

Leave a comment on this post before 2:00pm central on November 17th to enter to win a $20 gift credit for Cutie Fruity, where you can find “Handmade and digital goodies for maternity, baby, kids, and more.” 

Remember that you will receive up to five entries for each contest: 1 for commenting, a second for ‘liking’ birth smart on fb or twitter, and 3 bonus entries for SHARING the contest via FB or Twitter.  Be sure and report how many entries you’ve earned in your comment. 

Check out Paula’s darling creations and win (or buy) some!  Good Luck!

Join us on Twitter

Posted in offers | 10 Comments

Giveaway #3 – doTERRA Certified Pure Therapuetic Grade Essential Oils

Posted on November 9, 2011 by birthsmart

Leave a comment on this post before 2:00pm central on November 16th to enter to win a FREE introductory kit of doTERRA essential oils.  Remember that you will receive up to five entries for each contest: 1 for commenting, a second for ‘liking’ birth smart on fb or twitter, and 3 bonus entries for SHARING the contest via FB or Twitter.  Be sure and report how many entries you’ve earned in your comment. 

This kit includes 5ml bottles of Lemon, Lavender, and Peppermint Essential Oils and an intructional CD about the various uses of these oils.  With this kit, you will have oils with anti-viral, anti-biotic properties that can be used for ailments ranging from headaches, fevers, and stomach problems to cuts and scapes, sleep issues, toxins in the body, and even parasites.  Each batch of doTERRA CPTG oil has been tested by an independant lab for purity and potency, which helps me feel confident in using them in a variety of ways, for every member of my family.      

Win or loose, join me on my journey using and learning about essential oils on my new FB page (with accompanying blog).  Good luck!

Join us on Twitter

Posted in essential oils, offers | 38 Comments

Giveaway #2 – Going to the Motherland: Things to know for your journey

Posted on November 8, 2011 by birthsmart

Leave a comment on this post before 2:00pm central on Tuesday, November 15th to enter the drawing for a FREE copy of this book.  Remember you will receive up to five entries for each contest: 1 for commenting, a second for ‘liking’ birth smart on fb or twitter, and 3 bonus entries for SHARING the contest via FB or Twitter.  Be sure and report how many entries you’ve earned in your comment. 

“Going to the Motherland” by Sarah Blight of Your Baby Booty is a NEW, hilarious, down-to-earth, guide to pregnancy that is full of real information that will help you create your best birth experience.

            You’ll learn:

- How to take charge and get pregnant.

- What to do after you get pregnant.

- Why finding your soul mate of an OB/midwife is majorly important.

- Why firing your doctor (who isn’t doing their job of educating you) is best.

Here’s what people are saying about this book:

5.0 out of 5 stars LOVED, LOVED, LOVED THIS BOOK!!!, October 19, 2011

I picked up this book and literally could not put it down. I felt like I was having a conversation with one of my best girlfriends. This book is a must-read for anyone who planning to have a baby! It was so great to finally find a book that prepares you for the experience of motherhood and the important things we should all to do and ask in preparation for the journey without overwhelming you with too much information. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK!!!

 

5.0 out of 5 stars Going to the MotherLand, October 6, 2011

Wonderful book whether your expecting or not. It made me reflect on my childrens births which brought tears to my eyes. Sarah’s witty sence of humor will keep you laughing throughout the book.

 

5.0 out of 5 stars WHAT A GREAT GIFT FOR THE MOM’s TO BE!!!!!, September 3, 2011

If you are looking for the perfect gift for your friend, niece, daughter, or grandaughter who is thinking about or just learned she’s pregnant – LOOK NO MORE…THIS IS THE PERFECT GIFT! How better to celebrate her joyful anticipation than to have her laugh her socks off!! Yes it may be a scary time, but GOING TO THE MOTHERLAND will answer the un-talked about aspects of the journey by this great gift in her life with humor and outword laughter at each page turn. THis book is guaranteed to be a family treasure passed along with ongoing feedings through the accompanying blog! THANK YOU SARAH FOR SHARING YOUR GIFT OF HUMOR!

 

I’m so thrilled to be sharing this book with you.  Good Luck!

Join us on Twitter

Posted in Uncategorized | 15 Comments

Giveaway #1 – Breastfeeding: Getting Started Right

Posted on November 7, 2011 by birthsmart

Leave a comment on this post before 2:00pm central on Monday, November 14th to enter the drawing for this free downloadable CD program. Remember that you will receive up to five entries for each contest: 1 for commenting, a second for ‘liking’ birth smart on fb or twitter, and 3 bonus entries for SHARING the contest via FB or Twitter.  Be sure and report how many entries you’ve earned in your comment.

I have great memories from producing this program for my new moms.  Here’s what you can expect from it:

Breastfeeding can be a wonderful experience for both mother and baby, but it can also have its challenges.  Prepare yourself to avoid common pitfalls and set yourself up for success.  This class features a special guest: Carole Pulaski, former L&D Nurse (15 years experience) and Certified Lactation Consultant.

You will learn:

1. Tips for establishing successful breastfeeding during your baby’s first hours and days,

2. Answers to common breastfeeding questions,

3. Resources for breastfeeding help and support

Good Luck!

Join us on Twitter

Posted in Uncategorized | 13 Comments

Birth-Smart-Palooza. The contest you’ve been waiting for.

Posted on November 7, 2011 by birthsmart

I am passionate about women and their birth experiences.  These life-changing events can impact them for the rest of their lives and I believe that women have the right to take an active role in their care.  This is what led me to create this business.  I strive to provide a safe space where women can find love, support, and information to help them make informed choices.  I have been thrilled to see my readership grow (even internationally) over the past several months.

This week, we passed 1000 likes on the FB page!  So let’s have some fun. 

As promised, I am ready to kick off a series of 5 (yes, F-I-V-E) awesome giveaways next week.  They will each start with a post on Monday-Friday and be open for one week (with the drawing occurring at 2:00pm central time on the seventh day). To enter, simply post a comment on the blog under the specific contest that suits your fancy (yes, you can enter – and win – all five . . . if you can defy statistical probability).  Remember that each contest doesn’t open until the blog post goes up on the designated day (November 7-11).  You will receive up to five entries for each contest: 1 for commenting, a second for ‘liking’ birth smart on fb or twitter, and 3 bonus entries for SHARING the contest via FB or Twitter.  Be sure and report how many entries you’ve earned in your comment.

Do you want to know what you’re playing for? . . . drumroll . . . 

I’m so excited to share these prizes with you!  Special thanks to those sponsors helping me with the project.  

Remember, the first contest will be open Monday morning.  Check back then and please share this opportunity with others to help me connect with the people who are seeking the support I provide.  Thanks and have an amazing weekend!

Join us on Twitter

Posted in offers | 1 Comment

Everything is Negotiable

Posted on November 1, 2011 by birthsmart

A few weeks ago, I met with a couple preparing for the birth of their second baby.  They did not have doula for their first birth and sought me out because they were hoping to create a different type of birth experience than the first time around.  As we discussed their previous birth, they mentioned how frustrating it was to have multiple vaginal exams by various staff members (ie. nurses, residents, and primary providers).  I suggested that this time they could decline the routine exams and ask that they be performed only at the mother’s request (and only by who the mother allows). 

The dad shook his head thoughtfully and said, “I had no idea we could say no to that.” 

It really struck me that the concept of informed consent/refusal is something birth professionals often take for granted.  What a great reminder that we cannot assume everyone realizes that they have options.  In a hospital setting, families can easily be swept up in routines and procedures that may or may not be helpful or necessary in a given situation.  Our society has evolved to revere and obey authority figures, and most childbearing women simply submit to all practices mandated by their institution (regardless of the fact that routines and policies often vary from one hospital to another). Most families are not inclined to question and assess each and every test/procedure . . . but would often be wise to do so.   

Childbirth Connection provides an excellent resource detailing the legal rights of childbearing women.  Here are a few highlights from this document. 

2 Every woman and infant has the right to receive care that is consistent with current scientific evidence about benefits and risks.* Practices that have been found to be safe and beneficial should be used when indicated. Harmful, ineffective or unnecessary practices should be avoided. Unproven interventions should be used only in the context of research to evaluate their effects.

5 Every woman has the right to leave her maternity caregiver and select another if she becomes dissatisfied with her care.*

 Every woman has the right to full and clear information about benefits, risks and costs of the procedures, drugs, tests and treatments offered to her, and of all other reasonable options, including no intervention.* She should receive this information about all interventions that are likely to be offered during labor and birth well before the onset of labor. 

16 Every woman has the right to receive full advance information about risks and benefits of all reasonably available methods for relieving pain during labor and birth, including methods that do not require the use of drugs. She has the right to choose which methods will be used and to change her mind at any time.*

17 Every woman has the right to freedom of movement during labor, unencumbered by tubes, wires or other apparatus. She also has the right to give birth in the position of her choice.*

So, just to be clear:

Every birthing family has rights and choices.

It is not at all uncommon for either hospital or provider practices to conflict with some of these rights.  If your wishes differ from hospital policy, you can still exercise informed refusal of procedures (in extreme cases, you may sign a liability waiver that states you are refusing medical advice). 

Everything is negotiable. 

As you take an active role in your birth experience, you can collaborate with your providers to assess the benefits and risks of the many choices you will face during your unique birth experience.  This approach, of course, can make some waves with staff who are less than flexible, so it is important to choose your provider very carefully and learn to communicate in a positive and assertive way. 

But you absolutely have the right to say “no”. 

photo by Sujin Jetkasettakorn

Join us on Twitter

Posted in birth in the usa, doulas, optimal maternity care | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

Nurturing Prenatal Yoga

Posted on October 26, 2011 by birthsmart

I am pleased to share this guest post written by a Wichita local: Sheryl Haynes RYT, CIBY, CPP.   She is a mother of four, Early Childhood Family Specialist, and Personal Yoga Trainer with previous experience as a doula and childbirth educator.  She teaches Nurturing Prenatal Yoga, an on-going 90 minute class that meets at InnerWorks, www.innerworks.org, 946-0990.  Check out other Sunshine Family Yoga offerings by finding her on Facebook, including a unique mom and baby postnatal class!  Sheryl does a lot of great work to support our local moms.  If you provide similar services in your area, feel free to post the info in the comments section.    

The word yoga is Sanskrit, translated “to yoke” or bind together.   Yoga unites mind, body, and spirit through asana (postures and exercises), pranayama (breathing techniques), and meditation (guided visualizations and breath work).  Within a prenatal yoga practice, the unity expands to the baby developing within.  Prenatal yoga teaches a women to connect, tune-in, and gain a deep awareness of her body and its’ innate wisdom.  Prenatal yoga provides natural options to alleviate common discomforts and anxiety, promotes strength and mom/baby well-being, fosters energy and balance, and builds confidence in birthing and parenting.  Pelvic floor exercises, and hip opening asanas strengthen baby’s pelvic cradle.   Within each prenatal yoga class a nurturing community develops, and pertinent information is shared, supporting each pregnant woman on her unique journey.   

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily.  Leslie Lytle, OmMama, LLC, states the following…”Prenatal yoga classes offer an outstanding opportunity for pregnant women to engage in safe and appropriate physical activity.  Specifically focused asanas and exercises help the pregnant student develop core strength and skills to achieve more comfort during her pregnancy.  Breath awareness, conscious relaxation, and mindfulness practices offered in yoga classes foster self-reliance and the ability to relax while under stress, qualities that can help women cope more with the rigors of labor, birth and the early postpartum period.”  Babies love prenatal yoga too!  The movement and breath nurtures them.  An active yoga practice, of 20 minutes 3 or more times a week, produces larger placentas.  Continuing that level of activity in late pregnancy helps baby tolerate contractions better, have lower fat to lean muscle, transition outside the womb easier, and are calmer in nature. 

All pregnant women, and their unborn babies, deserve the support and guidance a Nurturing Prenatal Yoga class provides!  Prepared childbirth education classes prepare you for birth.  Nurturing Prenatal Yoga supports each stage of your pregnancy, birth, and parenting journey with the uniqueness of life.  Women who attend the classes regularly feel more connected to their baby and bodies, have more energy, are able to relax, fell more confident about birthing, easier postpartum recovery and transition to mothering.  Yoga can decrease incidence of medical interventions, support milk production for breastfeeding, and ease hormonal changes.  “Prenatal Yoga engaged my whole being. I feel that it helped reduce many anxieties I had about labor. It also assisted in keeping my flexibility throughout the entire pregnancy and I am positive that it aided in my easy labor. I also strongly believe that the relaxation and breathing techniques radiated to my son before he was born, making labor easier for him too. Sheryl catered to each of us in the class and I was so happy with the results that I immediately signed up for Baby Itsy Bitsy Yoga once Slade was old enough.” – Tammara C

photo by sakhorn38

Join us on Twitter

Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...
Posted in prepare your body, prepare your mind | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment