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Alison Hansen Doula

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25.01.2022 I am heading over to see the twins today, how beautiful they are. During my visit today I will be giving mum some well needed pamper time. A luxurious calming massage, a blessing with hot lavender packs and belly binding. Finished off with a healing hot chai and dhal soup ready to go. What new mum doesn't deserve a little love back If you are interested in my postpartum session please get in touch www.alisonhansendoula.com.au

25.01.2022 And those moments make everything worth it. Hold onto those moments.

24.01.2022 Chiropractic and Acupuncture in Pregnancy Pregnancy is an incredible time, but there is no denying it comes with its fair share of discomfort. It is also a time when it is best to try and avoid taking too many medications, as many of them can have adverse affects on your baby. So how do you cope with the aches and pains that can go along with pregnancy, without resorting to medications? Luckily, here are some great, safe options for during pregnancy, labour and even in your postpartum period. Read the full blog https://alisonhansendoula.com.au/chiropractic-and-acupunct/

23.01.2022 I love been with this family & yesterday in my visit we double checked our breastfeeding latch to keep those nipples protected and then did baby massage. Babies benefit enormously from massage and by extension their parents do too! 1. Sleep not only will massage help settle your baby, but it will improve their quality and quantity of sleep, leading to a more rested baby and more rested parents! 2. Relaxation massage decreases cortisol (the stress hormone) and increa...ses hormones like serotonin and oxytocin, which improve mood and create calm. And doesnt everyone want a calm and relaxed baby? 3. Digestion many babies suffer from colic, wind, reflux or constipation. This is not only painful for them, but makes them unhappy. Massage assists with the normal functioning of the digestive system and reduces the effects of all these problems. 4. Immunity research shows that immunity and overall physical wellbeing is improved with massage. 5. Growth and Development massage stimulates the communication between the right and left sides of the brain, which improves the co-ordination which is so important in learning to grasp, crawl and walk. It has also been shown to improve cognitive development. 6. Congestion specific massage techniques have been shown to reduce congestion in the sinus and lungs when baby has a cold, which of course helps them breathe more easily. 7. Pain Relief massage increases the production of endorphins, which have been shown to reduce the perception of pain, so when baby is teething, or in pain for any reason, massage can help give them some natural relief. See more

23.01.2022 We need to rage because accepting this as the new norm is not fucking ok. Imagine, just for a moment, that as a result of the pandemic, women were denied access to epidurals during labour, for reasons regarding COVID infection risk to caregivers. What would happen? OUTRAGE. Thats what would happen. It would be declared inhumane and the removal of rights of women. Yes? ... Well that hasnt happened. Of course it fucking hasnt. But have you heard what has?? RANZCOG have issued a statement denying women the use of water during labour as an infection control measure against COVID. Note there is ZERO evidence to back up this move. Of all the births i attend, there are two things that consistently help women through their labours and they are CHOSEN support people, and access to showers and/or deep water immersion for pain relief. Since the beginning of COVID, varying slightly from hospital to hospital, women have been denied any more than one support person. So women have their partner with them, but no doula/sister/friend/mother and in the case of hospital transfer from home birth, often even the private midwife gets shut out on entry. And now, this. The denial of the use of water- one of the major providers of comfort during labour and birth for women who choose against anesthesia. RANZCOGs answer?? Offer women early epidurals instead. On our backs. On a bed. Anaesthetised. Who has the control then? Fine of thats what you choose. But if youre backed into that corner because everything else is taken away? We need to rage because accepting this as the new norm is not fucking ok. #itstime #waterbirth Posted @withregram @jerushasutton See more

23.01.2022 What surprised you most about married life after baby? For many first-time parents, life after baby can bring about many changes and challenges to the relationship. And they can catch you quite off-guard. THINGS LIKE ... Postpartum mental health effects (for either mum or dad), that can include things like irritability, anxiety, baby blues, or even depression. Unrealistic expectations or pressure set on the mother to be perfect, keep a spotless house and just get everything right. Sleep deprivation that comes with the territory of having a newborn baby and can lead to crankiness and arguments about who’s turn it is to get up. Parenting styles that you weren’t aware of previously, whether it’s due to personality issues or basic baby care philosophies like sleep-training or breastfeeding. The division of household chores that can cause issues if both parents are not equally involved. Finding time for just the two of you when a sitter isn't possible Less time or interest in being intimate due to all the physical and hormonal changes. And increased expenses that inevitably comes with adding another member to the family. SO WHAT CAN YOU DO TO MANAGE? With any relationship issue, but especially for those affecting new parents, communication is KEY. Discuss your postpartum plan in advance to help get each other on the same page and set expectations better. Understand that no parent is perfect, no matter how it may seem. Everyone is doing the best they can. Knowing this will help you keep things in perspective. Give each other grace, those early days may be testing and require lots of patience. Choose your battles carefully and support each other along the way. Schedule time for just the two of you if you aren’t able to hire a sitter, plan a simple date night at home while baby is sleeping. It doesn’t have to be fancy to get started. Posted @withregram @mommysbundle

22.01.2022 WANT AN EASIER LABOUR AND BIRTH? TAG a pregnant friend - she needs to know this! . 3 separate studies have shown that people who eat six dates a day for 4 weeks leading up to their due period have better labour and birth outcomes than non date eaters. . Date eaters had: 77% shorter first stage of labour 43% lower caesarean section rates... 51% lower rates of vacuum/forceps . They also were: 74% more dilated than non-date eaters at admission to birthplace 38% more likely to have intact membranes 21% more likely to go into labour on their own 28% less likely to use protein/oxytocin (pitocin) to induce labour 68% more likely to have a successful vaginal birth after labour induction . Research suggests this occurs because dates have an oxytocin-like effect on the body, leading to increased sensitivity of the uterus. They stimulate uterine contractions and reduce postpartum hemorrhage, the way oxytocin does. . Keep in mind that they are high in sugar - if you have blood sugar levels go easy on them in early pregnancy. . 6 dates a day is the magic number if youre eating Deglet Noor dates. Medjool dates you only need about 3 (70 to 75 grams). Either date is fine to have. . Dont like dates? - add a little nut butter and sea salt to them or add them into your fav recipes! . I did this during my pregnancy and my labour and birth was epic! I also exercised daily and chose to birth at home with a private midwife. . Curious to know if others out there are dates when they were pregnant? Please check out the evidence based birth website for a full list and review of the research thats been done on this . Posted @withregram @coreandfloorrestore Reposting this for those that havent seen it!

21.01.2022 Is having a big baby a reason for intervention? Apparently it doesn't really matter. There are 3 reasons: 1. Your babys bones in its head arent fused. Babys heads are more like plates of the earth rather than one large bone. They are soft and can move to fit through your pelvis, called moulding. They can mould to be like a cone-shape and they can also even overlap so that their heads are a smaller diameter.... 2. Your pelvis when pregnant can expand in diameter by up to 28%. Relaxin is a hormone that increases as you get towards your due date and is a right pain in the arse (literally) for when youre pregnant but, its very useful for birth. Its like the WD40 for your joints and makes your screws loosen in your pelvis so they can accommodate your baby travelling through. 3. Scans are notoriously inaccurate for measuring size. They are more beneficial for trends in growth rather than a one-off measurement of your baby. The thing with most of these worries about pregnancy and birth, they can be solved with some factual myth busting. The next time someone says you have a great big baby on board, you can think about these points and feel much better. #Repost @thebumptobabychapter @download.ins Posted @withregram @beauty_in_birth @nova.birth.services Reposted from @birthtobub #bigbabies#ultrasounds#pelvis#thirdtrimester#sydneydoula#donnathedoula#knowledgeispower

21.01.2022 Have you done your Birth Plan to find out What These Interventions Are // Listen now to the Evidence Based Birth Podcast: EBB 137 - The Power of Birth Stories with Bryn Huntpalmer ... ebbirth.com/podcast I can help guide you on making informed decisions prior to birth. Get in touch at www.alisonhansendoula.com.au ___ #evidencebasedbirth #ebbirth #evidence #podcast #birthstories #COVID19 #breechbirth #birthplan #birthteam #podcast Posted @withregram @ebbirth // See more

21.01.2022 In between my beautiful clients I am trying to finish 2 courses. Sacred Belly Binding & my medicinal kitchen apprenticeship. This week we have been learning about Adaptogens. Adaptogens are a select group of herbs or plants (and some mushrooms like Reshi) that are non toxic, benefits the entire physiology, normalises or Balances the body. Supports the bodys natural ability to deal with stress. They are called adaptogens because of their unique ability to adapt their functi...on according to the specific needs of the body. This may be physical, chemical or biological needs and incorporating this as safe medicine woven into foods. Herbs like Ashwagandha, Maca, Turmeric, Tulsi, Shatavari, Schizadra but also everyday super foods found in our cupboards, such as Cacao , coconut, egg yolks, Ceylon cinnamon, cardamom New mothers face the demands of caring for a baby in the wake of the steep hormonal shift at childbirth and can be safely taken by the breastfeeding mother during the postpartum period. You can look forward to something like a Adatogenic Chai tea been added to my postpartum menu www.alisonhansendoula.com.au

20.01.2022 A rare capture of babies fontanelles Newborn and Fetal Skull At birth, the newborn's skull consists of five major bones (two frontal, two parietal, and one occipital) that are separated by connective tissue junctions known as cranial sutures. The sutures function as seams, and they are highly necessary to facilitate the movement and molding of the cranium through the birth canal during labor. They also allow for rapid postnatal growth and development of the brain. Howev...er, the bones that shape the cranium begin unfused, leaving several gaps between the individual bones of the infant's skull. These gaps are composed of membranous connective tissue and are known as fontanelles. (Lipsett et al, 2020) Image by @wildheartphotoandfilm #human #humanity #peadiatrics #peadiatrician #newborn #newbornphotography #birth #childbirth #midwifery #midwife #studentmidwife #baby #newbaby #doula #birthdoula Posted @withregram @student_midwife_studygram

20.01.2022 Busy last night cooking some postpartum food for a beautiful family with quite a few allergies. It took me a little to figure it out but I think I've nailed it. Jujube & Ginger Tea GF/DF Gooey brownies Napali Rice Pudding Salmon & Pea Risotto

20.01.2022 This is Lidija & Izabella. one week old and doing so well !! Their personalities are starting to shine through. Mum & dad are pretty exhausted and everything a blur but blown away at these little girls strength & resilience. We are all sending so much love And to all the midwives in special care doing an amazing job looking after this special family we thank you Sydney Adventist Hospital

18.01.2022 The drop in female hormones after birth is considered the single LARGEST sudden hormone change in the SHORTEST amount of time, for any human being, at any point in their life. Get this - during pregnancy your estrogen and progesterone will increase to the level of taking almost 100 BIRTH CONTROL PILLS in one day! And then within a matter of three days after birth you're essential back to a baseline of what your hormones were before pregnancy - and even lower. So you can imag...ine this is a little like PMS on steroids! The drop in hormones you experience after pregnancy stimulates your body to produce a hormone called prolactin - which signals your milk-making glands to produce breast milk. Exclusively breastfeeding actually suppresses your natural estrogen and progesterone levels to keep your breast milk supply high and your periods away. If you do not breastfeed - prolactin levels will drop and you may experience a period as early as 6 weeks after birth. If you combine feed your baby your hormone levels will also change - prolactin levels and milk supply will drop slightly, estrogen & progesterone will rise and you may also experience a period while breastfeeding. WHY IS THIS SIGNIFICANT? A surge in oxytocin after birth and during breastfeeding compensates for the initial drop of estrogen and progesterone. Around 6 weeks those positive post-birth hormones can begin to fade and you might start noticing the effects of low progesterone and estrogen. These two hormones are key to making dopamine and serotonin, two neurotransmitters in the brain that are important in feeling calm and happy. So, with a reduction in post-birth hormones, progesterone and estrogen some women might start to experience the baby-blues. If this is you - please know it is completely natural to feel overwhelmed. Reach out, get support & find tools to help you through this crazy hormonal ride. WHEN WILL HORMONES RETURN TO NORMAL? Hormones can return to normal anywhere from 6 weeks- 6 months postpartum (depending on breastfeeding). Pregnancy can sometimes cause your hormones to go a little whacky! Thanks @functionalnaturopathy for this post

18.01.2022 Ha so true, I still sway from side to side

18.01.2022 Gosh how beautiful is this !Having siblings at birth can be profoundly bonding and powerfully transformative - bringing kids into a circle of life our culture hides. But it’s not for everyone and can have challenges: your little one asking non-stop questions, wanting your partner’s attention, wanting to rub your back when you need space. I’ve seen many mamas pulled out of ‘the zone’ - only for labor to really get going once kids fell asleep or went off to auntie’s or grandma’...s. Some get scared and don’t want to be there. Every child is different. If you choose to have your kids present, here are some tips to keep it smooth: Involve your child in prenatals and prepare them for birth in an age-appropriate way. Talk about what they might see and how they might feel. Look at photos and watch videos. Talk about loud sounds, screaming, pushing, blood - and explain that although it might look intense, mom’s okay! Labor can be a long process; having a little there the whole time can be overwhelming for both mama and baby. Have a plan for when to have your child there, and when they should be with a caretaker, so they can rest and you can focus. Often having them present when it’s time to birth makes the most sense for you and them. Have a trusted support person they love - not your doula, partner, or other support person who is there for you. My husband was the person for my older grandchild when I midwifed the baby. The designated person’s job is to make this a great experience for your child, keep him nourished, and answer questions - they should not be attached to seeing the birth if your child needs to leave. Also, should you need to transport to hospital, or decide it’s best not to have your child in the room, you don’t have to worry about childcare. I’ll never forget one breech birth I midwifed. When boys are born bum first, their testicles look like plums. The older brother sat in my lap and, ‘helped with the birth.’ After, eyes wide as saucers he told his auntie about it and we all laughed so hard. 30 years ago and I still remember how excited he was! Did you have your children at your birth? Did you see your mum Posted @withregram @avivaromm

18.01.2022 Your body and baby will tell you exactly what they need in labor. Movement shortens labor, makes it more comfortable and being upright reduces incidents of fetal distress. Too many women are STILL giving birth on their back. Even with an epidural most women can be helped to move into an upright position. ... Tell - (dont ask) your careprovider that YOU will be choosing the position that feels best for you. #uprightbirth #laboranddelivery #evidencebased #positivebirth #epidural #hypnobirthing #midwife #empoweredbirth Posted @withregram @gentlebirthofficia See more

18.01.2022 Our beautiful doula Christmas party this year was an adult sleepover, with matchy matchy PJ’s , a great dinner & special gifts to each other and a in house day spa facial & peppermint foot fizz. While we have all worked hard this year supporting many families in difficult times, we also support each other hugely. It was nice to chill out together & end the year on a high. Merry Christmas to all our families, enjoy the holiday season Beauty in Birth Claire Heenan Doula

18.01.2022 Do you know your partner's love language? The fabulous and practical quick read, "The Five Love Languages: The Secret to Love that Lasts" by Gary Chapman, is a helpful guide for you and your partner to better understand your love languages. Why?... Because once you do, you won't be making assumptions about what you and your partner wants/needs/desires - you'll KNOW :) And when you know your love languages, you can more effectively fill each others' love tanks - which can equal greater connection and greater love. What's your love language? ...Share with us below! . #lovelanguage #relationships #intimacy #marriage #partnership #love #lifelongpartners #happiness #onlinetherapy #onlinecounsellor #rydedistrictmums #aussiemums #northshoremums #parenthood #parenting #motherhood #lifeafterkids #postnatalfitness #postpartum #lifewithkids #realparenting #fivelovelanguages #innerwestmums #wahm #sahm #busymum #naturalmum #consciousmama #consciousparenting #selfhelp Posted @withregram @mindmomentumformums See more

18.01.2022 I've seen this crib in action a few times now & simply love it SNOO's motion, white noise and cozy swaddle all work together to create a soothing environment for your little one SNOO helps your baby fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer - while keeping him safely on the back all night long. Would love to know who else has used them? @tlacy1988... #happiestbaby #babysleep #snoo #snoonation #bassinet Posted @withregram @happiest_baby

17.01.2022 Those early days are hard. After a while it all becomes a blur. Feed, burp, change, feed, burp, rock, feed, feed, feed...... Hormones out of wack. Uterus contacting every time you feed. Still bleeding, can barely sit. Tired, oh so tired. Thirsty, hungry. They told you to download podcasts and books for all those times you'd be nursing. But your brain can only handle aimlessly scrolling through social media. It's hard. If you're in it, I see you. I promise you it gets better. Your baby will smile at you soon and it'll all melt away. And one day, not that long from now, you'll look back on those hard days with a lump in your throat. You'll smile because you'll know how strong and incredible you are. You'll miss the days your baby was that tiny. Maybe you'll even want another one. But right now, it's hard. And it's ok that you feel this way. You are not broken. You are not weak. You are not ungrateful. You get to feel however you feel. You get to mourn your old life. You get to feel exhausted, excited, frustrated, and in love all at the same time. I won't badger you with more advice than you've already gotten but I'll tell you this: be kind to yourself. You are creating life. You are amazing. Seek postpartum support from a doula, set up meal trains with friends and if family are visiting bring a plate of food! me and my 6 day old baby Posted @withregram @newparadigmmotherhood See more

17.01.2022 Dogs can smell hormonal changes in your body. They can sense that something about you is different and they can also see your physical changes happening. ... As the birth of your baby grows nearer, your pal may again sense these changes and may become extra clingy and extra protective. They may follow you around to make sure you are ok. . PhotoCred: @anagarbulho Posted @withregram @badassmotherbirther . See more

17.01.2022 Ayurvedic Carrot Cake made for a pregnant mum who just lost her dad. Such an emotional time but I am here to support you Such a grounding, delicately sweet but oh so satisfying cake, loaded with lots of goodies such as ghee, spelt flour, cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg, turmeric and carrots. All with the help of my new #thermomixaustralia

17.01.2022 Doulas are the best If you have doubts about having a doula or not having one, always say yes!! you wil never regreat it! @withregram @birth_ed Doulas... ... "Before you scroll on past with rolling eyes thinking this one is just for hippys, bear with me for 60 seconds. 'Doula' is another one of those words, a but like 'hypnobirthing' that sounds a bit weird until you know what it really means! And (unless you're a big Gilmore Girls fan like me) you may not have come across doulas before. Doulas nurture and support women either throughout labour and birth or in the postnatal period (or both!). As a non medical professional they are there to provide you with support (be that practical, physical, emotional, information providing or as your advocate), no matter what decisions you make or how you give birth. Doulas, just like the rest of us, come from ALL walks of life! It's simply about finding someone you connect with, who you feel able to welcome into your birthing space. A cochrane review into continuous support from a woman in labour showed women were.. More likely to have spontaneous vaginal births Less likely to have any pain medication including epidurals Less likely to have negative feelings about childbirth Less likely to have instrumental births, and Cesareans Likely to have a shorter labour by approx 40 minutes. Less likely to suffer from postnatal depression. There is NO evidence that having continuous support in labour has any negative outcomes NONE! YIKES! So why don't we all have one? For more info on doulas and the most wonderful and insightful chat about birth, listen to episode 1 of the birth-ed podcast! Would you consider a doula?" Photo: @evarosebirth ___ #atxdoulas #doula #birthdoula #postpartumdoula #laborsupport #womensupportingwomen #birthteam #doulasrock #doulasupport #yourbirthyourway #birthwithconfidenconfidence #orgasmicbirth Posted @withregram @orgasmicbirth

17.01.2022 Walcher's Position . The Walcher's position is an engagement technique that allows contractions to help a baby who is higher up engage into the pelvis. . Enegagement is when the baby settles into the pelvis. 1st babies will usually engage by 38 weeks and any subsequent babies will usually engage before or during early labor. Your baby has to get into the pelvis before it can go through the pelvis. ... . Walcher's position can be used when labor has already begun but strong, frequent contractions aren't helping the baby move down and engage. It opens the brim of the pelvis from front to back and opens the pubic bone away from the spine. This makes more room for the baby to engage. . : @nicole_hamic . #SpinningBabies #Walchers See more

17.01.2022 If you are a pumping mama or plan to pump at any time for any reason, it's important to know the general breastmilk storage guidelines to keep the breastmilk safe for your baby and to not let a drop of your hard earned milk go to waste! . Here are some helpful guidelines for pumped breastmilk and how long it stays fresh. Freshly pumped milk: Room temperature 4-8 hours. Insulated cooler/ice packs up to 24 hours.... Refrigerated milk (store in back, away from door): Fresh milk- 3-8 days (ideal 72 hours). Thawed milk- up to 24 hours. Frozen Milk (Do not refreeze! Store at back, away from door/sides): Freezer compartment inside refrigerator (older-style) up to 2 weeks. Self-contained freezer unit of a refrigerator/freezer up to 6 months. Separate deep freeze up to 12 months (ideal is 6 months). How do you store your breastmilk? Let us know in the comments below!

16.01.2022 BENEFITS OF GOLDEN MILK Golden Milk (aka: turmeric latte) is rich in turmeric and spices. Not only does is it a perfect winter-warmer but the curcumin within it is proven to: Reduce Inflammation Reduce Oxidative Stress Boost Immunity Boost Mood Reduce Risk for Cancer, Alzhiemers & Heart Disease ... It's also great for menstrual flow & reducing pain during your cycle! And postpartum RECIPE 1C Milk (Almond, Rice, Coconut etc) 1 Tsp Ground Turmeric 1/2 Tsp Cinnamon 1/4 Tsp Ground Ginger Pinch Black Pepper 1 Tsp Maple Syrup METHOD Warm all ingredients in a small saucepan until it comes to a low simmer - DRINK! Posted @withregram @functionalnaturopathy

16.01.2022 This is what birth is all about!! Today I spent the morning with the new parents of little Albie. We debriefed the birth & it was magical Her preparation during pregnancy definitely paid off. She was able to have a water birth and breathed him into the world. So I have brought them nutritious food with strict instructions on rest & hydration. The community nurse came & we all helped with breastfeeding, making some adjustments. This beautiful family decided to seek the suppo...rt they truly deserve during the fourth-trimester and today the village was there to help and guide them on their journey. This is how birth should be! Natural, supported with ongoing nourishment, warmth and love, honoured as she steps from maiden to mother.

15.01.2022 Our western culture has it so wrong. Were not only neglecting our new mothers as a society but were expecting them to go back to work & wear the juggle of motherhood & careers like a badge of honour. Around the world, new mothers are expected to rest for the first twenty to sixty days after giving birth. Women are literally sequestered in order to rest. Both classical Chinese medicine and Ayurveda view this time as the most critical in ensuring a womans long-term health.... Chinese call this period zuo yuezi, which means sitting out the month, intense resting, they have no distractions, no visitors, no chores to do In India, this period is called the sacred window, and women move from their marital house back into their mothers houses so they have no household responsibilities. Vietnamese women respect this time called namo, lying in a nest, by eating tonics and soups, and sitting over charcoal steam prepared by their aunts and mothers. In Mexico and Guatemala, this forty-day rest period for healing and mother-infant bonding is called la cuarentena. In Hopi and Mayan traditions, unmarried and elder women take care of new mothers, so they are relieved of their normal duties and responsibilities and can simply care for their babies during this time This immediate forty-day window postpartum is considered so potent that a woman can heal lifelong illnesses and restore her health, or she can become vulnerable to diseases that take a lifetime to attend to. There was a standard of care given to mothers after birth that has been lost in modern western culture. Lets take back the wisdom of these ancient cultures, if not for ourselves then for our daughters Tag a girlfriend in the comments below. Posted @withregram @nutritionbyginarose

14.01.2022 Having a Baby During Covid Becoming a mum is the most joyous thing in the world, but there are always concerns that trouble you. Will the baby be healthy? How will I cope with labour? Will I be able to breastfeed successfully? These are all natural and normal concerns for expectant mums. This year, though, there is an additional worry. Covid 19. And it’s not something we can turn to our support network to help us with, as nobody has experienced this before.... I always feel that knowledge is power, so let’s take a look at some of the things that might be worrying you, and some of the things you might like to think about in the months leading up to your birth. To read the full blog go to https://alisonhansendoula.com.au/having-a-baby-during-covid/

13.01.2022 Happy Fathers Day . The moment you become a daddy is one you'll never forget .... As a birth partner, you literally have the power to relieve pain, aid relaxation, increase oxytocin and make birth amazing.. So here are my top tips to being a useful birth partner! . Create a relaxing environment- at home or hospital. Candles, nice smells, music, dark room etc . Massage! An amazing tool for relieving pain & increasing oxytocin . Kisses and cuddles, if you partner likes it, this is a great way for increasing oxytocin.. Some women prefer to be left to it though, so it's nothing personal if they don't want it in labour! . Be present. Do nothing. This is the HARDEST part of being a good birth partner, simply 'being'. Phones away, telly off, just be near, be quiet & be there. . Shh. Keep quiet. Conversation lights up the neocortex or thinking part of a woman's brain, which needs to be off in labour! So unless she really needs it, once labour becomes established, she's closing her eyes and not engaging etc. Try not to talk too much in her space . Advocate. Know her preferences. Know her options. Know your rights. Ask questions. Be her voice . Be the giver of food and drink! . Happy Father's Day! Tag any dads to be so they can save this post and recap when the big day arrives!! Posted @withregram @birth_ed

13.01.2022 This pandemic is no doubt a stressful time to be pregnant or parenting a newborn. The postpartum period is a time of enormous beauty and connection, intense sleep deprivation, shifting hormones and changing identity. Even under normal circumstances, the weeks after giving birth can be overwhelming. Adding a global pandemic to the mix can make things even more challenging plus family unable to come at this valuable time is leaving them more isolated. Some tips and how a doula ...can help Ask critical support people to send groceries and baby supplies once a week for the first six weeks. Embrace been at home & make it a slow 40 days of resting, healing and bonding stock up your pantry & freezer well in advance Postpartum doula care and support can also help you process your own birth story. A postpartum doula can be your confidant, someone to talk to and bearing witness to the remarkable events of life is just as vital. A postpartum doula will bring you a hot nutritious meal, allow you to get valuable sleep & guide your new family through each day For more information go to www.alisonhansendoula.com.au

13.01.2022 Our beautiful doula buddy is finally off duty as she now prepares for her own birth. We have been supporting Claire every step of the way through fertility, pregnancy and now I am so honoured to be Claire’s Postpartum Doula in this sacred space she has been creating. They have such a beautiful family and I can’t wait to meet the new addition

13.01.2022 I love, love baby wearing and today was extra special. Having the twins mum, dad & sister been shown how to do this, opens up their team of help to get on with life. Whether it be just to quickly get two kids to sleep fast, hanging laundry or out buying groceries it can be life changing. Thank you Amor for coming to refresh my memory, it is always great to see your happy face Buy your new wraps & carriers at Brooke Maree- Babywearing Education & Online Store

12.01.2022 What a better way to bring in the New Year than with a massage & a magnesium float @city.cave.bellavista Feeling relaxed & refreshed to bring in 2021. Happy New Year lovely people

11.01.2022 For all those years we had their poo on our hands, pay back

10.01.2022 DID YOU KNOW How cool is the humble Avo ! It is shaped like a pregnant belly & it also takes 9mths to grow, WOW. Full of healthy fats, twice as much potassium as bananas which may reduce the risk of preeclampsia So who is having avocados today? A smoothie, on toast, in a salad, luckily I like them in everything #pregnant #pregnancy #newborn #baby #mother #postpartum #pregnancyannouncement #alisonhdoula #motherhood #pregnancysecrets #sydneydoula

10.01.2022 A great deal for Hawkesbury mums to be

09.01.2022 Simply love been with this family The early arrival of their twins this week has been a rollercoaster but there is such a depth of love, they will overcome any of the obstacles

07.01.2022 Donate milk for bubs in nicu

07.01.2022 Just because its in the room, doesnt mean you have to lie on it UFO - upright forward open Even with an epidural, you can use the bed to labour and bear down in positions that help, not hinder. #Repost @birthing_matters... Get on the bed, lie on your back and push out that baby. Thats the way its done, right? So many times we see and hear how this is the ideal place and position to give birth. If we take a closer look though, youre lying down. Gravity isnt working in your favour and that baby is moving down and out, so giving them a helping hand by being upright will work wonders. Being on your back actually reduces the size of your pelvis, but being upright and forward widens the pelvis considerably. Remember UFO - upright, forward and open. There are ways to use the bed in labour, like this . Just because its in the room doesnt mean you have to lie down on it! : @the_student_midwife_journal Posted @withregram @kathrynbellbirthsupport See more

06.01.2022 So happy to be supporting this family during their postpartum. Can't wait to see them later in the week & nurture them in the early days of parenthood

06.01.2022 Today my daughter and I did a little Christmas cheer drop off to some of my beautiful clients. Some pate & my new Golden Milk, I hope you all have a great Christmas and keep sending me pic’s of those lovely babies that are growing up too quickly.

06.01.2022 For all the vbac mums out there, a good article

06.01.2022 To funny right !! Happy Friday everyone

05.01.2022 I love how this mama is refueling! That first meal can be something SERIOUS! lol Birth takes an enormous amount of energy - and also subsequently requires tissue repair - even with a completely natural and short birth. Theres squatting, walking, and the kind of mental focus that athletes will talk about spending a lifetime harnessing. And if you birth in hospital, chances are you werent permitted to eat during labor - which may have lasted hours (or days!). By the time... your baby is enjoying her first latch you might be what I call lumberjack level HUNGRY! So what does a good post-birth meal look like? Traditionally, meals contained warming and nourishing foods - usually with a combination of... protein (small amounts of chicken or eggs, or beans/legumes) fat (olive oil, ghee, coconut butter) carbohydrates (whole grains, winter squash, yams) veggies Protein helps with tissue repair and carbs and fats help increase your energy during recovery. Veggies provide the nutrients, like Vitamin C, that are restorative, promote collagen formation, and help repair tissue. Here are some examples of great meals to replenish and refuel post-birth: Homemade stew - chicken, veggie, or beef Steel cut oats + almond butter + fresh fruit Veggie quiche + avocado Chili + wholegrain bread + ghee Plus Broths, pate & easy to digest foods What was your post-birth meal? What are your memories of that meal? The tastes, the smells, the feelings? @helenjoygeorge Posted @withregram @doulaviewllc

03.01.2022 Are you pregnant, or have given birth since March 2020 and willing to share your experience? Please complete this survey: https://bit.ly/33v08jv Posted @withregram @hannah.dahlen So excited to finally launch our Birth in the Time of COVID-19 survey. Please share widely. We have a QR code that will take you straight into the survey or use the link below. I am working with an amazing national and international team on this including the amazing Professors Sue Kildea and Suzan...ne King who led the Queensland Flood study. This survey is in a league of its own and we hope many women answer it across Australia and will do the follow on surveys too. Are you pregnant OR have given birth since March 2020 (during the COVID-19 pandemic in Australia) AND are you willing to share your experience by completing this survey: https://surveyswesternsydney.au1.qualtrics.com//SV_8A1eQ6p Hannah Dahlen and her research team are conducting a research project (through Western Sydney University) into womens experiences of being pregnant, giving birth and parenting during the COVID-19 pandemic in Australia. We have already conducted in-depth interviews and we are keen to learn more by releasing this survey. It takes approximately 30 minutes to complete. Follow the link and add your voice to this study OR pass this on through your Facebook networks. All completed surveys where an email address has been provided will be entered into a raffle where 100 women will receive a $30 voucher. Link in bio now

02.01.2022 I honestly just marvel in the beauty of God's intellegent design. Check out the chambers in little ones heart and those lips! *********** ... Fetal echocardiography is the name of the test used to diagnose cardiac conditions in the fetal stage. Posted @withregram @doulaviewllc

02.01.2022 For our brand new parents, and those due in the next weeks: here are some fun facts for your December baby Tag your friends with December babies! I am a Sagittarius woman also #newbornbaby #Sagittariusbaby #Sagittarius #Capricornbaby #Capeicorn #waratah #narcissus #birthflower #turquoise #tanzanite #zircon #birthstone #metalrat #yearofthemetalrat #chinesezodiac #December2020 #dueinDecember #dueinDecember2020 #40weekspregnant #39weekspregnant #38weekspregnant #37weekspregnant #1weekold #2weeksold #3weeksold #newborn #duein2020 Posted @withregram @tellmebabyau #alisonhdoula

01.01.2022 Birth doesn't always go as planned. In fact you could say that one of the only consistent things about birth is that it will likely, in some way, not go as you have envisioned. Maybe you want a water birth but end up on land. Maybe you are expecting it to have a slow start and it comes on lightning fast. Maybe you want a vaginal birth but because of things beyond your control you end up in a cesarean.... If I could tell you one thing, it's that this experience will challenge you. It is more than a physical journey, it will challenge your emotional resilience as well. But you can do it. You've got it in you. Whatever you have to do, it's a part of your unique journey and no matter what that looks like I know you have done your best and IT IS ENOUGH. You can't fail at birth. You can only fail to see how incredible you are . . . . Picture: @elliana_allon Posted @withregram @freyabirth #birthjourney #birthplan #cesarean #cesareanbirth #csection #csectionmama #changethenarrative #youvegotthis #youvegotthismama #birthmatters @alisonhdoula #birthwarrior #birthgoddess #birthstories

01.01.2022 "Each person deserves a day away in which no problems are confronted, no solutions searched for. Each of us needs to withdraw from the cares which will not withdraw from us." Who feels like they deserve one of these days at the moment? #problem #noproblem #problemsolving #anxietyproblems #problemsolver #solutions #solution #naturalsolutions #solutionfocused #mindfulness #mindfulnessquotes #mindful #mindfulmovement #mindfulquotes #care #selfcare #carefree #selfcarethreads Posted @withregram @meditation_and_mindfulness