Showing posts with label labor. Show all posts
Showing posts with label labor. Show all posts

Friday, March 27, 2020

Myth busting on Preparing for Birth and natural induction. Does it work??? How?

Myth Busting 


I am not a Dr. I am not suggesting for you to go against Dr. orders or suggestions. I am supplying you with information that will help you make an inform decision. I believe for every medical intervention there is a natural way. We must remember pharmaceutical drugs originated from somewhere. Before there was big pharma there was the Herbalist and Healer in the villages and towns. God created all things for us to use in some capacity. 

Over the years as a practicing Doula, Massage therapist, placenta encapsulation and Women's Health and Wellness herbalist, I have had many clients ask questions about preparing for labor and birth; or how to avoid medical induction. As I have supported more families, I have noticed consistently there has been some things that has stood out in terms of have a successful experience in natural induction.

Today’s blog will be about 2 common natural labor prep/induction methods. 

Myth or fact: For generations Midwives and village medicine people have advised women to consume many things like foods, fruits and herbs?  FACT

There are a couple natural induction methods that stood out to me. To date they are currently used and have been found by many women to be effective.  The big question is what the science behind it is and does it truly work. If you are pregnant this is about more than getting this baby out. Lol! though I know that is the end game, it is about understanding what this is doing to you and your body. Women have for generations been advised by people on what to do. Some are not qualified to offer advise but it doesn't necessarily stop them. So, lets figure this thing out.

 Finally, her are your answers. Also, you will find listed below references to all information provided. 

Have you been told about the benefits of Dates and Red raspberry leaf tea? If not let’s change that now. 

Dates 

If you have a sweet tooth, then this is the fruit for you. The date originates from the Date Palm Tree. Dates are a natural form of sugar. Dried dates are the better option over any chocolate or ice cream fix you may be looking for. Something to remember. when you are craving something it typically means your body is looking for the healthier version of that craving. Example: If your craving chocolate, your body is probably craving magnesium. 

Dates are packed with Folate. this is great because it can reduce the chances of birth defects. Iron is great for preventing anemia, Vitamin K great to give you and baby strong bones and Potassium helps to relax the blood vessels and lower blood pressure. It is also known for giving a very fatigued pregnant Mommy some much need energy. 

Researchers discovered that the women who ate six dates a day for 4 weeks had a shorter first stage of labor, a higher cervical dilatation, and more had intact membranes upon arrival at the hospital. (In other words, their cervix was riper for giving birth.) (Healthline.com) 

Now remember most are consuming Dates in a dried state. Dried Dates like all fruit can increase your caloric intake and are high in sugar. So, you need to be careful if you are a diabetic or have been diagnosed with gestational diabetes. You must stay safe and monitor your consumption of dates and limit them to no more than 6 daily. 

Don't worry there are other options if this one doesn't fit you. 

I have experienced many Beautiful Mommies sit around and pop these sweet things with fingers crossed hoping to help have a beautiful intervention free birth with little discomfort.


Red Raspberry Leaf Tea

We also, have Red Raspberry leaf tea. This is delicious and very helpful for many reasons. Whether you’re pregnant attempting to get the party started by naturally inducing your labor or you are simply looking to have a healthy womb, this tea can help. Ok let’s get into the beauty of Red Raspberry leaf tea.

 Red Raspberry leaf tea is an AMAZING herb. This beauty is considered a woman's herb. PLEASE DO NOT consume during the 1st trimester in large amounts. If you do please no more than one cup daily. Red can help men as well. Their benefit is to increase fertility. Red Raspberry leaf tea also is known as Rubus Idaeus she is a volatile oil this means she is aromatic, she is also an antiseptic, anti-microbial this all means she can help fight off infections. She is also known for use of Urinary tract infections. Red can stimulate nerve ending to relieve stress. She is also a Tannin. Tannins can bind proteins that are present in the skin and mucous membrane. This protein is Albumin. Tannins treat irritation, inflammation. She is also filled with Polyphenols; she can help cells from being damaged.  

Wow!! I feel like I said a mouth full. There is more. Raspberry leaves contain fragarine, a plant compound that helps tone and tighten muscles in the Pelvic area, including the walls of your uterus, this can help make delivery easier and may reduce the menstrual cramping caused by the spasms of these muscles.

Red contains Vitamin B (Folate), C - ascorbic acid, is necessary for the growth, development and repair of all body tissues. It's involved in many body functions, including formation of collagen, absorption of iron, the immune system, wound healing, and the maintenance of cartilage, bones, and teeth, Potassium, magnesium- reduces blood pressure, improve mood, reduce anxiety, reduce blood sugar, reduce risk if heart disease and improve migraine recovery, zinc-may effectively reduce inflammation, boost immune health, reduce your risk of age-related diseases, speed wound healing and improve acne symptoms. Phosphorus- build strong teeth, manage how your body stores and uses energy, reduce muscle pain after exercise, filter out waste in your kidneys, grow, maintain, and repair tissue and cells, produce DNA and RNA — the body's genetic building blocks, Iron -prevent anemia, including general energy and focus, gastrointestinal processes, the immune system, and the regulation of body temperature, Calcium is required for vascular contraction and vasodilation, muscle function, nerve transmission, intracellular signaling and hormonal secretion, and antioxidants.

While red raspberry leaf tea is typically recommended for the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, some women use Red to help with nausea and vomiting in the first trimester as well. The American Pregnancy Association also states that drinking the tea may reduce the need for interventions during childbirth. It also helps to bring down the placenta and help produce breastmilk. It can stop diarrhea and hemorrhaging.

Research suggests that the most optimal time to start drinking red raspberry leaf tea is at 32 weeks gestation. One study showed that taking 2.4 mg per day of red raspberry leaf in tablet form appears to be safe. As a tea, 1–3 cups per day are appropriate (Healthline.com) It’s recommended to limit your intake to 1 cup per day if you choose to consume it earlier in pregnancy. (Healthline.com)

Like all things you should consume it in moderation. However, if your experiencing any side effects after drinking the tea please stop consuming this Beauty. Everything isn't for everyone. If you experience Braxton Hicks contractions during pregnancy or have spotting in the second or third trimesters, you should also discontinue use.

I get excited every time I discuss beautiful herbs so if it was to much information I apologize. I hope you find this information helpful.

If your in need of a Doula or Placenta Encapsulator or Women’s Health and Wellness Herbalist please do not hesitate to call or email.


references 




https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21280989

https://evidencebasedbirth.com/evidence-eating-dates-to-start-labor

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/red-raspberry-leaf-tea



Peaceful Birthing Doula

Educate, Encourage, Empower and Serving Women

http://www.peacefulbirthingdoula.com

peacefulbirthingdoula@gmail.com

(630)481-6079

Schedule: https://squareup.com/appointments/book/7V52CNRZR2T3Z/peaceful-birthing-doula-addison-il

www.peacefulbirthingdoula.com

www.facebook.com/peacefulbirthingdoula

www.twitter.com/peacefulbdoula

www.instagram.com/peacefulbdoula





Thursday, March 1, 2018

VBAC GODDESS


This Momma from the moment I met her was determine to have her precious baby the way she would like. She did everything those that want to achieve a beautiful birth would do. She found a VBAC friendly Dr. Even when she was told her baby was breached she didn't stop. Immediately after she got the news she was on the search for a labor support person a Doula. I was so blessed and fortunate to be selected at Peaceful Birthing Doula.

This Beautiful Momma did everything you could think of under these circumstances. Momma D used techniques from Spinning Baby,Chiropractic, Acupuncture with Elemental Chiropractic and Massage. Finally, baby agreed to corporate. After meeting with this family I new this would be an unbelievable experience. Momma D Husband is HILARIOUS. I call him the pace master. If you have space to pace he will utilize it. He is so concerned for the welfare of his Beautiful Wife and Mother of his children that he couldn't  manage when it came to complex topics.

http://www.peacefulbirthingdoula.com
VBAC GODDESS 
Flipping sunny side up Baby
I would have to give this father to be a disclaimer when ever the conversation would need to get heavy. During Peaceful Birthing Doula prenatal visits we discuss everything from final days of pregnancy, what may occur, labor and the possible happenings in birth. They were familiar with most of it because the previous birth allowed her to go in labor. However their beautiful Princess C was breach and changed the plan. Which is how we ended up here.

As I received the phone call from the Momma at 9:51pm I knew what the call was about. Supporting this mommy was so much fun. Our time together was full of home work and dealing with difficult thoughts. I knew that I would have to be prepare to not just Doula Momma, I also had to Doula Dad. LOL!! I told him the #1 rule was not to faint.  

We arrived at the Central DuPage Hospital quickly. As I was heading to them I knew there would be excitement and concern from both. The first birth wasn't like any of the beautiful stories. I realized soon after arriving that Momma D was experiencing back labor. We start with hip squeeze, shower and hands and knees. This Baby had me pull out all the stops. We did some rebozo sifting and this baby laughed in my face.

http://www.peacefulbirthingdoula.com
Pace Master regrouping & collecting his thoughts 

This Beautiful Momma and her concerned husband were so connected. His genuine concern and desire for her to have the birth she wanted and deserved was so wonderful to witness. You could see he understood her fight and her respected her fight. This couple has had such a respect for each others individuality . The Husband is a worrier and pacer that just want to make sure his Wife is safe and in the best care. This Momma loves her husband and really just want him to see her strong in this space so he will not worry. This Baby, however, decided no matter what you all want I feel like I need to do me and that is for you to leave me be.

As we approach 6cm I was confident that I had won the battle and Baby had given in to me. Ha! This baby has tenacity. This baby has truly decided he will win. You have to love the drive right?! As we continued it was clear that baby wasn't able to make the journey with out help. So this VBAC Warrior did all she could and she is still very much so a Warrior and maybe baby #3 will follow the game plan. Lol!!! Right Dad??!!


Peaceful Birthing Doula
Educate, Encourage, Empower and Serving Women
http://www.peacefulbirthingdoula.com
peacefulbirthingdoula@gmail.com
(630)481-6079





Monday, January 8, 2018

Wait what?




Wait What?

Today was an amazing day. As a birth worker we always enjoy the experience of laboring with families and having amazing births. You ask what is an amazing birth consist of? Well, an amazing birth is when a Mom is strong in mind, she know her limits and she is willing and able do the simple thing allow her body to work. We of course know the Birth itself is amazing that goes without saying.
Mrs. P is due September 17th and she apparently had the time of her life the past few days due to the most wonderful birthday celebration with her Husband. It is funny how when I first met them I was left with a lot of unanswered questions, do they like me? will they hire me? what did they think of me? They were a very pleasant couple. It was very clear Mrs. P will have the final word. If you knew this Mom you would believe all her words are the final word. this mom is not just beautiful and pregnant she is brilliant and has a very suddle since of humor.

As time past during the pregnancy I was excited and wonder what to expect with this couple. I was under the assumption that I would have plenty of time to prepare for their big day. This handsome little fella didn't think I needed to prepare.

I knew my holiday weekend would be a blast I just didn't know what would make it a blast. Lol!!
I was just finished breakfast as the phone starts to ring. I hear her say "I am leaking fluid and the midwife says to come to the hospital to get checked". I was having contractions last night". Ok! So,here is how the holiday is starting. I inform them it could be amnio fluid or baby could be on bladder once they test the fluid call me and let me know what they tell you. I know it could go either way, I just decided it is time to get ready. I was not sure what to expect but I knew I need to be ready just in case. My next call was being told that they were being admitted and to come to hospital.

This is a holiday weekend heading into Chicago. This was the biggest joke ever. It literally took forever. I made it and Mom labor had started without any assistance. I was excited because we were able to avoid any induction. Even thou she wasn't excited about the discomfort, she was definitely excited that she was able to avoid the Pitocin. The birth plan was clear, it appears that her request was heard in the heavens because there was no need to induce. Everything has started naturally. The labor is full force and has gone from 0 to 60 in the time it took me to commute to the hospital. This Mom was strong and hanging in there as best she could.

It was clear that Dad was concerned for his beautiful Wife. She sat on the edge of the bed working on her breath as I entered the room. The contraction were a little more than she would have liked. I immediately drop my bags to start working on making her comfortable. Baby was clearly in a not so favorable position. I remember the look she gave me of relief . We did everything we could to give her comfort. Baby wasn't interested in moving to make Mom feel any better. Back labor is our culprit. Oh! how I dislike back labor. Immediately, we go hands and knees with a bit of rebozo  and some hip squeezes. I was sure this would be our remedy. This little bundle wasn't interested in moving right away. After a while it was clear this labor is progressing and Mom is dilating at a steady rate.  Our issue would still be the contractions that are at 2 minutes long and a steady 5 minutes apart.

She is interested in her options after we weren't able to get relief from the contractions. I remind her no matter what your choice this is your birth. You need to do what is best for you and baby and if you need to have assistance relaxing then you should do what is best.

Mom is comfortable and resting now. Before we knew it she went from 6cm to 8cm and 30 minutes after she was complete and ready to push. Finally Baby is cooperating with us. Baby comes out and to have been in this room at that very moment was such a joy. There were so many emotions and Love in the room. This Mom and Dad were a picture of Love.

The Birthing room was filled with such Love and Joy. I had to contain my tears so I could help the family. Every family has their moment that is a very emotional birth and every time I am affected and it always feel like it is the very first time I have every supported a family. I love being there for family.

This family was wonderful and full fun and Love. I can't wait to see them along with our little handsome bundle of Joy that caused this Beautiful mom a little trouble.

Tunisia Macklin
Peaceful Birthing Doula
Educate, Encourage, Empower and Serving Women
http://www.peacefulbirthingdoula.com
peacefulbirthingdoula@gmail.com
(630)481-6079


Tuesday, December 26, 2017

Rock the Birth

When you are uncertain about what's to come it can be a little overwhelming. When your not sure what it will look like, feel like or how it will affect you it can cause many emotions. One thing I say is at the end of it all you have the most beautiful experience. You will have the most beautiful feeling you will every remember. You will have undescribable Joy. The Moment this Momma called me we clicked. I remember after experience a moment of sharing and connecting I felt the need to hug this Momma to show her that I understood and empathized with how she felt.

Being a massage therapist and doula I have come to notice that I can relate to and empathize with how she feel. I have always been one who can instinctively respond with appropriate support and emotions for those I am around.

The one thing that was wonderful was she understood she was vulnerable in her situation. Her partner was in Japan and she was seeking support. She was in need of someone who could encourage her and support her as she embarked on this unfamiliar territory.

For many child birth is intimidating. Child Birth can intimidate especially when your doing it without the person you need the most. This Momma may have been a little anxious, however she never backed down from the challenge of birth. I was excited when she finally called to tell me she was 4cm. Her contractions were not rhythmic however we expected this from her family history. The excitement was high. I cleared the remainder of the day and headed to her immediately. I called the back up just in case she could get to her before me. I have a feeling the Momma was going to be a quick go.

I was excited as I enter her room. I could see the look of relief. This Mom looked like a classic beauty who was laboring. She had the support of her village. I believe there is power in your village. The Mother, Grandmother and 2 Aunties. There was so much love in the room. There was laughter, smiles and lots of Love.

As this beautiful Momma realized that she was progressing quickly and the party was getting started her midwife entered the room gloved and ready. Baby Girl was ready to meet her momma in a matter of minutes. A  room full of love Baby girl needed a little help from Momma pushing to make her entrance.  After pushing a short period of time the Momma who's body knew exactly what to do and when Baby girl decided make a very grand entrance. I was so overwhelmed with Joy. I enjoy being in the space of such a beautiful moment. I am so blessed and honored to be allowed to share such beautiful and intimate moments with the families that find me as a perfect fit for their goals. I was truly blessed  by this Momma and her family.

Thank you for Blessing me Beautiful Momma
Peaceful Birthing Doula
Educate, Encourage, Empower and Serving Women
peacefulbirthingdoula@gmail.com
(630)481-6079

Sunday, March 6, 2016

Fabulous almost 40 and fertile



Fabulous 40 and Fertile


I remember when trying to conceive at 38 years old my O.B. who I must say is the best.
Dr. Beister told me as long as I stay healthy without complications along the way she would support me with my journey for as long as I wanted to try.

I'm pleased to say we conceived when I was 39 years old. My O.B. still support our journey of conception if we would like to continue the journey. I am now 41 years old with a beautiful daughter and would love to continue my journey and I still have the support of my O.B.

 My advice will always stay the same find a physician who will be honest, genuine and supportive. You can shop around for the best fit for you.  Now, I must say be realistic in your request; conception is serious keep your health, your spouse & family in mind.

 I have been there and know what a family can go through. I had an ectopic and my fallopian tube ruptured. Do all the necessary exams to ensure the health of your reproductive organs.

Every O.B. you interview must be on the same page with you for care and labour and delivery. Discuss your idea of labour and delivery. Do the research stand your ground.  Also, Know the truth about your request, know the risks and know the hospital procedure for your request.

Everything you think is fantasy or unreal may in fact be a reality for you during this journey.
One thing I advise to families when I meet with them is to sit down and think about the most fanciful labour and delivery they can come up with and then we will discuss how we can make that fantasy a reality using realistic methods. I worked with a family this past January that blessed me so much with being a part of their best and most intimate moment. The Mother at the time of delivery was 49 years old. Yes, you read it right. I said “49 years old”. They had a beautiful baby girl.

Know this your journey doesn’t have to be over. Yes, you may have to have help. Look into your options. There are so many ways you can be helped if natural conceptions isn’t realistic for you. Speak to a fertility Dr. check into IUI and IVF. Believe it or not your medical insurance may cover some or all of the process. We were so blessed you have BCBS and they covered almost the entire IVF process.  

If you haven’t read my Blog, it takes a village I suggest you do. It will give a little direction on who you should look into as your team to prepare you for this journey.

A Doula is a great way to start with building your team.
Tunisia Macklin
Peaceful Birthing Doula
Educate, Encourage, Empower and Serving Women
http://www.peacefulbirthingdoula.com
peacefulbirthingdoula@gmail.com
(630)481-6079
Visit my website www.peacefulbirthingdoula.com