The Doula in Sydney, Australia | Medical centre

The Doula

Locality: Sydney, Australia

Phone: +61 422 584 311

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• Medical and health
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• Pregnancy care centre

25.01.2022 T H E M I R A C L E O F Y O U It's no accident that you, yes, you reading this was put here. There could have been a billion other combinations of cells, but at conception, the magic manifested as YOU. Isn't that incredible to think about it. It is easy to forget that it is a miracle we are even here in the first place when the world is so noisy and demanding. The reality is we only get a limited amount of moments to experience this ride of life. How are you go...ing to make the most of today? Now, here are some fun facts from Dr Craig Niederberger, professor of urology at the University of Illinois at Chicago via CBS. Sperm start out looking pretty much like any cell in the body. But when it's time for take-off, they have half as much DNA as other cells in the body - which makes the immune system say, what's going on? To keep immune cells from wiping out these halvsies, the testicles employ specialised cells to surround them with a sort of "picket fence"Game of Thrones style. Not only do sperm need these "fences" for protection, but only half of them can swim in a straight line! The rest swim around in circles or bob along with the motion of the semen. Maybe the reason they can't swim well is that almost 90% of the sperm in the ejaculate is deformed! Two heads, two tails, huge heads, pinheads, coiled tails - you name it! The list of common deformities is a long one. And we're not done yet! Those tubes that connect the uterus to the ovaries? They have tiny hair cells that beat against the sperm as they try to swim - not in a straight line - with oversized, deformed heads, to try and make it. Tough journey. See more

25.01.2022 I can't get enough of en caul births at the moment. This fantastic phenomenon occurs fewer than 1 in 80 000 births. It is entirely safe, and in a lot of cultures, it is considered good luck. My dream is to see one in person. #thedoula #Repost @monetnicolebirths... I come back to this image every year because WOW...our bodies do incredible things. - This baby was born with her amniotic sac still intact. It broke as her body came out, and you can still see it over her face in this image. - These types of births are supposed to be incredibly rare BUT I've seen and documented dozens in my six years as a birth photographer (and I had an en caul birth myself in December). - I do think there is a connection between low intervention birthing and en caul births. The majority of the births I attend are midwife births where vaginal checks and AROM (rupturing the bag of water) are relatively uncommon. - I love seeing this glimpse into what babies look like inside the womb. Simply incredible. See more

25.01.2022 P R E N A T A L Y O G A Oh, hello there! It's been a while since I've posted consistently, I do apologise. To be honest with you, (as I always promise to be!) by the end of 2019, I was exhausted. It was a massive year that I LOVED so much, but I wasn't prioritising my health, I was running on empty. I have taken some time for myself, and oh baby am I back. I have SO MUCH EXCITING information, events, training and even a retreat to share with you. Now, I'm a gal... that loves structure when it comes to education, and by golly, my prenatal yoga classes are going to reflect that. Every week, there will be a different theme/ intention. For this week... Overcome doubt & fear and learn to choose confidence. We will explore this intention through asana (yoga postures), pranayama (breath) and meditation. Join me, shall you! Friday, 7 February 6:00 pm Woollahra @bodylove.pilates Saturday, 8 February 11:00 am Ashfield @livingflowyogaashfield If you can't take those classes, I do have three spots available for private/small group sessions. Please message me for more details. I'm glad to be back. #thedoula See more

24.01.2022 M A T E R N A L L I N E A G E Four generations in one photo Great Grandmother ... Grandmother Mother Me I come from strong, nurturing, beautiful women. Everything I am is because of their sacrifice. One day of the year isn't enough to give thanks; a lifetime of gratitude wouldn't even come close to what they deserve. Thank you for giving life to me. See more

24.01.2022 I love the maternity shoot @annamurrayphoto did for this couple. Their personalities are shining through; you can't help but smile! And aren't these two the cutest, it's been a lot of fun being their Doula. Baby will be here any day now; you guys are going to be epic parents. #thedoula #Repost @annamurrayphoto ... How cute are these two! I feel lucky when I meet couples like these two - who are just being themselves and share their stories and many laughs during the session. #annamurrayphotography See more

23.01.2022 E G G S Pretty wild to think about how a female baby is born with all the oocytes (eggs) that she will ever have. From only nine weeks gestation, a female fetus eggs begin to form. By 20 weeks gestation, a female babys reproductive system is fully developed, and her ovaries contain 6 to 7 million eggs. This is the most eggs she will ever have.... From 20 weeks until she is born, the fetus will lose the majority of her eggs, and she will be left with around 2 million at the time of birth. By the time she reaches puberty, she will have 300,000-400,000 eggs. Only about 350 of which will ever be viable options for fertilisation one every month from puberty until she reaches her menopause. When thinking about this incredibly complex system, consider that you were the lucky winner the 1 out of 7 million that made it through maturation, fertilisation, gestation, and birth. Anna Targonskaya, MD See more

22.01.2022 D I S C H A R G E I love these illustrations and post by @florafaunadoula. Would it be too much to get them framed and put on my wall, or #Repost @florafaunadoula... DISCHARGE Yep, discharge. Vaginal discharge is NORMAL, and is one of the most reliable signals of the status of your overall pelvic health and fertility. Think of discharge as being as necessary to the vagina as saliva is to your mouth. [SWIPE] In general, odorless discharge in any variation of white means that things are just fine. The type of discharge is fairly predictable depending on where you are in your menstrual cycle. NOTE: (1) Folks on hormonal birth control may notice different variations in discharge, or none at all. (2) Pregnant people usually notice a steady stream of heavier discharge due to increased hormone levels. (3) If going commando is more your style, you can take note of any discharge present on the tissue used to wipe after you urinate. Artwork adapted from @refinery29 #vaginaldischarge #discharge #fertility #hormones #eggwhites @ Balmain, New South Wales, Australia See more

21.01.2022 B I R T H O F A M O T H E R Today marks one year since this gorgeous woman became a Mother. Sarah's birth didn't end up how she originally envisioned it, as most births seem to do. I admired her flexible yet honest attitude towards it all. She has carried that adaptable energy into Motherhood which I find incredibly inspiring. Sarah, you are an energetic, hardworking, caring, an extraordinary human and Mother. Thank you for trusting me in your birth space. I'll nev...er forget the magic of watching you and Eli become parents. Happy Birth Day, Sarah. And Happy 1st Birthday, Maddie; you made a wise choice of picking these two for parents. @ Prince Of Wales Private Hospital See more

20.01.2022 M O T H E R B L E S S I N G Is an intimate ceremony that can give Mothers-to-be a sense of support and honour. You can think of it as a spiritual baby shower of sorts. Baby Shower says it all; its solely about the baby. We should be celebrating the mother-to-be to help empower them into the journey ahead! Here are some tips from my experience hosting these magical gatherings. ... Invite womxn that support the birth path you have chosen and that you feel safe around. This ceremony can be emotional and raw. We leave judgement, fear, and negativity at the door. . We are modern womxn who all need and want different things. Maybe you want a blend of a Motherblessing and a traditional baby shower; its up to you! It should leave you feeling supported, loved and uplifted. The most meaningful ceremonies have an element of surprise for the guest of honour. This event is about you, dont take on the hostess with the mostess role. Leave that to someone else so you can soak it all the love and goodness. Ill be posting a few of the Motherblessings Ive been so grateful to organise and host. I can not suggest this form of celebration enough. Not only does the birthing person leave feeling amazing, everyone involved shares the good vibes. @alicia.hetherington.photograph See more

19.01.2022 Let's talk about nipples, shall we? Nipples can have a few different variations: flat, protruding, inverted, or unclassified (multiple or divided). It's also possible to have one breast with a protruding nipple and the other with an inverted. It's babe, repeat till you believe it. Most nipple types don't have a notable impact on breastfeeding (it is, after all, breastfeeding, not nipple feeding). However, women with flat or inverted nipples mi...ght find it harder to nurse their babies due to breast changes that occur during pregnancy. For some women, the nipple would actually protrude more than usual during pregnancy. But for inverted-nipple cases, it would be pulled in more, hence making it harder for the baby actually to latch on them. But first, we need to figure out what kind of nipple you have. , . Many nipples will stiffen and protrude when stimulated. You can check to see if your nipples are truly flat or inverted. If you're able to coax your nipples out, then chances are your baby will be able to, too. Here's how to check: 1Place your thumb and forefinger on the edges of your areola, which is the dark area around your nipple. 2Squeeze gently. 3Repeat on your other breast. If your nipple is genuinely flat or inverted, it will flatten or retract into your breast instead of pushing out. Oh, and if you saw some nipple hair while you were down there, yes, very ordinary indeed. Those tiny bumps around your nipples are hair follicles, which both men and women have, so it only makes sense that hair grows there. It's okay, don't worry about it, but if it makes you feel self-conscious pluck, shave, wax them. What kind of nipples do you have? Mine are protruding. #Repost @curatedbygirls Swimming boobs By @olafbreuning Via @popmyeyes #curatedbygirls

19.01.2022 P R E N A T A L Y O G A Every Friday at 6:00 pm join me for prenatal yoga via @bodylove.pilates. Each week there is the different focus not only to provide a variety in your practice but to keep your changing body balanced. You're also guaranteed to learn valuable skills for labour, birth and postpartum. I hope to see you on your mat.

18.01.2022 D O G S A N D B A B I E S Name a better duo; I'll wait. Keep scrolling right to see my real-life client's human and fur babies who are BFFs. ... But how do you introduce your new human baby to the fur baby? I am not a dog trainer but have worked with many families that have been through this process. What we know is that even the most gentle pet can be unsure how to act with newborns. It's always best to air on the side of caution. There will always be an adjustment period. Dogs are creatures of routine, and a baby is a significant change, for everyone in the house. Here are just a couple of tips to get you started; however, there is a lot more to consider. : - No more sleeping on the bed or couch - Keep the dog out of the nursery - Ensure they have a designated area just for them to retreat to. Start training them to go there on command.-Lessen the amount of attention you give your dog two to three weeks before the baby comes home. . -Take your dog for walks with the pram while you're pregnant to allow them to get used to walking confidently alongside it. -Play sounds of babies cooing, crying, giggling, even screaming from various rooms in the home and increase the volume daily. Give them a deliciously treat to associate these sounds with good behaviour. -Not only do you want to make sure they will listen to your commands but don't underestimate them greeting guests at the door quietly and calmly. Imagine the dog barking at someone at the door, just after you got the baby to sleep. I've witnessed many poor parents go insane at this very situation. Prepare to prevent, trust me; it's worth the investment. @ Australia

18.01.2022 S E L F L O V E It takes real courage and effort to love yourself unconditionally in a society that makes money off of us thinking we aren't enough. There are some very talented people, who dedicate their lives to coming up with marketing messages that get into our heads for the sole purpose, to sell products and make money. They prey on self-hatred, it is a business, and it's booming more than ever. If we aren't aware, it's too easy to buy-in to what they are sellin...g. This feeling of not enough can become magnified during pregnancy when it's natural and expected to feel vulnerable. And then again during postpartum, as you heal and hormones are shifting, it can be more stringent than ever to choose and see love & gratitude. Especially when we hear/see messages like; 'get your pre-baby body back'. 'drop three sizes in 3 weeks' Wtf, you just made a HUMAN, that's badass, there are a lot of people that can't do that, in fact, its over half the population. Shouldn't we be celebrating what your body did, not trying to change it? It can be hard to remember the body changes, just like everything in life, nothing is permanent, ever. Even your breath right now is changing from the inhale to the exhale, nothing lasts in the current state. And if you made it to the end of this post, I dare you to say: "I AM ENOUGH just the way I am." see how it feels and now repeat it, please. And again, until you genuinely believe it. So, what if you were actually enough, just the way you are? Right now. And why does that sound so ridiculous for most of us? I can hear the "ya but...' or 'ya, I will be when...' loud and clear. Choosing to love yourself is a skill. It needs to be practised and exercised often. I am still working on it myself, which is why I'm leaning into things that support my journey into self-love. I am co-hosting a . We have three spots left. If you are interested in coming, please send me a message, or find the link in my bio. I'd love to share some self-loving good vibes.

18.01.2022 V A G O F H O N O R / / A friend who will tell you all the dirty deets to get you prepared for postpartum. ... Aka a Doula! Thank you @bebeactive for the inspo of my new title. See more

17.01.2022 H Y P N O B I R T H I N G I had the delight of spending the day on a virtual Hypnobirthing Course for Supportive Caregivers. Hypnobirth is as much about the mindset as it is about the technique for childbirth. Through relaxation techniques, visualizations, massage, self-hypnosis and breathing, the birthing person and their partner can have a positive, fulfilled experience. ... You don't know what you dont know. Education will lead you into an informed choice, and when you understand the process that is unfolding, there is less fear, you have the power. Then birth may even be a positive transformational event. But like any other major milestone in our life, we need to prepare. There is a bit of work that needs to be done before the big day. If you are thinking about taking a course on Hypnobirth or you are a practitioner within the birthing space, chat with Kerry of @thehypnobirthingmum. She is intelligent, articulate, caring, kind and very accommodating. Thank you for your delivery. I got so much out of today! See more

16.01.2022 M O V E M E N T Movement is a massive part of my life, it has even become an aspect of my career! It wasn't always like this; I wasn't an athlete; I wasn't a dancer; exercise wasn't my thing. To be honest, for the majority of my life, I had an unhealthy relationship with exercise and diets. I used to use exercise as a punishment but also use every excuse possible not to do it then feel guilty of course, the vicious cycle. Often the narrative in my mind would be "Oh, I ate b...ad food, I better burn calories". "My stomach is too big; I have to work out". "I know I'll be happy if I just lose 5kgs". No wonder I wasn't into it. Something shifted when I found yoga; it felt good; it felt like falling in love. I now realise I was, in fact, falling in love, with myself. Practising different styles of yoga for years, I then found pilates. It made me stronger, stronger than ever in my mind and body. It deepened my yoga practice which then lit my life on fire in the best possible way. I knew I wanted to share this life-changing system with other people in particular with other women. And yes sometimes those negative voices creep back into my mind, but I simply remind myself:Movement is medicine. Endorphins can fix any bad day. Exercise because you love yourself. Weekly classes with me Pregnancy Prenatal reformer 7:30 am @bodylove.pilates Prenatal yoga 5:30 pm @bodylove.pilates Prenatal yoga 10:45 am @livingflowyogaashfield Postpartum Mums and Bubs Yoga 10:45 am @livingflowyogaashfield - from November 1 Mums and Bubs Reformer 10:30 am @bodylove.pilates For everyone else! Whip it (high-intensity reformer pilates) 6:30 am @bodylove.pilates Beginners yoga 12:15 pm @livingflowyogaashfield Whip it (high-intensity reformer pilates) 9:30 am Total bodylove reformer 12:30pm @bodylove.pilates Open yoga 7:00 am @eggoftheuniverse Flow yoga 12:15 pm Yin yoga 1:30 pm @livingflowyogaashfield #thedoula #Repost @bodylove.pilates @danhilburn See more

15.01.2022 A G O O D B I R T H I took this photo of Hunter moments after he moved from inside his mother's body to on top of her. He was comforted by the warmth of her skin, surrounded by love and pretty tuckered out from his big journey. As I reflect on this birth, one of the things I cherish most is what the birthing person said after. "This was the best day of my life."... Even writing these words, I get quite emotional. I sincerely believe everyone deserves to look back on the birth of their child and say the same. So may I ask, what does a good birth mean to you? Who is there, and what do you want the vibe to be? Whatever you have in mind, I'm sure it will be different from someone else. Our preferences and desires are unique and individual. It's vital to communicate all of this to your birthing team. We will speak about how to have a positive birth in my Virtual Prenatal Workshop on Sunday, 24 May. Link is in my bio, or DM me, and I'll send you the details. See more

15.01.2022 It's almost been a month since I snapped this photo of a Newborn Mother. This stunning woman is one of my best friends and the most ambitious person I've ever met. She has inspired me to start my own business, given me endless pep talks and is always my biggest cheerleader. Molly Moo, you've blossomed into such a beautiful mother, you're doing a fantastic job. I'm so honoured to be by your side through this wonderful whirlwind journey of life. James was so clever to pick you ...as his Mother. I love you so much. #thedoula #Repost @moirahughescouture Welcome to the world baby James. It has been a whole week of a new love I never knew existed. Here is to a lifetime of adventures together Special thank you to @thedoula.co #babyboy

15.01.2022 B R E A S T F E E D I N G The topic deserves a daily post; it's a massive subject. Like everything in health, there is a lot of conflicting information out there; it can be very confusing in an already vulnerable time. But a few things are for sure. It won't be easy, at least not at first. At some point, you'll want to quit, that doesn't mean you're failing. You'll be hungry and thirsty all the time. Everyone has an opinion about breastfeeding, and no doubt will be g...iving you unsolicited advice. At some point, breastfeeding will come to an end, and that is a very personal choice when that time is. So you do you, babe. #thedoula #Repost @verylacey In case youre wondering what long weekends look like when youre a mom (hint: HELP ME / BRING ME CAKE) #momlife #itneverends #buthappylongweekendtho See more

14.01.2022 A N G E R A raw emotion I don't often experience, but in the spirit of being honest, here we are. I have tried to post five different things related to birth this week that have been taken down by Instagram. ... Part of my mission is to normalise bodies, births and the realities that come with being a human. I don't want anyone to feel shame or embarrassment because of a society that believes we should hide away our bodies unless they are "perfect" or shouldn't speak about things that are "gross" or "dirty". I want to see real bodies, lumps, bumps and all. And listen to stories of what happens throughout the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, birth, postpartum and beyond. No more fake censored versions, the squeaky clean photos that fill our feeds, I WANT REAL, even if it's messy or uncomfortable. Vagina Vulva Nipples Blood Discharge Hair to name a few items ARE ALL NORMAL Why are we being still being censored, why is this platform deciding what is ok for us to see? While I'm frustrated, this is only feeding my fire, so buckle up! @instagram stop taking down posts of birth PLEASE. See more

13.01.2022 Cuddles with you make my day, Hunter. I'm grateful to watch you grow little one.

11.01.2022 Y I N & R E I K I E V E N T What have you done recently to love yourself? I think it's safe to say self-love doesn't come naturally for the majority of us. We need to work at it, the same way we would work on any other relationship. I hear women say all the time how they often forget to look after themselves because they are so busy looking after others. Sometimes we have to do what we have to do, but that is never sustainable. Eventually, we end up with an empty ta...nk. This year I want to provide others ( and myself !) with more love, more kindness, more compassion. On February 15 ( , !) my good friend Mailys and I will be hosting a Yin Yoga and Reiki workshop. : Yin yoga practise that is designed to target the heart meridians and cultivate love & kindness. This will be layered with Reiki healing; non-adjustment energic and hands-on assists that take you deeper into the experience. You will leave feeling completely relaxed, calm and connected to your body. ' : A guided hands-on restorative yin yoga class conducted by Paige Isley Reiki healing by Mailys Pauletto Chai Tea Raw Chocolate : A water bottle Journal & pen Eye pillow All props included ( mat, blankets, blocks and bolster) : OM Collective Sydney 40B Birmingham Street Alexandria, NSW 2018 : Saturday Feb 15, 2020 5:30 pm 7:30 pm This event isn't pregnancy or postpartum focused; however, the yoga practice can be adapted to be safe for anybody. And in my opinion, mothers and or mothers to be DESERVE the most self-love of all. The link is in my bio or sends me a message, and I'll message you the Eventbrite link to secure your ticket. I hope you see you there!

11.01.2022 You know what is pretty cool, the clitoris is designed to bring a woman pleasure. That is its sole purpose not reproduction. It wouldn't be there unless we were meant to use it. #thedoula #Repost @renderburger Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder!... ..................... #3d#satisfying #digitalart #rendering #digital #design #hot #art @thecolorshift @popmyeyes #renderburger See more

10.01.2022 B R E A S T F E E D I N G Surely it will just come naturally right? Hmm, not for everyone. One of the most stressful experiences I hear from newly born mothers is feeding. It hurts, also frustrating, and many things can go wrong and when they do, oh, boy. ... So what is the solution, education and preparation? Yup. I recommend all my clients do a breastfeeding/chestfeeding class before baby arrives, that's right before, well before. You don't want to be reading google at 2:00 am while your hungry baby is screaming in your sleep-deprived ear. It is also a magnificent idea to reach out to an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) prior to the baby being born to establish a relationship with a practitioner who lives and breathes evidence-based information on this topic. (I LOVE lactation consultants and will be studying to be one very soon ). Want a recommendation for a Lactation Consultant, shoot me a DM. And if you have your favourite LC tag them in comments below. See more

10.01.2022 V I R T U A L P R E N A T A L W O R K S H O P I'm super excited to share this one with you! Calm and Connection Prenatal Workshop. A blend of prenatal yoga and Q&A workshop to learn tips & tricks for labour. All online from the comfort of your home ... What to Expect: Pregnancy Safe Vinyasa Sequence Restorative Yoga Breathwork Guided Yoga Nidra to Connect to the Baby We will then take a short break, enough time to go to the toilet & make a cup of tea. To then discuss: How to have a beautiful birth during COVID-19 Natural pain relief methods and when to use them Movement for specific stages of labour And any questions you have! Sunday, May 24, 2pm3:30pm (AEST) $15 Book via @livingflowyogaashfield website or send me a DM, and I'll shoot you the direct MBO link to reserve your spot. See more

10.01.2022 I N C O N T I N E N C E One of the joys of postpartum because giving birth wasn't hard enough. Labour and delivery may stretch, strain or even tear the muscles and the supporting tissues that hold the uterus, bladder and rectum in their proper place. The nerves may also be stretched and injured, weakening the signals allowing muscles to work correctly. Not everyone will experience this, but it is common, so no shame we are in this together! There are also pre-pregnancy risk... factors we can consider, do you have a history of chronic thrush endometriosis excruciating periods painful intercourse frequent urinary tract infections and a few other things to consider as well. While urinary incontinence after birth is common, it doesn't mean you have to accept that this is how it's going to be. It has a contributing factor to in postpartum mental health, because who wants to pee their pants, right? Working with a women's health physio can be the most effective form of preventative and ongoing treatment. Physios know muscles, that's their thing the bladder, that's a muscle, pelvic floor, it's a sling of muscles and the uterus yup that's a muscle too. The best time to get assessed is before or during pregnancy to have a baseline of your pelvic floor health before giving birth. The second best time is now! Get checked by a women's health physio; I recommend going to see the ladies @physiotherapyclinic in Bondi Junction. They also have an excellent childbirth education course; it's one of my favourites I have done. @bornready_physioclinic. #thedoula #Repost @goop : @gleesonpaulino via @c__l__o See more

10.01.2022 #Repost @thisisloom BREAST IMPLANTS + #BREASTFEEDING (photo by @hart_leshkina) Do you have breast implants and concerns about your ability to breastfeed? Here are some of the most FAQs we hear at LOOM: Q: Can I breastfeed after having breast augmentation (lift/implant) surgery? ... A: Yes! Most women can work without any problem at allthe operation shouldnt affect your ducts or areas involved in milk production. Q: But is it possible I wont be able to breastfeed? A: There is always that possibility, but this depends on *where* the incision was made. If your surgeon made the cut under your breast and placed the implants behind the pectoral muscle, you should be good to go. If, however, the reduction was built around the areola or in the armpitand the implant was placed on top of the pectoral muscleyou could have some trouble with sensation around the nipple, letdown, or milk supply. Q: Will breasts augmentation impact my amount? A: Possibly, but this goes for any surgery, whether it be a reduction, biopsy or development. Q: Will nursing affect the look of my breasts? A: If you have implants, breastfeeding should not change the look or shape of your breasts. I'm obsessed with everything @thisisloom is doing for women, definitely my future #clinicgoals #thedoula See more

09.01.2022 It's Sunday, and there isn't a cloud in the sky plus I'm about to get my favourite cup of coffee. I've never related to a baby more in my life. Enjoy Sunday Funday, everyone!

09.01.2022 O N L I N E P R E N A T A L Y O G A So it's official, we are on the @bodylove.pilates schedule, and I am so pleased to share what I am incredibly passionate about with you. ... : Book your spot via Bodylove Pilates Mindbody Online. I'd love you to have some props for class but don't feel like you need fancy equipment. You'll need : Yoga Bolster orEither a thick couch cushion or lay two pillows on a towel side by side and then roll up the towel to form a sausage shape. You can also roll up a longitudinally folded blanket and then tie it up with a belt or rope. Two Blocks or Two small, empty trash cans turned upside down. A stack of books or magazines would do the trick. Or a chair placed in front of your mat could serve the purpose, too. Strap or Necktie, a scarf, a robe tie, or a towel. Also have a blanket or two, music playing (I'll be sending you a new playlist every week) and dim lighting if possible. My prenatal yoga classes are designed to help you prepare for labour and birth; it's most effective if you can create a similar environment to which you will be birthing your baby. And for anyone who isn't pregnant and or safety past the postpartum rehab stage, I am also teaching general pilates classes that promote a holistic connection to the mind and body. , : & , : 30 minutes to get that mindful burn, oh yes! If you have any questions, shoot me a message.

08.01.2022 T W I N S I'm SO EXCITED to be this beautiful woman's doula and to make it even more exciting; she is expecting two girls! I have been diving deep into everything twin related and here are my favourite fun facts:... Twins have been shown to begin interacting in the womb as early as 14 weeks Which makes sense that 40% of twins will invent a language of their own! Identical twins share a placenta, whereas fraternal twins have their placenta Identical (monozygotic) and Fraternal (dizygotic) may be the most common types of twins we see, but there are more; Mirror Image twins, Half-Identical twins, Mixed Chromosome twins, Superfetation, Superfecundation Identical twins do not have identical fingerprints The highest rate for multiple births is in Nigeria The average time between the delivery of the first and second twin is 17 minutes Mothers of twins may live longer! Bonus animal fact - Polar bears most commonly birth twins. They very rarely birth singletons or triplets. Do you have experience with twins, share it in the comments! And Patty, I'm so proud and honoured to be your Doula! You're going to be such a beautiful kind mother; those girls are lucky to have you and Jeremy. ! See more

07.01.2022 W A T E R B I R T H There are many reasons why women are drawn to water during labour and birth. It provides an environment similar to the amniotic sac, which can ease a baby's stress during delivery, and may increase reassurance and sense of security as they transition earthside. But let's not forget about the many benefits for the real VIP aka The Mother: ... The effect of buoyancy lessens a mother's body weight, allowing free movement and new positioning. Buoyancy promotes more efficient uterine contractions and improved blood circulation resulting in better oxygenation of the uterine muscles, less pain for the mother, and more oxygen for the baby. Immersion in water often helps lower high blood pressure caused by anxiety. The water seems to reduce stress-related hormones, allowing the mother's body to produce endorphins which serve as pain-inhibitors. Water causes the perineum to become more elastic and relaxed, reducing the incidence and severity of tearing and the need for an episiotomy and stitches. Since the water provides a greater sense of privacy, it can reduce inhibitions, anxiety, and fears. If water birth is something you are interested in, it needs to be planned before your due date. Like anything in health, there are always benefits and risks. May I suggest you speak to your Healthcare providers and Doula when deciding if water birth is for you. And if your baby is already here, did you have a water birth? Share your story in the comments! See more

06.01.2022 I have heart explosions when my doula babies come to class! Look at this cutie pie . I think I love her as much as I love her gorgeous mama bear @around.wellness #thedoula

04.01.2022 R I N G O F F I R E When the baby's head begins to crown, there is a stinging or burning sensation that comes into play as the vaginal opening begins to stretch. When you feel it, that's your cue to relax, which is very difficult in the moment. Have your partner or doula help you slow down; deep breathing, limp muscles and if you are in the bath or shower have water flowing on the perineum (the region between the vaginal opening and the anus). There is no set time frame ...for this phase of labour and after the ring of fire, most women will feel a numbness in the region, and that doesn't mean anything is wrong. Please remember, when you feel the ring of fire sensation you're about to meet your baby, so hold on you're almost there! #thedoula #Repost @pinksoy is your coffee mug this hot See more

04.01.2022 I was lucky to get a chance to learn from Tiffany Cruikshank of @yoga_medicine on their Women's Health Yoga Teacher Training Module earlier this year. It is a MASSIVE subject; we are such complex creatures. The profound changes females go through every single month is incredible. The more I learn, the more I am in awe that we can go about our daily lives with so much going on at a cellular level at all times. I've worked in western me...dicine as a nurse and now working in a slightly different model of health and wellness; I offer support that combines the best of both worlds. Based on TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) and using evidence-based knowledge of the female reproductive cycle, my fertility yoga technique is about holistically supporting the body to achieve and sustain a pregnancy. In our sessions, we will look closely at the state of your general health and reproductive cycle over a few months tracking cervix changes, cervical mucus, BBT (Basal body temperature), quality of menstruation and emotional indications. There is so much information we can extract if we pay attention to the body and mind. Once we have the full picture view, you'll be prescribed specific Asanas (yoga postures), Meditation and Pranayama (breathing practices) that can further promote the health of your cycle and success of implantation. I am now opening spots for private clients in 2020! Send me a message if you would like more information or have any questions. #Repost @birthbossco @hollieholdenlove | image @penelope.benson

04.01.2022 S E X Are you looking for a natural way to induce labour? It appears there may be three ways that sex could be a fantastic tool. The prostaglandins in the semen... The female orgasm that stimulates uterus activity And the increase in natural oxytocin from sexual activity So, if there are no other health considerations, you may want to attempt unprotected, vaginal sex as a means to induce labour, as long as the membranes are intact! But, just like whenever you have sex, make sure your sexual partner has been tested for sexually transmitted infections. See more

02.01.2022 Join me every Thursday at 10:45 am @livingflowyogaashfield for Mums and Bubs Yoga. It is one of my favourite classes to teach; helping women find ease in an often uncomfortable time but also because I have a bunch of little smiling faces starring at me for 60 minutes. (This sweetheart is one of my doula babies ) And maybe you're wondering what is Mums and Bubs Yoga, and is it for me? Everyone teaches yoga, in general, very different. It's important for you to find a cl...ass that you actually enjoy, otherwise what's the point! What you'll get in my class A yoga class focused on the mother's wellbeing Safe postpartum movements to help rebuild and restore the mind-body, sometimes it's vinyasa or yin or a bit of both! Pranayama, breathe work An extra-long Shavasana for much-needed rest A safe space for you to sweat, feed, change dirty nappies, laugh, cry, sleep, connect with like-minded women, and whatever else you need to do! What you won't get Singing Dancing Baby voices A class that is focused on entertaining the baby I chose to structure Mums and Bubs like this because I want you to reconnect with yourself. Everything is about the baby now, take 1 hour out of your week for it to be about you. You deserve it. #thedoula See more

02.01.2022 S U R R E N D E R I've been quiet recently, for a reason. I know your life and Instagram feed is entirely saturated with information and news about COVID-19. It is here, and highly contagious, but fear and anxiety are even more infectious. It's been a bittersweet reminder that we were never in control. We don't know for sure what is going to happen. Nothing is a guarantee in life; it is a constant state of flow. The only certainty is the breath that you are taking right n...ow. Which may I say, is similar to the process of pregnancy, birth and parenthood. We can prepare by reading all the books, attend the classes, implement every safety measure imaginable but ultimately need to surrender into the unknown. There is no way of knowing what will exactly happen tomorrow, but I hope you find peace is remembering we aren't meant to know either. When we resist uncertainty and change, we create suffering. It is now we need to practice the skill of adaptability married with grace. Even in these turbulent circumstances, you still can have a glorious birth story, and I genuinely believe that. However, there is even more unfair pressure on Midwives and OBs now; they are working harder with fewer resources. Building a holistic birth team has never been so vital. As well as in-person services, I also have a virtual doula service that can include prenatal yoga and meditation to keep you calm in these chaotic waters. That is entirely flexible to these rapidly changing times. If finances are your barrier, let's have a conversation about how we could make it work. Every woman deserves a beautiful birth. WE ARE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER.

02.01.2022 W O W Just, wow, life is beautiful. That is all.