When I became pregnant with my first child I thought I was prepared.
I was a researcher and graduate student and just knew that I would be able to master birth and parenting. I devoured legitimate research, but also spent my downtime browsing content from search engines, forums, online due date clubs, apps, and message boards. Every other waking moment that wasn't spent buying cute baby clothes and decorating a themed nursery was spent ...
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People Pleasing Doesn’t Belong in Your Birth Plan
Are you sort of amazed about how many people have opinions about how you should conduct your pregnancy and even your birth experience? If you’re like most pregnant women, you’ve gotten advice from everyone everywhere, from your hairdresser to a strange guy in the elevator.
Advice really does come from a good place (most of the time). People want to be helpful by imparting their experience and perspective so your path can be easier. But geez, it can get ...
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We’re Not Your Advocates
One comment I often during interviews is that our potential clients are hiring a doula to be their advocates. They mention wanting us to stand up to their providers, speak for them, protect their birth plans and prevent unwanted interventions. In fact, I make sure to leave plenty of time to discuss this very topic with all the families inquiring about labor doula services. Why? Because we are not your advocates.
Clearly this brings up ...
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