Shortened series in The Bradley Method 8 two hr sessions

In- home or virtual consultation to finalize and review tips regarding your upcoming birth and overall general preparedness.

Learn the basics: How the body works during pregnancy, labor, birth & beyond and how you can prepare yourself to work with your body in each phase. Focus is on basic positioning & techniques for first, second, third stages of labor, how the coach can help, etc.

Have you ever considered a surrogacy journey? For many people facing challenges with traditional conception or pregnancy, surrogacy offers a path to parenthood that might otherwise seem out of reach. This process involves a woman carrying a pregnancy for someone else, often when medical or personal reasons prevent the intended parents from carrying a child themselves. But surrogacy is a complex and deeply personal decision. Understanding what it involves, the emotional and legal aspects, and the potential challenges can help you decide if this journey fits your family’s needs. A pregnant surrogate mother holding a sonogram image, symbolizing hope and new beginnings What Is Surrogacy and How Does It Work? Surrogacy is an arrangement where a woman, called the surrogate, agrees to carry and give birth to a child for another person or couple, known as the intended parents. There are two main types: Traditional Surrogacy : The surrogate uses her own egg, making her the biological mother of the child. Fertilization usually happens through artificial insemination. Gestational Surrogacy : The surrogate carries an embryo created through in vitro fertilization (IVF) using the eggs and sperm of the intended parents or donors. The surrogate has no genetic link to the child. Gestational surrogacy is more common today because it separates the genetic and birth mother roles, which can simplify legal and emotional issues. Steps in the Surrogacy Process Initial Consultation Intended parents meet with fertility specialists and surrogacy agencies to discuss options and expectations. Matching with a Surrogate Agencies or independent searches help find a surrogate who meets medical and psychological criteria. Legal Agreements Contracts outline the rights and responsibilities of all parties, including parental rights, medical care, and financial arrangements. Medical Procedures IVF or insemination is performed, followed by pregnancy monitoring. Birth and Parental Rights Transfer After birth, legal steps ensure the intended parents are recognized as the child’s legal parents. Who Should Consider Surrogacy? Surrogacy can be an option for various people, including: Individuals or couples with medical conditions preventing pregnancy Same-sex couples wanting to have a biological child Women with uterine issues or repeated pregnancy loss Single individuals desiring to become parents Each situation is unique, so surrogacy may not be the right choice for everyone. It requires emotional readiness, financial resources, and a willingness to navigate complex legal and medical systems. Emotional and Psychological Aspects The surrogacy journey involves many emotions for both intended parents and surrogates. Intended parents may feel excitement mixed with anxiety about the process and outcome. Surrogates often experience a strong bond with the baby they carry, even if they understand the child will belong to someone else. Counseling is highly recommended for all parties to prepare for the emotional challenges. Open communication and clear expectations help build trust and reduce misunderstandings. Legal Considerations in Surrogacy Surrogacy laws vary widely by country and even by state or region. Some places have clear legal frameworks supporting surrogacy agreements, while others restrict or ban the practice. Key legal issues include: Establishing parental rights before or after birth Enforcing surrogacy contracts Handling custody disputes Managing financial compensation and expenses Some may consider hiring a lawyer experienced in reproductive law to protect everyone’s interests and ensure a smooth process. Financial Aspects of Surrogacy Surrogacy can be expensive. Costs may include: Medical treatments such as IVF Surrogate compensation and expenses Legal fees Agency fees if using a surrogacy agency Psychological counseling The total cost can range from tens to hundreds of thousands of dollars depending on location and services. Some insurance plans may cover parts of the process, but many sadly do not. Organizations such as The Surrogacy Foundation Practical Tips for a Successful Surrogacy Journey Research thoroughly : Understand medical, legal, and emotional aspects before starting. Choose the right surrogate : Look for someone healthy, reliable, and emotionally prepared. Get legal advice early : Draft clear contracts to avoid future conflicts. Communicate openly : Maintain honest and respectful communication with your surrogate. Prepare emotionally : Use counseling to manage expectations and feelings. Plan finances carefully : Budget for all potential costs and unexpected expenses. Real-Life Example with Your Birth Helper® Birth Family I had the distinct pleasure to support my birth family mom, Charlotte Ramberg, through her recent Gestational Surrogacy (official press release shared below). As Charlotte and Kevin's childbirth educator and birth doula, I truly enjoyed training and supporting the couple through their own biological drug-free labor and births. Charlotte, a graduate of UGA, later became a licensed counselor and began her own practice, Cherokee Rose Counseling & Consulting, LLC. She holds numerous credentials including LPC, NCC, PMH-C and CPCS. She is dedicated to supporting women and even leads a postpartum support group in Cumming, Georgia. Therefore, I was not surprised when Charlotte shared hers and Kevin's plan to try to help other couples in need. Galentine's Day @ Sweet Thai I recently met Shannon over Thai food on February 14th, 2026. Charlotte had asked to meet for lunch and labor prep work. Shannon shared details of how she came to be in need of a surrogate to grow her family. Sadly, we did not know each other when she carried her own first baby. At that time, she was unaware of how YBH® childbirth education and doula support could have increased her chances of a successful vaginal birth, decreased her chances of failed induction and c-section, and possibly even prevented her entire first outcome. Sometimes, what we don't know does hurt us. Shannon and her husband Patrick, initially did not initially see the necessity in childbirth education. After experiencing her devastating outcome, like most in such situations, she certainly did not want to share a negative birth story, nor all the negative outcomes she had endured after consenting to the suggested care of her medical team. Her routine induction turned into what the medical world often deems as "failure to progress" when an induction is slower than they had hoped. They will gladly offer to end the early induction with an elective cesarean for issues like a slow to dilate cervix, cervical swelling, etc., seems like a valid evidence based option until the worse case scenario plays out. Which sadly in Shannon's case led to a post surgical complication in recovery that turned into an emergent second surgery to stop internal bleeding. The surgeon insisted they had to remove her "shredded uterus" to save her life. The medical reason given to her, "These things sometimes just happen." It is called practicing medicine after all, but interestingly, Shannon's medical records also showed multiple drugs that both slowed and prolonged her labor, all while using other pharmaceuticals to attempt in speeding the labor back up. For example, the use of Cytotec is known to increase uterine rupture. Readers should know and be made aware, despite its common use, the FDA has NEVER approved Cytotec for induction of labor, or abortion, noting risks of uterine tearing, severe bleeding, and death. Although rare, rupture can even occur in an unscarred uterus, especially with high-dose. In summary, what should have been her first born's "birth" celebration was stolen from her through what we often refer to in childbirth class as "the domino effect." One routine intervention can often snowball into even more interventions. Every medical intervention carries both increased risks, as well as, benefits. And, for some in worse case scenarios like Shannon's, could end both traumatic and terribly sad. Shannon's "elective induction and ultimately elective surgery," recommended by her providers ended up costing her in immeasurable ways. Not only would she never be able to grow her family organically again, she also received a hefty bill. It is disheartening to acknowledge we often give medical providers consent to create these sort of unfavorable outcomes especially when induction was not medically necessary to start with, simply because we were not willing to wait for spontaneous labor. We think, inductions happen every day, whats the big deal? Until, however unlikely, yet sadly the routine induction turns traumatic or deadly. Shannon definitely could have greatly benefited from our YBH® childbirth training. It is imperative women and couples understand "Informed Consent" and how to discern medical options. Each must decide for themselves what they feel is the right decision and own their decision making. We get one chance to get a baby into the world. There are no re-do's. Shannon would highly recommend you invest in quality birth training and doula support. Prepping Charlotte's body for labor by climbing steep hills, stadium stairs and hip capsule stretching. In fact, Shannon and Patrick were in awe seeing how very different their previous induction experience was compared to the spontaneous labor and natural progression of Charlotte's labor with their surrogate baby. They also came to value and understand the role of a good doula starts long before the labor ever does. In preparing Shannon for labor, I asked her if she or Patrick were interested in helping catch their own baby? This is a conversation I typically have with all my doula clients. She excitedly answered, "YES!" Little did any of us know what was in store for us. The day of baby Lenni's arrival, she "the baby" decided she was not going to wait on the arrival of the hospital midwife and had plans to surprise us all. After the initial admission paperwork and monitoring was completed, I had Charlotte stand to help ease discomfort with a technique we call hip squeeze. After that contraction ended, Charlotte took maybe two steps, and another contraction quickly began. All the medical staff had left the room. While supporting Charlotte's hips again, I heard a sound very familiar to me and I called out to Shannon, and Kevin (Charlotte's husband) to get gloves on (just in case this baby was trying to sneak out). I had Shannon come quickly and be standing close by just in case. Charlotte was not pushing, but the contractions were back to back. Patrick (Shannon's husband) ran out to get their nurse. It was my pleasure to help support Charlotte and guide Shannon with calm clear instruction, along with nurse Keri who acted quickly upon returning to the room checking to see if there was a nuchal cord once the head popped out. Dad had just enough time to run out to the nurse's station, and run back into the room grabbing his cell phone to quickly capture the birth of their baby that was born directly into Shannon's arms and hands! Through the excitement of it all, adrenaline rush and with her entire body trembling, well.... it turns out Mom Shannon was quite a good catch too! (Special thanks to nurse Keri @NSForyth hospital for rushing in to assist in the absence of the midwife). Even with the passing of the baby (between the legs), getting Charlotte safely into the bed, and arranging a place for Shannon to sit in bed holding her baby (cord still attached), I could not have been more proud! Both moms handled all the unpredictability of the speedy entrance of baby Lenni into the world like CHAMPS! They saw teamwork matters. Shannon and Patrick's dream of being surrogate grant winners and their dream of experiencing a happier "BIRTH" day had both come true! Natural childbirth is just that, "way more natural." When women know what they should be doing in response to a contraction that is! The unknowns of childbirth can be scary, but they don't have to be. Having a basis of knowledge before labor is imperative to reduce fear based decision making. Women have too much to lose to go into childbirth blindly and much of which is completely avoidable with preparedness. Women need to know how to stay healthy and low risk during pregnancy to lessen their own risks prior to labor, advocate for their wishes during labor, "is this medically necessary or not?" And, save medical interventions for those who truly need them. Quality education like our four segment YBH® Symbiotic Birth course can bring reassurance to moms that they do have the ability to both lessen pain and lower their own risks. The course can be taught in four segments, virtually or in-person and even in a weekend or 2-3 day retreat at M2b Family Farm in NE Athens, GA as illustrated in the video above. Pregnancy is not an illness, it's a condition. Anything is made easier with knowledge! Childbirth will come regardless of preparation. Will you consider investing in your own birth experience, or like Shannon and Patrick with their first, just be led through one intervention after another blindly? The logic that skipping investing in quality childbirth preparation will serve you in the long run is simply not rational. Medical expenses and out of pocket costs alone will add up extremely fast. Keep as much money in your pockets as possible with preparation and lessen your own risks and negative outcomes while keeping your uterus intact too! Shannon would tell you there is no comparison between her first birth and her second birth experience. Despite the circumstances of not being able to physically give birth again, this birth was full of normality and free from nearly all the medical interventions Shannon endured. For the safety of mom and baby, Charotte waited for spontaneous labor, she avoided all drugs, and had only one cervical check. This was a MUCH HAPPIER "BIRTH" EXPERIENCE! Pregnant moms and their spouse/ partner/ support person(s) learn how to stay healthy and low risk, how to prep their bodies for labor, to understand and utilize true informed consent and lessen poor outcomes. Our YBH® course emphasis is "symbiotic" in that we empower students to consider both normality (can this be normal - is mom and baby ok, what are the other evidence based options like waiting) in combination with, any medically necessary interventions that can benefit mom and baby (not routine interventions such as elective induction without medical cause which carries additional risks - focusing on use of medical interventions that remedy a problem, help moms overcome hurdles during pregnancy, labor or birth). The number goal of both medical staff and normality/ wellness experts is healthy mom - healthy baby! Working together, we can improve outcomes and further lessen risks for women bringing forth life. That is my YBH® Symbiotic Birth mission. The Surrogacy Foundation Celebrates First Baby Born Through Its $100,000 Grant Program Baby girl McGill marks a historic milestone for Atlanta nonprofit expanding access to surrogacy ATLANTA, March 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The Surrogacy Foundation, an Atlanta nonprofit expanding access to surrogacy, announced today the birth of the first baby born through its grant program. Baby girl McGill was born on February 24, 2026, to Shannon and Patrick McGill of Canton, Georgia, the intended parents, marking a defining milestone for the organization and a moment the family once feared might not be possible. In May 2022, Shannon McGill experienced life-threatening complications during the birth of her son. After an emergency cesarean section and severe hemorrhage, doctors performed a hysterectomy to save her life. She later learned that while she could no longer carry a pregnancy, her viable eggs meant surrogacy could still allow them to grow their family. "After everything we endured, we knew our story wasn't over," said Shannon McGill. "Being told I needed a hysterectomy was devastating, but hearing that surrogacy was still possible gave us hope. The truth is, we could only move forward because of The Surrogacy Foundation's grant. Without their support, it likely would have been years before we held our baby girl. Now that she's here, it's hard to imagine having to wait any longer." The McGills were awarded The Surrogacy Foundation's second $100,000 grant in October 2024 following a rigorous, multi-stage application and review process. The funding was made possible through proceeds raised at the Foundation's annual Surrogacy Soirée in February 2024. At the following year's Soirée, Shannon and Patrick met Charlotte Ramberg of Cumming, Georgia, an experienced gestational carrier. Ramberg is also a licensed professional counselor specializing in maternal and reproductive mental health, reflecting her long-standing commitment to supporting families. She was supported throughout her journeys by her husband, Kevin Ramberg. What followed was a journey marked by medical and psychological screenings, legal coordination, embryo transfer, months of waiting, and ultimately hearing their daughter's first heartbeat. "For me, surrogacy is an act of trust, hope, and responsibility," said Ramberg. "Every journey is unique, but the goal is the same. It is about helping a family welcome their child into the world. Watching Shannon participate in her daughter's delivery, then seeing her and Patrick hold her for the first time, was unforgettable. Outside of delivering my own children, it is one of the greatest honors of my life." The birth of baby girl McGill marks the first child born through The Surrogacy Foundation's grant program. "We talk a lot about access to family building in theory. This is what it looks like in practice," said Zach French, Executive Director of The Surrogacy Foundation. "A family who once heard 'you can't' is now holding their daughter because a community decided to step in." Gestational surrogacy in the United States can cost well over $150,000, placing it out of reach for many families. Through grants and partnerships, The Surrogacy Foundation works to reduce that barrier while promoting ethical surrogacy practices. The McGill surrogacy journey was made possible through a network of partners, many of whom provided pro bono or discounted services, including: Family Makers Surrogacy — agency support Claiborne, Fox, Bradley & Goldman, with Holland Goldman — legal counsel Sherriann Hicks Law Firm — legal representation Thallo Health — mental health support SeedTrust Escrow — escrow management International Fertility Insurance — insurance services Atlanta Center for Reproductive Medicine with Dr. Ashley Tiegs — fertility services Scarlet Oak Photography — photography Additional partners included: Northside Hospital Forsyth — delivery hospital OB-GYN of Atlanta — obstetric care Your Birth Helper — doula support A maternity photo featuring both families and a photo of baby girl McGill are available for media use. Additional images and video assets are available upon request. More behind-the-scenes moments from the journey are available on Instagram at @TheSurrogacyFoundation. For media inquiries, please contact Mariam Shahab, 469-441-8388,  409966@email4pr.com . This milestone reflects the growing impact of The Surrogacy Foundation's work. By the end of Surrogacy Awareness Month in March 2026, the organization will announce two additional national grant recipients and surpass $500,000 in lifetime direct financial support to families. About The Surrogacy Foundation The Surrogacy Foundation is an Atlanta-based nonprofit dedicated to making surrogacy more accessible through financial grants, education, and advocacy. By partnering with medical, legal, and mental health professionals, the Foundation supports intended parents and gestational carriers throughout their journeys. To date, the organization has raised more than $1 million to help families pursue surrogacy and continues to work toward normalizing ethical surrogacy and expanding access to family building. For more information, visit  thesurrogacyfoundation.org .

Breastfeeding is a beautiful journey, but it can also feel overwhelming at first. I remember those early days when I was eager to nourish my baby but unsure if I was doing it right. If you’re preparing to welcome your little one, mastering the basics of breastfeeding will give you confidence and peace of mind. Let’s walk through the essentials together, step by step! Why our YBH® Breastfeeding Fundamentals Workshop is a Game-Changer Taking a breastfeeding fundamentals workshop can transform your experience. It’s not just about learning how to latch or feed; it’s about understanding your body, your baby’s needs, and how to navigate challenges with grace. Our YBH® workshops often cover: The anatomy of breastfeeding How to position your baby comfortably Recognizing hunger cues Managing common issues like sore nipples or low milk supply Pumping and storing milk safely Imagine feeling prepared and supported from day one! That’s exactly what a YBH® breastfeeding fundamentals workshop offers. It’s like having a knowledgeable friend by your side, guiding you through every step. A peaceful breastfeeding space to encourage comfort and bonding How Early Should You Take a Breastfeeding Class? You might wonder, When is the best time to start learning about breastfeeding? The answer is simple: early is better! Ideally, you want to take a breastfeeding class during your pregnancy, preferably early third trimester. This timing allows you to absorb the information without feeling rushed and gives you time to ask questions and practice techniques. Why wait until after your baby arrives when you’re already adjusting to so many changes? Preparing ahead means you’ll feel more relaxed and ready to tackle any challenges. Plus, many classes require you to travel with your new baby creating even more challenges to the new family. Our YBH® breastfeeding workshops are offered both virtually and in-person. Some clients also compliment their childbirth and breastfeeding training with ongoing YBH® Doula support, so you can reach out if you need help once your baby is here. If you haven’t learned how to feed your baby yet, consider requesting a YBH® breastfeeding basics class to get started. It’s a wonderful way to build your confidence in either a private session and/ or connect with other parents on the same journey. Getting the Latch Right: The Key to Successful Breastfeeding One of the most important skills you’ll learn is how to get a good latch. A proper latch ensures your baby gets enough milk and prevents discomfort for you. Here’s what to look for: Your baby’s mouth should cover both the nipple and a good portion of the areola. Their lips should be flanged outward, like little fish lips. You should feel a gentle tugging, not pain. Watch for rhythmic sucking and swallowing sounds. If it hurts or your baby seems frustrated, don’t hesitate to adjust. Sometimes, a small change in positioning can make all the difference. Try different holds like the cradle, football, or side-lying position until you find what works best for you and your baby. Remember, patience is key! It might take a few tries, but you’ll get there. A mother practicing the cradle hold to achieve a proper latch Practical Tips to Boost Your Breastfeeding Success Breastfeeding is natural, but it’s also a skill that improves with practice. Here are some actionable tips to help you along the way: Feed on demand - Watch for your baby’s hunger cues like rooting, sucking on hands, or fussiness. Don’t wait for a strict schedule. Stay hydrated and nourished - Your body needs extra fluids and nutrients to produce milk. Rest when you can - Sleep deprivation is tough, but resting helps your milk supply and your mood. Use a nursing pillow - It supports your baby and reduces strain on your arms and back. Seek support - Don’t hesitate to ask for help from lactation consultants, doulas, or support groups. Every mother’s breastfeeding journey is unique. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small! Overcoming Common Breastfeeding Challenges It’s normal to face hurdles, but don’t let them discourage you. Here are some common issues and how to handle them: Sore nipples : Make sure your baby is latching correctly. Use lanolin cream or breast milk to soothe soreness. Engorgement : Try warm compresses before feeding and cold packs afterward. Frequent feeding can relieve pressure. Low milk supply : Nurse often, stay hydrated, focus on a well-balanced nutritional intake and consider gentle breast massage. Consult a lactation expert if concerned. Blocked ducts : Massage the area and apply warm compresses. Keep feeding or pumping to clear the blockage. Mastitis : This infection requires medical attention. Continue breastfeeding and follow your healthcare provider’s advice. Remember, you’re not alone. Many parents face these challenges and come through stronger on the other side. Embracing Your Breastfeeding Journey with Confidence Breastfeeding is more than just feeding your baby - it’s a special bonding time, a moment of connection and love. It’s okay to have questions and moments of doubt. What matters most is your commitment to nurturing your baby and yourself. No matter where you live, investing time in a YBH® breastfeeding fundamentals workshop, you’re setting yourself up for success! You’re joining a community that supports and uplifts you. And you’re giving your baby the best possible start. It's the perfect food for your baby, readily heated, and properly mixed! So, take a deep breath, trust your instincts, and know that every proactive step you take to prepare before your baby is born, will get you closer to mastering the art of breastfeeding after your baby arrives. You’ve got this! If you’re ready to dive deeper, consider enrolling in a YBH® breastfeeding basics class today. It’s a wonderful way to prepare, connect, and empower yourself for the beautiful journey ahead.

Embarking on the journey toward childbirth is thrilling, yet it can also feel overwhelming. One of the best ways to feel empowered and supported is by connecting with a doula. But how do you make the most out of your first meeting? Preparing for a successful doula consultation is key to setting the tone for your birth experience. Let’s dive into how you can get ready, what to expect, and how to feel confident walking into that conversation! Why Preparation Matters for Your Doula Meeting Meeting your doula is more than just a casual chat. It’s the start of a partnership that will support you emotionally, physically, and informationally throughout your pregnancy and birth. When you prepare thoughtfully, you ensure that your needs, fears, and hopes are clearly communicated. This helps your doula tailor their support to fit you perfectly. Think about it: Would you go to a doctor’s appointment without any questions or concerns? Probably not! The same goes for your doula meeting. Preparing ahead means you can ask the right questions, share your birth preferences, and get a feel for how your doula works. This clarity builds trust and confidence. Here are some practical steps to get ready: Write down your birth goals and fears. What kind of birth do you envision? What worries you the most? List any questions about doula services. What support do they offer? How do they handle unexpected situations? Gather your medical history and birth plan ideas. This helps your doula understand your background and preferences. Think about your support system. Who else will be involved in your birth? How can your doula complement that? Taking these steps will make your meeting focused and productive. You’ll leave feeling more informed and reassured. Preparing for a doula consultation in a welcoming space How to Prepare for Doula Meeting: Practical Tips to Get Ready Now that you know why preparation is important, let’s talk about how to prepare for doula meeting in a way that feels easy and natural. Here’s a simple checklist to guide you: Set your intentions. What do you want to get out of this meeting? Maybe it’s understanding the doula’s philosophy or figuring out if you click personally. Bring a birth plan draft. Even if it’s rough, having something written down helps start the conversation. If you are unsure of your birth preferences, no worry, this is where your YBH ®️ Doula and your YBH ®️ childbirth training comes in. We can educate you on birthing choices, and help you determine your own priorities to achieve your target 🎯 birth experience. Prepare your questions. Here are some examples to get you started: How do you support different types of births? What is your availability around my due date? How do you work with medical staff? What happens if you are unavailable when I go into labor? Consider your partner’s role. Will they attend the meeting? What support do they want from the doula? Choose a comfortable setting. Whether it’s in person or virtual, pick a quiet place where you can talk openly. Remember, this meeting is a two-way street. You’re interviewing your doula just as much as they are getting to know you. Trust your instincts and don’t hesitate to be honest about your needs. How much does a doula cost? If you’re wondering about the financial side of doula support, it’s a smart question to ask upfront. In Georgia and North Carolina, for example, doula costs can vary depending on experience, services offered, and package options. Typically, you might expect: Birth doula packages: $1,200 to $3,000 Postpartum doula services: $40 - $80 per hour Additional services: Childbirth education classes, breastfeeding support, or prenatal visits could be extra or built into some package prices Some doulas offer sliding scale fees or payment plans to make their services more accessible. It’s perfectly okay to discuss your budget during your meeting. A good doula will work with you to find a solution that fits your financial needs. Our YBH ®️ Doulas feature various coupon savings/ promotions throughout the year, in addition to, offering a 10% first responders/ law enforcement/ military discount upon request. Our YBH ®️ Doula Packages are also custom designed to fit all budgets. We do not require your doula support to be paid in full upon contracting. Our YBH ®️ support packages feature a variety of options: straight doula time (no added extras) to keep costs lower a variety of doula package options with built in childbirth education, prenatal and postpartum in-home visits lower deposit amount to hold your date on our calendar with time to pay remaining balance of prepaid support by 37 wks lower costs even more with payment via: personal check or cash to avoid additional credit card bank processing fees (currently 3.9 - 4.9%) other pmt options such as: apple pay, debit and credit cards, HSA / Flex account cards, etc. Knowing the cost ahead of time helps you plan financially and avoid surprises. Plus, it opens the door to honest conversations about what you value most in your birth support. YBH ®️ also has clients who like to pay it forward and donate funds to help other couples in financial need afford classes, and/or doula support. Should you strongly desire YBH ®️ services, and financial restraints apply, please advise your YBH ®️ Doula of your special circumstances and we can let you know if donated funds are available to assist you. When donated funds are available and applicable, they are distributed via scholarship towards your YBH ®️ Doula support package to help offset and make doula support attainable. We are grateful for those who contribute to such a worthy cause. Maybe, you also will consider paying it forward after your happier “BIRTH” day! Contact owner Pamela Sauls yourbirthhelper@gmail.com to donate or inquire about scholarship funds. Your Birth Helper ®️ Doulas also encourage clients to share their childbirth education and doula support wish lists on their registry and let friends and family who ask how they can help that we offer e-gift cards in $50 increments. Many would love to support your preparedness journey. It’s up to you to share how. Did you know most HSA or Flex accounts (pre tax dollars) can be used to cover YBH ®️ workshops, childbirth education courses, and labor, and postpartum doula support packages. Some companies may also have employment benefit programs like Carrot 🥕which now offers significant in-home support benefits. Ask your employer if these programs are available in your workplace. They can further offset costs and offer a much higher level of support during your vulnerable postpartum months. What to Expect During Your Doula Consultation Curious about what actually happens during a doula consultation ? Here’s a sneak peek: Introductions and rapport building. You’ll get to know each other, share your stories, and start building trust. Discussion of your pregnancy and birth preferences. This is where you talk about your hopes, fears, and any special considerations. Explanation of doula services. Your doula will outline what they offer, how they support you, and what to expect during labor and postpartum. Questions and answers. This is your chance to clarify anything and make sure you’re comfortable. Next steps. If you decide to move forward, you’ll discuss contracts, scheduling, and any initial visits. The tone is usually warm and supportive, designed to make you feel heard and empowered. It’s perfectly normal to feel a mix of excitement and nerves. Remember, this is your space to be open and honest. Building Your Birth Family: The Role of Your YBH ®️ Doula Choosing a doula is about more than just hiring a professional. It’s about joining a birth family - a circle of support that surrounds you with care and confidence. Your YBH ®️ doula becomes a trusted companion who advocates for you, helps you navigate decisions, and celebrates your strength. Birth Family is the best! Our now 15 year strong #yourbirthhelper #birthfamily spans nationwide and abroad. Our amazing YBH ®️ #athensbirthfamily and #charlottebirthfamily love to stay connected with childbirth classmates, meet new doula families at local events like play dates, monthly mama brunch bunch meet ups, walks/ hikes on greenway, even empowering the next generation of expectant parents during annual reunion events. Think of your YBH ®️ doula as your personal cheerleader, educator, and comfort provider. They offer continuous support that complements your medical team, focusing on your emotional and physical well-being. This kind of support has been shown to improve birth outcomes and increase satisfaction. Unlike one day event birth doulas, your YBH ®️ doula is there to adapt and support you every step of the way. Reach out as often or little as you need at no additional cost. To nurture this relationship, keep communication open and share your evolving needs. Essential items for labor support prepared by a doula Taking the Next Step with Confidence Preparing for your doula meeting is a powerful step toward a confident and joyful birth experience. By coming ready with questions, intentions, and openness, you set the stage for a supportive partnership that can make all the difference. Remember, this is your journey. Your doula is here to help you navigate it with knowledge, compassion, and strength. So take a deep breath, gather your thoughts, and step into your consultation ready to embrace the support you deserve. Your birth story is waiting to be written - and with the right preparation, it will be one filled with empowerment and love. Whether planning to train privately, in a group setting, want in-person, or virtual training, birthing in or out of hospital, invest 30 minutes of your time for a free YBH ®️ doula consultation.

Discover Your Birth Helper's expert services offering birth education classes and support for a joyful, informed childbirth experience. Prepare for Joyful Birth with Our Expert Birth Education Classes We use the term #SymbioticBirth to describe a more enjoyable birth experience by blending the best of the natural process with low intervention as in what is actually "medically necessary." Simply put, Your Birth - Your Way! Here is HOW... PICK YOUR CHOICE OF TRAINING* & FORMAT LOOKING FOR A DOULA? SCHEDULE A CONSULT (phone or in-person) PICK A CONTRACT (that fits your budget) PAY DEPOSIT (custom receipts can be provided for HSA/FLEX/CARROT, etc.) GET TRAINING* (Pick a class that works for you) BE EMPOWERED (Practice, Read personal client birth stories on our educational Blog page, follow us on Fb, Instagram, Pinterest, You Tube, etc. for birth announcement videos, tips from clients, and more. STAY CONNECTED Join in local YBH events, walks, mamas brunch bunch, postpartum support group meetings, etc. (fellowship with our YBH #BirthFamily) EXPERIENCE A HAPPIER "BIRTH" DAY WITH YOUR BIRTH HELPER & TEAMS! In Person Classes Your Birth Helper offers comprehensive birth education classes tailored to meet your unique childbirth needs. From practical training to emotional support, we ensure parents-to-be are equipped with the knowledge and confidence for a joyful birthing experience. Whether you choose in-person or virtual sessions, our expert-led classes provide valuable insights into labor progression, pain management, and post-birth care. Join us to embrace a smoother, informed childbirth journey with our birth education classes today. Virtual Class virtual/in-person combo Welcome to Your Birth Helper® Your Guide to a Joyful & Informed Birth Experience Explore Your Childbirth Education Options with Your Birth Helper® From 2-Hour Workshops to 4 or 12-Week Programs We also offer private classes and a condensed course that can be tailored to your needs. Choose the format that best fits your needs and location. Whether you prefer in-person, virtual, or private classes, we offer the right childbirth education for you. Our experienced instructors can help you gain the knowledge and confidence you need for a successful birth. Call me to discuss which training is best Our Symbiotic Birth course was designed by Your Birth Helper® to give first time moms and couples the practical training they need to progress labor and reduce unnecessary pain and discomfort. We provide comprehensive instruction for coaches, giving tips on how they can best support their partner and advice for first, second, and third stage labor, as well as breastfeeding basics and other post-birth care.

Purchase Your Birth Helper gift certificates in $50 increments and share e-gift card or a gift certificate upon request. YBH eGift Card $50 You can't go wrong with a YBH gift card for your expectant friends or family! Choose an amount. Write a personalized message to make this gift your own. This gift can save them thousands! #priceless Select your gift amount $50 $100 $150 $200 $400 $600 $800 $1,000 $1,200 Other amount Quantity Buy Now