Groans of the laboring Woman

The Groans of the Laboring Woman

 

This couple was very focused and determined to have their Birth as natural as possible.  I thought they were so cute together. They reminded me of a couple you would see on TV. Dad was attentive to  Mom and her needs as well as being very concerned about how does this all work, preparing for Birth that is. We discuss what they may experience and some of things that may help. He was still curious so I showed Dad a video of a Birth. Dad looked, rubbed his face and shook his head in shock. I asked are you going to be ok? It was clear he was ready because he had to be. As Mom completed her birth team it was clear there was no question she is more than capable.

On this rainy day I received the call that I am having contractions." When should you come out"? I respond when you can not manage and your Husband can not keep you comfortable any more or you just want me there,  it is up to you. She says" okay, I am fine for now and I will call you when its time to come out". I didn't expect to hear from her anytime soon. The pattern as of lately has been the Mom's would call me when they are heading to the hospital. I was hoping I will have the pleasure of working with this family at home before heading out the hospital.

I wake up to a call the  next day. She saying "I think it is time for you to come out". I enter the house and was greeted by a sleepy and excited husband ready to meet his baby girl. He sent me to the bedroom where the Momma is laboring quietly.  We greet with a hug and get to work. I ask How do you feel? Where do you feel the contractions ? What has made you comfortable? We knew this day would come for this family.  It came 41.5 weeks later. It was so nice to know how we were starting.   

We start with something that was near and dear to this Momma. We quoted one of her scriptures Romans 8v18, I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. Philippians 4v13, I can do this through him who gives me strength. Every contraction that washed over her caused her to groan. As we work on breathing she continue to groan and it took me to a scripture that was just below her original scripture. Romans 8v22 We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. Romans 8v26 In the same way, the spirit helps us in our weakness. we do not know what we ought to pray for, but the spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. This helped calm her and to refocus. As I remind her labor is work. What are we doing this for? Reminding her this for her to meet her Baby Girl Z.

Mom appeared to be pretty fatigued. She mentioned that she hadn't had much rest since she had been labor some overnight. I advised her and Dad to nap. It was really clear Dad needed a nap as well. She became comfortable and laid down to rest and Dad looks at me and mentioned "I usually need to sleep in the other room when she snoring especially now she is laboring. I will not be able to sleep with her like this. I tell him just for a little while if it gets to bad go to the other room. I just think it will help her get comfortable if you are near. This Dad gave it a great effort. As I was in the next room I could her laboring attempting to do it quietly. Soon after I see the door open with Dad, his pillow and blanket heading to the next room. Ha!! I say go ahead you need your rest. Eventually, she wakes up after about an hour and we start moving around. Our little storm chaser was giving Mommy some back pain. We do hand and knees a few time and get her comfortable for as long as possible till Mom finally says I am ready to go to hospital. Looking at her face it look like she was up to something. Lol! I ask is it because you feel like its time or your just trying to go so you can be their for help (Epidural). This Mom looked at me like I just read her mind. No ma'am I been there it comes from experience. We continue to work on comfort. Eventually it is clear that we were going in soon. It was becoming more difficult to keep her comfortable. Baby was becoming eager to meet her Mom and Dad.  I called the Midwife and woke up Dad to start loading up the car. We will be heading out soon...

We started to go over affirming what she needed to hear. We prayed and claimed the things we wanted. No tearing, water will break on its own, minimal to no pushing and Baby will be healthy.

We get comfortable at the hospital, I get room atmosphere set with music of waterfalls, birds and beautiful music with some essential oils to calm her body. This Momma was relaxed until transition time. We head to the shower and focus on her low back. I could see the peace on her face knowing it was helping her back calm down. Baby Girl Z was making her way down to meet her family.  A little toilet time, hands and knees, squatting and side lying help make the journey for Baby Girl Z more of a reality. The Midwife comes in and we discuss how things are going and we realize things has progressed and we are about to meet baby Girl Z sooner than we thought. As the room transitions and Mom mentally prepare for the next task of helping her baby come out. Though there was much excitement there was still such a calm and peace in the space.

Mom uses the squat bar to push a little while I hold pictures of blooming flowers and playing relaxing music to keep her in a good mental space. Mom  then switches to hands and knees and assisting her baby girl come out we notice baby is crowning after just one push. I have Mom touch baby head and Dad was instructed to come around and catch his baby. The shock and surprise on his face was priceless. To see this first time dad gingerly hold his baby girl and hand her to her Mom like the most delicate and rare flower made tears form in my eyes. It was the most beautiful moment.

As Mom and Dad were coming down off the high I mention to Mom how her affirmation and prayer list manifested. Do you realize your water broke on its own, You did not tear and you only pushed 4 or 5 times and Baby made it in your arms safely and healthy? 

This was a perfect example of putting it in the atmosphere and not allowing someone else story to become yours. Who ever your source is ours is God... Know that your source is your strength and he will not leave your nor forsake you. This Mom was an example of the Sources being her strength.


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

www.peacefulbirthingdoula.com

www.facebook.com/peacefulbirthingdoula

www.twitter.com/peacefulbdoula

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Secrets to having a intervention free pregnancy

The Secret to having a intervention free birth

More women are looking into natural birth these days. I love it. I have noticed no matter your back ground, your culture the women are more interest in the benefits it offer not just them but baby.

every woman has a reason for their journey into the natural. Some are drawn because they were raised in a family full of natural living people, lifestyle changes and because it seems like the trend amongst the crunchy parents. it truly doesn't matter which is your reasoning. what's most important is that you know what your goal is and you have a support system to make it attainable. The funny thing is everybody idea of what natural is appears to be different. To be honest what you consider natural is your opinion. Know your limits in the labour and birthing process. If you set a goal higher than you truly believe you can achieve you can come out on the other end of the birth feeling disappointed. we tend to be harsher on ourselves than we should be.

Birth is a very beautiful experience and preparing for it is such an intimate process. think about it. during the entire process you are developing a beautiful relationship with your baby while in the womb. We learn our babies personality and corks during the preparation time. baby let you know when you fatigued, over doing it, need to eat and need to prepare for their arrival. I loved the process.

you have to have a positive out look no matter your symptoms, experience with those around you and what your physical body look like. When you think pregnancy in the start your excited and eager to get started with the journey. You know you may gain a lot of weight but you don't know how your body with respond to the over all process. This is why I have a few tips to assist in the intervention free experience.

How you are before the pregnancy start can tell you many things:

here are some questions to consider.

1. will I feel out of control?

2. will I be able to submit to the experience?

3. will I be able to let my body work naturally?

4. Can I rely on my body?

5. am I comfortable in my own skin?

6. can  receive help without rejecting or trying to take over

I have a talk I do titled the 7 secrets to having an intervention free birth. The tips aren't difficult they are just things that most have a issue handling or identifying.

1.       Mentality (meditation/visualization/

 Pregnancy is hormonal and so staying positive is important. I always advise families to sort through your stuff before labour and delivery because emotion can translate through your pregnancy and labour. If you have unresolved stresses, angers, family issues this all can affect the way your pregnancy will play out as well as your labour.

To clear your mind and prepare for this journey of a life time I advise you to work on meditation, visualization and daily affirmations. I just started to provide affirmations for Mom and Dad for pregnancy, Labour and delivery. Your mental state is so important. If you are not mentally sound this can also affect your postpartum recovery. I also am a firm believer if your mental state is the healthiest than how can you positively receive support.  

2.       Support
Every woman who is looking to conceive or expecting their partner need to understand the importance of their support.
 The comfort you experience knowing that your spouse, parents and friends are supportive and willing to be a part of your experience in what ever way is needed is very comforting.

All of this is very helpful to Mom and will give a breath of fresh air before delivery. This will allow Mom t enjoy pregnancy with out the huge list of tasks. I always suggest creating a pregnancy and postpartum task list for family and friends. be specific with time slots so there is no confusion or disturbances while your home resting with the baby.The funny thing is in North America we are so behind culturally with pregnancy and the birthing experience how can we expect our culture to be understanding of the postpartum experience. In some cultures the Mom is not allowed to do anything. the family will come in and care for the house and family until her healing and bonding process is complete. In Asia, India and Africa the village come together to make sure you are prepared to care for your new addition and family without any relapse. We are still behind in breastfeeding and maternity leave. we are even behind with paternity leave. that's right men are allowed time off of work to help the Mom. If your partner can stay home for at least 2 weeks you decrease your chances of postpartum depression significantly.

3.       Relaxation (yoga/ massage/
spend time relaxing. Anything that is mentally soothing and physically calming. If you do not have any allergies aromatherapy is great. A little lavender goes a long way when you put a couple drops in a defusor or hot tub of water. It is ok to use during pregnancy, labor and delivery. Get prenatal massage and frequent a prenatal yoga class as often as your schedule will allow.   

4.       Mobility (walk/ exercise)  A walk around the blog is great. There are pregnancy and Mommy groups that you can join so you can have someone to walk with the same journey a head as you.

5.       Chiropractic (joint and structural health

6.       Nutrition ( eat for preventative health, healing in food ( helps with hormonal balance, anxiety, hydration etc..

7.       Doula 

 When you hire a doula we are there to decrease your chances of C-section, Pitocin, epidural and we increase your chances of a natural labour an delivery. We assist you in staying the course with your birth plan within reason. We help you with any information you need to make decisions about your birthing experience. We also help you to trust your body and find a healthy place mentally during the pregnancy, labour and delivery. We help with any resources you may need during your journey. We also assist with your transition from hospital to home during those postpartum stages. Having a Doula allows you to not free to experience without stress the beautiful journey of birthing.

I love watching the families transform and grow. Each woman that has delivered I have witnessed them turn into what I call a womb warrior.  Birth turns you into the most resilient woman you will ever become without having to experience a trauma.

For questions about hire Peace Birthing Doula for Birth Doula or Postpartum Support, Placenta Encapsulation and Massage please visit www.peacefulbirthingdoula.com  or (630)481-6079


Tunisia Macklin DONA(CD), Placenta Encapsulator, Massage Therapist

Meet The Doula

                          

Hello!!  I would like to introduce myself.  I am Tunisia Macklin a Wife, Mother of 2 precious Angel Babies and my sweet precious little 3 year old Princess Elianna. I am also a Massage Therapist, Doula and Placenta Encapsulator. To learn more about my services you can go to www.peacefulbirthingdoula.com

 As a young lady I experienced birth work very early. I guess you can say I was born into it. I actually found out that my Great Great Grand Mother was a Midwife. Wow! My first birthing experience was with my Mom. I remember her starting to have contractions with my little sister. It was the most exciting moment ever. That pregnancy was so much fun as all my mother’s pregnancies were as well. My mother was so strong walking through the house, walking the stairs and doing yoga poses. Her favorite was all fours which ironically was great for me during my laboring with Elianna. As time neared my mother to prepare to leave for the hospital I remember her saying “run me a tub of water please”. I sat on the floor and chatted with her while she dosed off a few times and laughed as my sister applied extreme pressure on her low back. What was amazing was I remember when my mom water broke and she called for my dad to get the car ready. “William it’s time for real.” My Dad was cool then and displayed that same cool demeanor when my Mom told him I was heading out to have my daughter Elianna. Some things just don’t change. You have to love my cool Dad. The only thing that I didn’t find fun was having to clean that tub out afterward. That I thought was pretty cruel.

My first experience from there on became a norm from my Mom to being present at a few close friends’ births and my Nephew. Some of my dearest moments were being present for my 3 God children’s birth they were awesome. The funny part is I only worked in an official Doula capacity for my most recent God daughter Grace. By then I knew what a Doula was and had completed my training through DONA International. The funny thing is with all the experience I have from life and training who would have thought the Doula couldn't Doula herself.

I was trained in December of 2012 and 2 weeks later I found out I was pregnant with our baby girl Elianna. It was fun working with families while pregnant. I remember I was 2 weeks from my estimated due date September 5^th 2013 working with a fun family and Dr. Sklar of RPW in Elmhurst, Il. I recall him and the Mom who was delivering asking me “are you ok”? I found out recently Dr. sklar still remembers that day.

So much has changed since then. I love this wonderful world of birth work. I look forward to helping each family understand and improve their birth choices. I also plan on working toward educating families on preparing for birth, the choices they have and how your voice matters. You can read some of my testimonies on www.doulamatch.net/profile/6185/tunisia-macklin  and on my website www.peacefulbirthingdoula.com

Look out for the next post on building your birth team to birth your way.

Have a GREAT Day Beautiful Mommies & Mommies-to-be!

You can also follow me on Facebook www.facebook.com/peacefulbirthingdoula and twitter www.twitter.com/peacefulbdoula for tips, information and video's on birthing, breastfeeding and fun.

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

www.peacefulbirthingdoula.com

www.facebook.com/peacefulbirthingdoula

www.twitter.com/peacefulbdoula

www.instagram.com/peacefulbdoula

VBAC MY WAY

 

 

 

 

VBAC My way

 

 

 

When we met it was clear she said" I think my birth was stolen from me and I would like to allow my body to do what is natural." Boy this Momma put me to the test." We had plenty of time. This Momma is sure what she would like to experience. She called me at 9 weeks pregnant. "I need a provider, where can I deliver and who can help me make this a reality? " I quickly took a deep breath and realized this Momma trust me with more than just her comfort she trust me to shape her village. Wow!! I was more than honored. I went over her birth plan with her and listened to the Husbands thoughts about the Birth. They were so disappointed. After hearing the way they experienced birth in North Carolina I was disappointed because I was born in North Carolina. How in the world could my home state be so oblivious to the beauty and natural strengths of a women during child birth.

 

Did they miss the memo 6 is the new 4cm? Did they know that birth is not a procedure its an experience? This is why women are now birthing at home. I collected a list of O.B GYN's and Midwives and off Momma went to meet her future OB. After a few weeks we soon had our O.B. and will be delivering in Alexian Brothers in Elk Grove Village. This Momma was a true warrior Princess ready to face the Birthing room and meet her son. The Dad was so cool about every thing we faced in preparation. Mr. J main concern was his wife and child. "I just want her to be safe". I do not want to have the same experience as North Carolina."

 

I can recall receiving the call to come to the hospital. We were disappointed but we were prepared for what could come. I remember the Dr. coming in and saying "hello doula". She knew the moment she saw me Dad has questions. I have experienced birth with this O.B. before so she is use to my questions. Lol!! "I assume you want time to do natural methods first?" Ok Doula I will give you til 10pm so you have plenty of time. Everyone was stuck on her failure to progress labeled in first birth. No one asked did mom move around? How long did mom lay down? How long did staff allow Mom to labor?    

 

 

Mom was relieved that Dr. already had a rapport with me and was ok with my style of work. Immediately we got to work and as several hour passed staff updated Dr. about how things were going. No pressure. Lol! as time went on Dr. thought it was ok to say Doula it looks like I will have to call this one. I looked at her and asked for a few more minutes. After dancing with her Mom and Husband, walking, squatting Momma body kicked into action and after Mom's hard work and determination we were all experiencing this Momma have a full on Vaginal Birth.

 It was wonderful observing her with her parents and Husband supporting her. It was the cutest thing watching this beautiful Mom dance with her parents and husband to make sure labor would stay consistent. This Mom was fun. I had a previous conversation with her about dancing being one of the methods used to get thing going steadily and she was all on board. She had me laughing with the comment "put a little Chris Brown on and you will have no problem getting a party started with me". I thought we were going to shoe Alexian Brothers how the Peaceful Birthing Doula can get down with her Mommies. Lol!

After fun moments of dancing and walking I can see clear as day the face of a determined Mom to meet her child on her terms. With every breath and every push this Mom let me know "I can do this". I loved being a part of this womb warriors experience. Being a part of this moment with a family that stood together in triumph.

Watching the face of a mother who realized I did it was so rewarding. I knew she could experience a beautiful birth. Momma gave me a bit of a scare though. She focused so much energy on the birth when it was all done she was so tired we had to tell her to open her eyes. Job well done. I wasn't shocked this momma has such a fire in her it couldn't be any other way.  After the delivery I experienced for the 3rd time this Dr had to give me a high five. We both had to hug Mom and let her know she did a beautiful job... This Mom was determine to have her VBAC. Once she set her mind to the goal at hand and understood her birth plan would be followed within reason unless something medically changes she had no limitations. I really enjoyed this birth as I enjoy all. This Womb warrior was truly and is absolutely a VBAC Princess resilience is definitely a word I will use to describe this Momma.

I feel so much gratitude toward each Family that allow me to be a part of such a beautiful and life long experience. This family is truly a great and blessed family I look forward to the next time I see them again.

for information in services offered please visit www.peacefulbirthingdoula.com or email peacefulbirthingdoula@gmail.com    

 

 



 







VBAC MY WAY

VBAC My way

When we met it was clear she said" I think my birth was stolen from me and I would like to allow my body to do what is natural." Boy this Momma put me to the test." We had plenty of time. This Momma is sure what she would like to experience. She called me at 9 weeks pregnant. "I need a provider, where can I deliver and who can help me make this a reality? " I quickly took a deep breath and realized this Momma trust me with more than just her comfort she trust me to shape her village. Wow!! I was more than honored. I went over her birth plan with her and listened to the Husbands thoughts about the Birth. They were so disappointed. After hearing the way they experienced birth in North Carolina I was disappointed because I was born in North Carolina. How in the world could my home state be so oblivious to the beauty and natural strengths of a women during child birth.

Did they miss the memo 6 is the new 4cm? Did they know that birth is not a procedure its an experience? This is why women are now birthing at home. I collected a list of O.B GYN's and Midwives and off Momma went to meet her future OB. After a few weeks we soon had our O.B. and will be delivering in Alexian Brothers in Elk Grove Village. This Momma was a true warrior Princess ready to face the Birthing room and meet her son. The Dad was so cool about every thing we faced in preparation. Mr. J main concern was his wife and child. "I just want her to be safe". I do not want to have the same experience as North Carolina."

I can recall receiving the call to come to the hospital. We were disappointed but we were prepared for what could come. I remember the Dr. coming in and saying "hello doula". She knew the moment she saw me Dad has questions. I have experienced birth with this O.B. before so she is use to my questions. Lol!! "I assume you want time to do natural methods first?" Ok Doula I will give you til 10pm so you have plenty of time. Everyone was stuck on her failure to progress labeled in first birth. No one asked did mom move around? How long did mom lay down? How long did staff allow Mom to labor?    

Mom was relieved that Dr. already had a rapport with me and was ok with my style of work. Immediately we got to work and as several hour passed staff updated Dr. about how things were going. No pressure. Lol! as time went on Dr. thought it was ok to say Doula it looks like I will have to call this one. I looked at her and asked for a few more minutes. After dancing with her Mom and Husband, walking, squatting Momma body kicked into action and after Mom's hard work and determination we were all experiencing this Momma have a full on Vaginal Birth.

 It was wonderful observing her with her parents and Husband supporting her. It was the cutest thing watching this beautiful Mom dance with her parents and husband to make sure labor would stay consistent. This Mom was fun. I had a previous conversation with her about dancing being one of the methods used to get thing going steadily and she was all on board. She had me laughing with the comment "put a little Chris Brown on and you will have no problem getting a party started with me". I thought we were going to shoe Alexian Brothers how the Peaceful Birthing Doula can get down with her Mommies. Lol!

After fun moments of dancing and walking I can see clear as day the face of a determined Mom to meet her child on her terms. With every breath and every push this Mom let me know "I can do this". I loved being a part of this womb warriors experience. Being a part of this moment with a family that stood together in triumph.

Watching the face of a mother who realized I did it was so rewarding. I knew she could experience a beautiful birth. Momma gave me a bit of a scare though. She focused so much energy on the birth when it was all done she was so tired we had to tell her to open her eyes. Job well done. I wasn't shocked this momma has such a fire in her it couldn't be any other way.  After the delivery I experienced for the 3rd time this Dr had to give me a high five. We both had to hug Mom and let her know she did a beautiful job... This Mom was determine to have her VBAC. Once she set her mind to the goal at hand and understood her birth plan would be followed within reason unless something medically changes she had no limitations. I really enjoyed this birth as I enjoy all. This Womb warrior was truly and is absolutely a VBAC Princess resilience is definitely a word I will use to describe this Momma.

I feel so much gratitude toward each Family that allow me to be a part of such a beautiful and life long experience. This family is truly a great and blessed family I look forward to the next time I see them again.

for information in services offered please visit www.peacefulbirthingdoula.com or email peacefulbirthingdoula@gmail.com   

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

www.peacefulbirthingdoula.com

www.facebook.com/peacefulbirthingdoula

www.twitter.com/peacefulbdoula

www.instagram.com/peacefulbdoula 









BEAUTIFUL VBAC WARRIOR

 

VBAC WARRIOR

The moment I spoke with Mrs. B I knew This Momma was not having any mess. I remember her voice clear as if she called me today. I want a natural birth. My first birth was nothing like I thought it should be. I want to have a choice this birth. I was in Love with this process. This momma was determined, sure and well researched on her options and hospital procedure. Mrs. B knew that she was having a Midwife at a hospital that would allow her to labour and manage with little disruptions. I wondered, “well who is your Midwife?” I will get right on doing the research about who she is and the hospital numbers. I must have forgotten who I was speaking with for a brief moment because all that had already been done.

“I will have Chanelle as my Midwife she delivers out of Highland Park Hospital”. “Ok!” Is all I can say. This Momma was quiet the short time I had to work with her. It was funny she decided to call me at 36 weeks.

It seemed like time went by so fast. I remember I get a call from Mrs. B, I been having contractions. I head over and her son lingers around with the look of concern. The husband is waiting for the word when to head out. Little did I know quiet and conservative Dad would be in a fast zippy car driving like NASCAR with a Sister driving equally as fast with plenty quick maneuvers for the slow in tow. The ride to the hospital was interesting to say the least. Ha!

We arrived at the hospital after a few hours of labouring at home. Dad was great slow dancing with Mom and rubbing her back. Finally, I remember the face of seriousness. I need to go now. Which is what made us head to the hospital with such haste. As we entered the room I pull out the birth plan and Dad and I go over really quick the details before the staff start to come in and get started. Mom was adamant about a few things. 1. No IV, 2. No mention of epidural 3. No interruptions and 4. No in and out. 5. Squat delivery. Chanelle and I start to get Mom prepared because things were progressing well.

I will never forget this birth. Hip rocks, hip squeezes, slow dances and back massages while moving freely to the beat of her music in a dimly lite room with the most beautiful wilderness music. I remember telling her “Birth is the most primitive thing you will ever encounter. No matter what you want to do relax, take a deep breath and allow your body’s natural rhythm to take over. Your body will naturally birth this baby if you allow it. Oh Boy! My beautiful VBAC Warrior heard me and with little effort squatted in the middle of her delivery room floor between her husband’s legs using him for support as Chanelle kneeling watches her Mrs. B baby Boy slide out. With tears in Mom and Dad’s eyes and the most beautiful warriors cry to do the final push to meet their baby Boy and my heart dropped. She did it. I was so excited that she far surpassed the birth she expected. This was an absolutely beautiful effort from everyone but more important this Mom knew her body could do it and her body responded with matched determination.

My VBAC Warrior made my eyes open more about how beautiful birth can be not just because of the delivery, but the endurance, drive and determination that was women have in us to allow our body to do the most natural thing it can do. BIRTH….

I hope you too will realize that your body can do it no matter what doubt you have because of what you read or heard. There is a difference in being cautious and afraid. Fear is a hindrance unless you have a medical reason to not have a VBAC.

I SUGGEST YOU DO YOUR RESEARCH ON BIRTH BE HONEST ABOUT YOURSELF AND YOUR ABILITY.

If you are looking to have a VBAC or just have the Best Bold Birth you can possibly have for you and your family go to www.peacefulbirthingdoula.com

#peacefulbirth #peacefulbirthingdoula #VBACWARRIORS

         

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

www.peacefulbirthingdoula.com

www.facebook.com/peacefulbirthingdoula

www.twitter.com/peacefulbdoula

www.instagram.com/peacefulbdoula

Visit my website www.peacefulbirthingdoula.com

Meet The Doula Event 2016

 

 

 

Greetings Beautiful Mommies and Mommies to be!!

I am overjoyed to announce I am hosting my very 1st Doula event.

 Meet The Doula will be an event filled with raffles, fun games, information and great birth chat. It is time to bust some old wives tales and have fun relax and talk birth. There will be snacks offered as well.

 If you know anyone expecting who maybe interested in a Doula or would like to know more about what a Doula can offer please bring them. If you would like to tell your provider all about it they are welcome as well.

 

 Event: Meet The Doula

When: January 30th, 2016

Time: 1pm-3pm

Location: Vitality Women’s Physical Therapy and Wellness, LLC

263 N. York Rd suite 200

Elmhurst, Illinois 60126

www.VitalityWomenPT.com

 

Raffles prizes courtesy of :

Celar Chiropractic -2 Acupuncture sessions  

4413 W. Roosevelt Rd suite 100

Hillside, Ill 60162

 

Cleaning Time , INC - Basic Cleaning session

420 W. Stone Rd, ste G2

Villa Park, Il 60181

Marta Predko

(630)634-8095

cleaningtimeservices@gmail.com

www.cleaningtimeservices.com

 

Peaceful Birthing Doula - 1hr in home massage session  

Addison, Il

 (630)481-6079

www.peacefulbirthingdoula.com

 

This is just to name a few…

 

P.S. If you refer someone for Doula, Placenta or Massage

services you can earn a complimentary 1hr in home massage session for you to keep or gift to someone

You can visit www.peacefulbirthingdoula.com for information on services and rates

 

Birthing from with in

Birthing from within

Every woman has her level of strength and pain tolerance. One thing I have noticed is no matter how strong or how intolerant you are to pain every woman will finish the race. Many say “labor and deliver is much like a marathon”. I can say” for some it may be a great comparison”. One thing is for sure No one has ever said I just couldn’t do it, I’ll try next time or I just didn’t know what to do. Can you imagine carrying your baby for 10 more months to try and do it again?

Delivering a baby may need some instruction or even a little bit of detail. No matter what you think baby will come out with or without your help. For some delivery is effortless. For example, I had a wonderful Mom who I worked with for her and her Husband first delivery. They called me for their second delivery and I was more than honored to be a part of this joyous occasion. This Mom has a background of athleticism and working out throughout her pregnancies. We created a game plan for the second delivery. Baby was determined to meet her parents as they were determined to meet her. I must say I didn’t know what to expect for this delivery however I will say this was the fastest delivery of all time and without much work. This Mom only pushed once and the princess came right out.

What most don’t realize is if you can find that mental peace during labor, allow your body to work for you and get in a great position your body will do what it was designed to do. If this isn’t your story that’s fine, because one thing you all do share is the end of the delivery you will never be the same.

Delivery will change you. It doesn’t matter if you labored for 1 hour or 60 hours. It doesn’t matter if you had a vaginal delivery or cesarean the results are the same. You will be changed for life. You are now a new woman. You my dear have put the WO in WO-MAN. You will be the most confident, resilient, strong and accomplished than you have ever been. Men cannot fathom carrying, delivery or caring for a child as we do. Who better to do it than you?

We have to remember we are strong and courageous. Do Not allow the thought of labor and delivery to overwhelm you. You can do it. Remember that you have support. Lean on the people around you. Focus on your inner strength. Think of what you are working for. Labor is what it Is, work. There is no way around it. Know that you were created to carry, labor, deliver and Love your Baby.

You can do this. Birthing is something that comes from within you. Get it?  Birthing comes from within?

Okay beautiful Mommies remember love yourself, love your baby, love your belly.

Enjoy these moment and journal to remind yourself of the precious kits, punches and movements.

To hire labor or postpartum support call www.peacefulbirthingdoula.com

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

www.peacefulbirthingdoula.com

www.facebook.com/peacefulbirthingdoula

www.twitter.com/peacefulbdoula

www.instagram.com/peacefulbdoula

The Dirty Little secret

The dirty little secret





Your typically excited at the idea that your married and ready to conceive. How hard can it be right? Your intimate with your spouse and BAM! Your pregnant. For most that is exactly how it may happen. There is also a percentage of women that unfortunately like me it doesn't happen that easily.

I remember how excited I was for preparing to have my husband and I first child. We started and nothing. We eventually started ovulation kits, period tracker apps, then I called my OB GYN
Dr. Beister  from Partners of Woman health who checked to see if there was any blockages in the tubes or was there anything to be concerned about. There was nothing. I had a clean bill of health. We went back to it. I became ridiculous. I would call my husband and say " I'm ovulating can you come home for lunch"? eventually it became a chore to him. I though I would never hear the day when my husband would say he can't perform under these circumstances. I was putting to much stress on him.

The funny thing is I was on the phone with my sister and she said "Hey! did you get your menstrual"? of course, I didn't realize I had been unbearable to deal with. She mentioned I had been moody and mean. I checked my period tracker since I decided to be more relaxed about monitoring and it said your 45 days late. I started to scream, jump and became so excited I started to drop my phone. On Thursday evening I took a pregnancy test and it was official I AM PREGNANT. I took a picture of the positive test and texted it to my husband and called him all at the same time. He could hardly understand me. Finally we did it. We are pregnant. Yay!!

I wake up Friday still riding off the high of it all. My husband kiss the belly. We start to plan our future, figuring how and when will we tell everyone?  On Saturday I wake up and the Hubby handles his weekend errands as usual. I'm on the phone with my sister and realize my stomach is hurting I go to the bathroom and there is blood. No!? What is this? In her calmest voice she tells me to go to the hospital now. I head over and call the hubby.

The worst day of my life has begun. My heart is racing, I feel a emptiness and fear. I find out I have an ectopic. My baby is in my fallopian tube. I am devastated, I have to choose to do a shot of methotrexate or remove the tube. In my mind I'm killing my baby. What if it can detach? Who says it can't happen? I believe in miracles.  I decide to reluctantly do the methotrexate and thinking everything is okay. I continue my days mourning what could have been. I found myself being thankful we found out we can have a baby now its just a matter of healing and moving forward. While working I notice my insides are hurting and I feel like something just isn't right. I get home and off we go to the hospital. After a 6 day hospital stay my fallopian tube has ruptured and I am now bleeding internally. I have to have emergency surgery to remove the tube I wanted to salvage. The scariest thing in the world is to have your family all in a lobby praying for you as you go into a surgery. Your very first surgery ever. I could see the concern and worry on my husband face.  

Now our journey to conceive has become altered. Why can't I just simply have a baby. The one thing women are design to do without question. I find myself with my husband in Fertility clinics of Illinois in Oakbrook with Dr. Ulher discussing our options. We left there with so much hope, peace and joy. it was God who led us to her. After 2 cycles we have our little precious Elianna. We are now parents.

I wish that women would speak more of the struggle, the disappointment and expectation when trying to conceive. You hear about miscarriage, still birth and premature delivers that result in loss of infant. You rarely hear about fertility issues and you rarely ever hear about ectopic pregnancies. I was very angry when I had my experience. After the experience  I had friends tell me "sure I know what that is I had two. I don't have either of my fallopian tubes" or I heard stories of women having at least one ectopic or having a family member that experienced it. The one thing that bothers me the most is that in the African American community women don't share their personal experience. They never share  to know their story. They do not want to give the impression they are less of a women. The pride in the community can be crippling.

African American women we must share our experiences in life to educate the next generations. The elders have a job and it appears we are not hearing the necessary stories. Now being a Doula I am very open and candid about pregnancy to help women understand no matter the situations it is a beautiful experience.   I like to have my families that I work with enjoy the pregnancy experience but also discuss the tuff stuff. Most mothers aren't sharing with their spouse about their fears, concerns and worries. The spouses aren't being honest either. They are hiding their feelings as well. I love having them deal with this and what I really love is it brings them closer once they understand how the other feels. To have your spouse be a support to you in every way during the pregnancy is important.

Women I hold you responsible. Be honest with yourself as well as those around you. Share your story with friends and family. More importantly share with your daughters when they are older. Let's prepare others and let them know they aren't alone. I remember that was one emotion I felt during my healing process. My husband was awesome. I just needed someone who had that experience to support me.

Find support groups for women who have had your experience. You can counsel through your church. If you don't have a church home you can find a neighborhood church that shares your same beliefs and meet with a Pastor there or you can make an appointment with counselors near you.

If you have an opportunity to prevent postpartum depression even if you experience a stillbirth please consider keeping your placenta and encapsulating to improve your chances of recovering physically and emotionally from the experience in addition to the counseling and support groups. www.peacefulbirthingdoula.com

 I have a list of groups if your need suggestions. I hope you find them helpful.

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

www.peacefulbirthingdoula.com

www.facebook.com/peacefulbirthingdoula

www.twitter.com/peacefulbdoula

www.instagram.com/peacefulbdoula

www.meierclinics.com

www.stillbirthay.com 

www.dupagecris.org

www.edwards.org/wings

www.facebook.com/ectopicpregnancysupport

 www.ICAN.com
www.compassionatefriends.org

If your currently pregnant and looking for support I have availability www.peacefulbirthingdoula.com