EXPLORING & CELEBRATING MATRESCENCE
Birth(work) blog.
BUMP, BIRTH + BEYOND
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BUMP, BIRTH + BEYOND 〰️
| birth | birth partner | birth stories | caregivers | member spotlight | hypnobirthing | intervention | newborn | postpartum | pregnancy | what to expect |
Nurturing Your Postpartum Journey: Preparing as a Team
Welcoming a new addition to your family is transformative. By coming together as a team and fostering communication, you can navigate this journey with confidence and create a nurturing environment where both you and your partner thrive.
Community Interview: Kalynda
Welcome to our Community Member Interview series, where we connect through stories, shared experiences, and a sense of community. In this edition, we are thrilled to introduce Kalynda, a devoted mother, emerging doula, photographer, and advocate for women's health. Join us as we delve into Kalynda's inspiring journey—from her small beach town upbringing to her transformative experiences in motherhood and postpartum care. Discover how Kalynda's mission to break the cycle of generational trauma and her passion for supporting women's well-being have shaped her path. Be inspired by her resilience, her dedication to personal growth, and her unwavering commitment to building connections within The Birth Portal Community.
7 Slow Cooker Recipes for Postpartum Meal Prep or Meal Trains
Preparing meals for postpartum recovery or meal trains can be a lifesaver for new parents. With the help of a slow cooker, you can easily whip up nourishing dishes that require minimal effort. From a comforting Massaman Beef Curry to a creamy Coconut Lentil Curry, these 7 slow cooker recipes will satisfy cravings, save time, and provide much-needed sustenance during this special time. Whether you're cooking for yourself or a loved one, these flavourful meals are perfect for postpartum meal prep or sharing with others.
What to Expect When Losing Your Mucous Plug: A Sign of Labour Preparation
Are you curious about what to expect when you lose your mucous plug during pregnancy? This informative blog post dives into the fascinating details of this natural process. Explore the purpose of the mucous plug, its significance in labour preparation, and the common signs to watch for. Gain a better understanding of this milestone in your pregnancy journey and find reassurance as you anticipate the arrival of your little one.
Ceremonial Cacao
I absolutely adore a cup of ceremonial cacao, and I must say I go through seasons of having it daily, then go months without it. However, since returning to Brighton 2 weeks ago, I've been having it every single morning and I am loving the cosy ritual of it. I add a few extra bits and pieces to mine so I thought I’d share my recipe with you
Preparing for the postpartum.
If you are cooking for a meal train of a loved one, or even doing some meal prep of your own you might be looking for some delicious and hearty recipes to sustain and nourish a new family - here are some of my go-to’s.
Birth - Supporting the process
Birth is an instinctual & primal activity. The part of the brain that controls birth is the same part that controls sex drive and sleep. When we consider those things, and what we need in order support both of those processes, it helps to give us some clues as to how we can best support the process of birth.
Leo’s Birth Story
Alice and Shane opted to join my virtual group Hypnobirthing Classes in January 2021 in anticipation for welcoming their divine little love into their family. Alice has so thoughtfully and lovingly woven her words to provide an insightful recollection of her empowered birth experience. An experience in which Shane felt confident, knowledgeable and empowered to serve as Alice’s unwavering rock and biggest advocate. I feel so honoured to have to opportunity to share this beautiful story with you.
Understanding Induction of Labour: Important Considerations for Informed Decision-Making
Induction of labour is a crucial topic that requires thorough understanding to make informed decisions about childbirth. While it's not meant to scare anyone, it's important to explore the lesser-known aspects of induction. The updated draft of the 2021 NICE guidelines recommends offering induction at 41 weeks, but expectant management is also a valid option if you prefer to wait for natural labour. However, extended monitoring is recommended during expectant management. Induction carries risks, including uterine hyper-stimulation, ineffective induction, increased pain, CTG monitoring limitations, pharmacological pain relief, and a higher likelihood of assisted delivery or even caesarean birth. By considering these risks and weighing them against the benefits, individuals can make informed decisions that suit their unique circumstances. Consult reputable resources and engage in discussions with healthcare providers to gain a comprehensive understanding of induction of labour.
Nicole brings Daisy earth-side
Nicole and Ryan then opted to join my Hypnobirthing Classes in February which were selectively for midwives and birthworkers who were moving into the realms of bringing their own babies earth-side. Nicole spoke with such innate trust and knowing as she described the empowered birth experience that she was planning for and the support network that she was calling in.
Tips for the first 48hours post birth
Some practical tips to keep in mind and help you to navigate the first 48 hours in hospital after the birth of your baby.
Oxytocin Boosters
Something that I recommend my postpartum clients do is create a list of oxytocin boosters. Simple things that make you feel good & elevate your mood. These things don’t have to be elaborate - in fact it’s best if they aren’t, we want the items on your list to feel tangible and achievable even if you’re sleep deprived, anxious, feeling a bit disheveled or only have 5mins to yourself.
Connecting with your postpartum body
Our relationship with our body is complex and ever-evolving. In the postpartum it can be challenging to accept this softer and often seemingly unfamiliar body, however its important to be reminded of the strength and cleverness of your life bearing body.
Online Resources for Pregnancy & the Postpartum
A list of online resources to support you including; podcasts, books, education, courses, hotlines, facebook groups and more.
A quick guide for birth support people.
A guide addressing ways in which you can support a birthing person and promote a positive & empowering experience.
Birth Story - Erin + Ben welcome Cissie into the world
Erin & Ben did the Hypnobirthing course with Chloe at 28 weeks and were in the Baggarook Program at the Women’s, where they were able to have amazing continuity of care with the one midwife.
Helpful Resources for Birth Partners
I’ve had a couple of birth partners ask for recommendations of things that might help to support their prep for birth and beyond, so I’ve developed this list as a starting point for those who are looking for some perspectives or insights from others.
Birth Story - Meeting Ezekiel - Steph’s VBAC birth
“The most healing, empowering and beautiful birth experience I could have imagined. No drugs, no doctors, no tearing, no emergencies, no panic, no fear - just raw strength and pure birthing power. “
Pre-shift rituals for midwives & nurses
I am sure that we can all resonate with that feeling of nervousness and anxiety that sometimes arises pre-shift, especially if we are feeling tired, low on energy or have had a new challenges shifts in the lead up to returning to the hospital.
Birth Story - James arrives earthside
I had the pleasure of working with Bec as a fellow midwife for a few years and am thrilled to have the opportunity to share her beautiful birth experience with you. Bec hired a private midwife, @mamatotomidwives, early on in her pregnancy with much excitement and a beautiful vision for an empowered birth experience. James arrival earth side was a powerful and positive experience for Bec, and her story so wonderfully shares how she was able to support her body to do what it was designed to do throughout labour.