Also written by new MOM, Angela Collins. It all started in a YourBirthHelper Labor Workshop, wait that’s not exactly true. I suppose it all really started when Jake and Angela decided to conceive a child. Then they found the #CharlotteDoulaDreamTeam and began educating and preparing for labor and birth. This story is empowering for moms who have health issues of their own. Mom, Angela Collins, knew the work she had in front of her, going into pregnancy combined with the daily struggle of what’s commonly known as "Immune compromised.” She had to explore the best routes to prepare, train and execute her birth to protect not just the baby's well being, but hers as well. Education and Preparation were key to their success in their obtaining their happy “birth” day goals. This is the John 16:21 journey of Angela and husband coach, Jake. For those not familiar, the scripture reference John 16: 21 (ESV) For when a woman is giving birth, she has sorrow because her hour has come, but when she has delivered the baby, she no longer remembers the anguish, for joy that a human being has been born into the world. For people of faith, pregnancy, labor and birth can be a time of growing closer to the Lord and strengthening their own personal walk. In addition, also a time of growing closer to their spouse and strengthening their marital relationship. Thus creating stronger family units. Simply put, it matters how a mom is supported during labor and it matters how a baby enters the world, because it often sets the precedence of how the family unit functions in the future. Throughout the bible, stories depict life is full of hardships and trials. They will come and if we are not prepared, its often difficult to weather or overcome them. James 1: 2-4 reads, Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. For Angela and Jake, it was way more than simply a decision of how to have a baby exit her body (as in to medicate or not), but to keep both mom and baby safe first and foremost. Below, in this slide show, Doula Nancy Cook, YBHD, BSN captures push phase and the excitement of Angela giving birth... Mom shared... I've dealt with doctors and hospitals for most of my life.  I have Ulcerative Colitis, which is an autoimmune disease and have been on a medication (Remicade) that suppresses my immune system since I was 15 years old.  I also have the privilege of working in the healthcare industry.  Because of this, I have learned to be my own healthcare advocate, and have had to do my own research and question the current standard of care.   I know that physicians intend well for all of their patients, but aren't always up to date on the newest research and are even slower to implement different and updated protocols for established practices.  Because my immune system is prevented from functioning normally, I have to take extra precautions to avoid infections and unnecessary antibiotic use.  This is my context for my pregnancy journey. I receive my medication every 8 weeks by IV, so I had major concerns about my unborn baby being exposed to the medication during pregnancy, and how it would affect his immune system after he was born. My Gastroenterologist didn't provide me any information about being pregnant with my condition, and didn't have any of the same concerns that I did regarding my medication, so I started pushing back.  I learned that I would have to take a break from my medication for a set amount of time around my delivery, and once our baby was born, he would have to avoid most vaccinations for at least 6 months because his immune system was compromised.  Again, this was nothing my GI doc freely shared, this was info I had to find on my own, which was frustrating.  It's exhausting feeling like you can't fully trust your doctor to make the best decisions for you, in addition to the pregnancy hormones which are already making you more sensitive than normal. I wanted to do everything in my power to keep myself and baby healthy during pregnancy and delivery, and in my mind, this meant avoiding any unnecessary interventions or procedures.  We learned about Your Birth Helper from friends of ours who had used their services a couple of years prior.  I loved the idea of having an expert on natural birth, who could also guide us in advocating for ourselves to avoid any unnecessary interventions that could put me and baby at risk for infection.  Because I was already exposing my baby to a medication that I needed, I wanted to avoid exposing him to anything else (epidural, Pitocin, etc.) if I could help it.  We took the labor workshop offered, and decided to join in for the last half of the 12 week Bradley Method® birthing course.  The classes were an enormous help, and we went into the labor process feeling empowered and encouraged that we could make this happen how I envisioned.   I was lucky to have Charlotte OB/Gyn midwives who understood my concerns, and appeared to understand when I declined some of the standard protocols.  I declined vaccinations during pregnancy, and any internal exams during office visits.  I was blessed to have an uncomplicated pregnancy, and was convinced that I would deliver a week past my due date.  Maybe that's what I was secretly hoping for, but baby decided that I would go into labor the day after my due date.  My husband Jacob and I went to breakfast on Saturday morning, and by 4pm that afternoon, my water had broken.  It was hours before I started to have any contractions.  I was expecting a long, slow labor, but again, I was probably just secretly hoping for time to adjust and mentally adapt to what was happening.  It felt like things really picked up pace quickly.  I started contracting regularly around 7 or 8pm, and pretty soon I felt like I couldn't catch my breath, everything was happening so fast. Jacob was great at coaching; giving me options for positions, providing counter-pressure for my lower back pain, being a needed positive voice, all while keeping in constant contact with my Your Birth Helper team for guidance.  I made it difficult for my husband as I didn't want to cooperate with any of his suggestions, and think I even kept my "I can't do this" guidepost moment to myself, so he really had to make a gut decision to take me to the hospital at 2am.  Our OB midwives only delivered at CMC main in Charlotte, and we live in Fort Mill, SC, so it was a long car ride.  My contractions were pretty much on top of each other the whole time and I felt the need to push towards the end of the drive.  It's worth mentioning that CMC Main will tell parents on the birth tour that they have valet parking, which is an amazing idea.  However, we arrived just before 3am, and they kindly told Jacob that he would have to move our car from the entrance himself after I got up to my room - they only offer valet parking during daylight hours.  Just the kind of curveball an expectant father wants when his wife is in late labor.   When we made it to the laboring room, they did insist on a fetal monitor for 20 minutes, and it was my biggest irritation.  It was so uncomfortable, but as we would find out, necessary for our baby.  I was ready to push from the time we got in the room, and couldn't help it at that point.  I tried to wait for the midwife to see how dilated I was, and was astonished when she told me that I was 9cm.  Pushing was truly hard, and I've never felt anything like it.  Zane Daniel was born at 4:44am.  It was good that we delivered quickly, as his umbilical cord was wrapped around his neck twice, and around his body once.  The fetal monitor had detected heart rate decelerations, so it was necessary to wear during labor.  Despite being completely tangled in his cord, he quickly turned pink, and was snuggled in for our hour of skin to skin contact. Wharton's jelly found within the umbilical cord is another layer of added protection for baby when this occurs. During recovery, Jacob asked our nurse how many truly natural childbirths she sees at Charlotte Main hospital.  She had been working there for 5 or 6 years, and she had only seen 3 or 4, said it was extremely rare.  Sad. Expectant Couples know this... It can be done, even if you have less than perfect health.  Be determined, and surround yourself with people who will support you.   Angela Collins Your Birth Helper & Team would like to thank Kathy Shields, CNM and the nursing staff of Charlotte Main( LDR), for their support of #SymbioticBirth, a perfect blend of the best of normality, paired with only medically necessary interventions. Special thanks to our own Sarah Neri, YBHD for instruction in The Bradley Method® combined with the awesome Doula Nancy Cook, YBHD, BSN~ now that's a team that screams very happy "birth" day! Congrats again Collins Family ~ your #CharlotteBirthFamily is extremely proud of you!

This is the low back/ sacrum of expectant mom Jennie Harrison. What we know about the sacrum is it known as the keystone of the body. It is NOT a baby exit! Unfortunately, some baby's do not get the memo and try to make their own exit. For most women, a classic contraction starts in the back and crashes in the front like a low menstrual cramp only stronger. In the event of back labor, the low back pain is ever present and only intensifies with each contraction. To say this makes for a challenging labor would be an understatement. Sadly, Jennie had an appointment for a pelvic adjustment the day after her birth. Simple suggestion for all expectant moms, if your back hurts when you have your monthly cycle and your back continues to aggravate you while pregnant do yourself and your back a favor, find a Webster certified chiropractor and have a good pelvic adjustment. Back labor changes everything and pain levels are often off the chart with little breaks, if any, in between contractions. I asked Jennie and Blake the following questions to better serve readers who may experience a challenging labor or birth: How would you describe your back labor contractions? Back labor contractions to me felt like burning, stabbing sensations in my lower back and pelvic area. When I saw the picture Pam took of the outline of my baby's head in the center of my sacrum then I understood why I was feeling what I was feeling. I could feel the contractions slightly around my uterus, as well, which felt more manageable in the long run. The contractions I felt in my back exhausted me to the point I could no longer truly relax so my body was more tense and the contractions became more intense and way less manageable. Doula Tip: Rear facing toilet sitting allows your coach or doula to apply counter pressure directly to the sacrum and S.I. joints in the pelvis. Don't forget other comfort measures such as hot or cold packs, massage techniques, & hands and knees position. What Adjectives would you use to describe your coach / husband? Amazing, strong, calm, encouraging, supportive, persistent and irreplaceable! Doula Tip: Coach should stand straight up no leaning forward, slightly bent knees helps and at least shoulder wide spread for more support. Switch up positions every 30 minutes to encourage progress and help you save your back also! What I enjoyed the most about laboring in an out of hospital birth center was... Having a relaxed spa like atmosphere with an abundance of options for laboring (The giant TUB, spacious bathroom, real bed, etc.) and the encouragement to move about as I felt the need. I can say without a doubt the TUB, warm water and dark room helped me relax the most. Doula Tip: Your labor coach or Doula can help support your head throughout labor, but extra helpful during hands and knees positioning. Our heads weigh way more than some may think. Also, when mom is extra tired while in the tub, its particularly helpful to make sure moms head doesn't sink or relax into the water. After having managed such a challenging labor, how do you feel your 12 segments in The Bradley Method® helped you during pregnancy, labor and beyond? Without the Bradley course, I don't think I would have been prepared for such a tough labor. I was able to labor for over 16 excruciating hours of back labor without intervention, because I utilized the relaxation techniques of allowing my body to work rather than fighting against the contractions. Relaxation, along with the breathing techniques and trying alternative positions, helped me keep my mind in tune with what my body was experiencing. If someone asked, why choose an experienced doula? What would your response be? I would recommend any woman going through childbirth to have a Doula. I know I couldn't have made it through without Pam. Having someone with her experience of positions to get the baby to cooperate with the body during labor, knowing how to respond to unexpected situations or when the birth plan must be altered, supporting you through every contraction, her expertise with medical interventions and educating to help you decide when they are necessary and her support for my husband as he coached made it possible for us to get through a hard labor, transport after meconium staining and avoid C-section, and follow our birth plan as much as possible through it all. Labor began Monday evening around 11:30 p.m., We arrived at the birth center when contractions were 3-4 minutes apart lasting beyond 60 seconds each, but sadly they learned they were only 1cm dilated and it was suspected baby was in posterior position. The couple residing over an hour and half away in South Carolina, made the decision to stick around town and do some walking etc. outside and inside center. Once the baby's first stool was confirmed in the leaking amniotic fluid, protocol is a routine transport down the street to Greenville Memorial Hospital. Shown here mom is namaste in the front seat of car in between episodes of vomiting. Mom gets settled into her hospital room and continues to labor as a champ despite throwing up repeatedly and excruciating back pain. It was clear to avoid a c-section we had to get baby turned around. The decision was made to utilize epidural and utilize key position changes with peanut ball prior to surgery. However, there is no skipping ahead, first step the couple started with an IV being placed and two bags of fluid. The call was made to the anesthesiologist by the nurse that Jennie’s prep had been completed, Unfortunately, the anesthesiologist was in surgery so, Jennie‘s relief was bumped. Surgery always takes precedence. This happens girls, you must have a skillset to manage contractions, short or long term or as I like to say it: Before and after pain management. Jennie continued to manage as best she could until the anesthesiologist could get her epidural placed. Even after, we still had work cut out for us. Getting baby‘s head realigned, monitoring the meconium staining making sure baby was good to continue labor and get baby downtown and ready to exit. For Blake and Jennie, the ultimate goal was still to avoid cesarean. With the epidural in place, in the event of medically necessary surgery, general anesthesia (in which dad is not present at birth), if emergency caesarean occurred would no longer be a concern. After about an hour of well deserved rest, we began adjusting moms position every 30 minutes, in an attempt to get baby’s head into the birth canal and help turn and rotate baby off moms sacrum. Then the moment we all had worked for finally arrived the words, “10cm dilated and ok to push!” Welcome to the World and finally into the arms of mom & dad baby OPIE! To recap, Labor started around Monday, June 10th 11:30pm. He was born Tuesday June 11th at 10:53pm. OPIE weighed in at 7lb 9 oz and was 20.5 inches long. As you can see, he is very loved And welcomed by a huge room of family who patiently waited for him to find the REAL EXIT! Congrats to Mom and Dad, Blake for such dedication to he natural way and empowering each other along the way! No doubt, I am #OneProudChildbirthEducator and #OneProudDoula 🙌 when couples learn, prepare and navigate through such hurdles to bring forth life I can’t help but beam with pride for them! It was my pleasure! Couples begin as students, but they end as family... #BirthFamily!

Meet the Hickok family, now party of four. The couple first contacted me regarding training and assistance for attempting natural birth in her second trimester. This the perfect time to get serious! If you want a different outcome than your previous labor and birth, you must not repeat what you did the first time. Different results come from a different course of action, not just saying the words, "I am going to have a natural birth." For Brittany, her first was an average epidural experience despite her shorter than normal length of labor. Nothing out of the ordinary which necessarily dictated use pain management, but fear seems to consume you when you don’t have a skillset to cope with contractions nor any idea what she was supposed to be doing. This situation also leaves men clueless of how to assist in any way. This time around she desired to attempt natural birth WITH education, training and a doula to ensure her success. We discussed a plan of action for her to achieve her birthing goals and then she got busy executing them. Brittany was formerly the energetic mother of one daughter, but after a few labor to do's, including the new Aladdin movie (during early contractions) after, on to Publix for her favorite sub sandwich well, now they have two girls! It's a story sure to empower other couples. Let me start at the beginning. She and her husband Joey reside in Covington, but planned to birth with the Women’s Healthcare midwives in Athens, Ga. Their car ride would include approximately 46+ miles by car. Dad's greatest fear for unpredictable baby #2.... you guessed it, Having the BABY in the CAR! After the movie and sandwich run they were in route to M2b Family farm to walk the hillswhen suddenly her bag of waters broke. Dad turned the car around and they immediately called me to be in route to join them at St. Mary's. Based on the outcome of this birth story, I wonder if Dad would've preferred catching his own in the car? Best keep reading to find out... Closer to her due date we met to walk the greenway in an attempt to help prep her body for labor and get baby‘s head lower. Let me say, Brittany, at nine months pregnant, gave me a workout. I was quite impressed! That should’ve been a red flag to me that as quickly as she walked me, her baby might be in a hurray and follow suit. They attended a Your Birth Helper workshop to learn both coping and coaching skills and husband Joey, quickly realized there is a lot involved in even one of many stages of labor, let alone all three. Brittany's number one goal for baby #2 was a low intervention natural birth. Dad's #1 goal well, having a baby in the hospital, not the car...lol. The couple arrived and began walking around the hospital lobby managing contractions together until a doctor observed them and politely escorted them upstairs. As soon as I arrived, Joey text me her room# I entered quickly, ran through the parking deck, through the lobby and up the elevator to the room. When I was two doors down I heard a baby crying. I opened the door to find this... I congratulated mom and scanned the room... I did not recognize the doctor? I immediately asked, "Where is Joey?" Brittany replied, "They sent him to registration." I said hello to an unfamiliar doctor, "who caught the baby", but he clearly appeared to be "caught off guard himself." Apparently, someone just grabbed him quickly from the hall. Poor fellow! I also said hello to the nurse and a few moments after, Jessica assisted with the placenta. Funny Jessica grew up at my home church and well, now has several kids of her own. We appreciate her support of natural birth. Dad arrived shortly after and I welcomed him bedside for new family bonding time. Amanda Allen, YBH Doula Apprentice arrived next, followed by the midwife (still in running shorts and tennis shoes), no doubt she ran all the way to the hospital! We encouraged Brittany to share details with Joey as to what exactly transpired after the staff suggested he go downstairs to officially register her. The couple had fun reminiscing their crazy birth story. She had not just lost her mucous plug, but when accompanied by hints of color red or pink, we call that mom's bloody show. It had been a busy morning, but the afternoon was about to get way busier. When the call came in that this was happening... One thing for sure, they would not be driving his vehicle to the hospital. Brittany had to also finish working, then get Joey where he needed to go, pick the dog up from the animal hospital, care for their daughter, cook dinner, etc. so needless to say, her contractions were disappearing about as fast as they began. Women and men need to understand this basic concept and how the body works or shall I say, "doesn't work" when moms are placed in stressful situations. Our bodies are so amazing and even when we are not aware, working overtime to try to protect our unborn babies. When adrenaline is released in the body it causes contractions to become ineffective, the labor begins to slow and it also can STOP labor contractions completely shutting down the labor. One of the many jobs of labor coach, is to keep mom a peaceful environment, help her remove and avoid stress and/or avoid people who stress her out, etc.. Now, in Joey's defense, this was totally out of his control and he did an awesome job, despite the chaos that followed the fire, to ensure their daughter, dog and others were okay. The vehicles parked nearby were last priority. Now for the details of what exactly transpired in room #3109 at St. Mary's hospital on June 9th, 2019 in the ten short minutes prior to birth that Brittany was left to labor alone... First, allow me to say again to all expectant couples, You CAN say "NO thanks" to leaving the room. You should say, "NO thanks" to leaving mom to labor alone. You are having a baby, Mom and Dad aren't going anywhere immediately after. Therefore, "NO thanks~ registration and paperwork CAN WAIT"... your baby, if ready to be born, WILL NOT WAIT. Now, in the staff's defense, most couples do not come in hot ready to drop a kid. However, like in this story, it happens and when mom is unmedicated, it’s even more unpredictable. When the expulsion pain hits, there is no misunderstanding that sensation. Now, in Joey’s defense, Brittany was still interactive, talking in between contractions. She shared she needed to empty her bladder and was feeling the urge to have a bowel movement in the midst of the admitting protocol. Brittany walked to the bathroom, emptied her bladder and immediately the urge intensified. With the next contraction, she confessed to us in that moment her immediate thought was "I want that epidural!" Well, hello! Anyone surprised by this statement? What woman being left alone and vulnerable so late in labor would not speak those words? Often, when a woman has properly trained to cope and manage labor drug free, it is in this moment we know she is very close to giving birth. It's known as the surrendering process. Mom IS in control of whether she surrenders her body to "give birth" or tries to restrict and control the pressure, tenses up her gluts and use of any other antagonistic muscle action in an attempt to prevent the baby from descending and entering the birth canal. The nurse checked and well immediately Brittany went from the toilet to straight back to the bed. A few short contractions later, the head was crowning. The staff seeing the midwife would ot make it in time, grabbed Dr. Samit Patel from the hallway. He caught the baby which emerged after five whole pushes and they notified registration to send Joey back upstairs asap. Meanwhile, I began capturing some video clips of the babies first moments with mom. After YBH Doula Apprentice, Amanda Allen arrived, we began tag teaming moms needs. Retrieving photos, orange juice, capturing the birth story while fresh on their minds and even giving mom a well deserved massage during her golden hour of skin to skin. Midwife, Hannah Turner, CNM did a full assessment and after mom was good to go. Brittany couldn't believe how good she felt so soon after birth. Another wonderful benefit of drug-free natural birth, the birth climax. A rush of natural hormones that rejuvenate mom from her hard work of labor and give her the needed strength to interact with baby. Even though Brittany had nursed her first, I reviewed and assisted mom and Baby Ava with proper positioning and the what to do's of breastfeeding. Ava Grace was an immediate champ at nursing! Simply put, Baby was Great! Mom was Great! And, everyone who walked into the room that evening couldn't believe how good Brittany looked so soon after giving birth! We can, because we see it all the time, as the majority of our clients experience low intervention drug-free births. There are multiple benefits to both moms and babies for trying regardless of the final outcome. Babies are almost always better off from the stimulation of labor contractions. But, like Brittany, if it doesn't happen the first time, well try try again! Just don't repeat the same scenario twice and expect a different more favorable outcome. Remember, if you want different results, you must not repeat what you did or didn't do the first time. Different results come from a different course of action, not just saying the words, "I am going to have a natural birth," but actually preparing for it and executing it! Specifically, for Brittany and Joey that was enlisting the support of a doula, getting some quality childbirth education and labor do's and don'ts, switching to a hospital that supports low intervention birth and changing to a midwife practice cities away known to encourage drug-free birth not just go along with it. As Your Birth Helper Doulas, our job to ensure moms wishes are not just supported, but that she is actually encouraged to meet and exceed her goals for her birth. It's what I call #SymbioticBirth and it matters. Is mom and baby okay? Is it medically necessary or not? What are our other options? These are just a few of the many training points that can change your entire experience and create happier "birth" days! And, now for those of you who didn’t cheat the details of this blog post, here are some helpful tips from MOM Brittany on how to achieve your own happy “BIRTH”day: Favorite Time Passer in Labor ~ In my ten hours of labor, definitely going to the movies (we saw Aladdin) was my favorite time passing activity. Our doula suggested so we could both be closer to our birth place city and away from the demands of our two year old. It took my mind off the contractions and it was nice to have one last mini date before baby. Describe your labor contractions~ Blogs and medical articles always seem to describe contractions as a "wave" which I truly did not understand the feeling until my experience. I could feel the contractions starting then peak then subside. For me, it wasn't a sharp pain, just a feeling of "cramping." Why did you choose a Doula for your second labor~ Whether or not to choose a doula should be part of your birth experience, should not even be a question. I can't speak for every doula service, but I can attest that Pam and her Your Birth Helper team, served as a wealth of knowledge for us at any time needed much of which was before and after labor. I could text, call, connect anytime I had questions or just wanted to ask a question or share an update. A great Doula doesn't just show up at the hospital and assist bedside and disappear. They serve as your ally in helping you educate, prepare for and empower you to have the birth you desire. My only regret is that I didn't have a doula with my first daughters labor and birth. What were your greatest challenges during postpartum with a growing family~ Resting! Pam teaches the majority of all postpartum issues can be solved with adequate rest. Sounds easy, but we are a very busy family and we are always on the go. So, taking time to rest has definitely been challenging. We also have a 2.5 year old daughter who has a hard time understanding her mama has to rest. Thanks Brittany & Joey for choosing Your Birth Helper! And, remember for growing families always attempt to educate the little ones of what is growing inside moms tummy and what is going to come out. Now as for the details, that's up to you. Just remember kids are way smarter than we would like to give them credit for. Choose age appropriate words and explanations. Don't forget pets struggle with additions sometimes too. One tip take the initial hat worn right after birth and place it in your pets bed before bringing home baby and your pets can be familiar with the scent of the baby prior to your arrival. Shown here, Big Sister Harper, reads about moms heart being big enough to give affections to the new baby too!

A few years ago, I met Megan and Gregory Tipton. At the time, they were very excited and expecting their first baby. The couple resides in Athens, Ga. They enrolled in my childbirth class and trained twelve weeks in The Bradley Method® to best prepare her body for labor and train dad to understand his role in helping coach her through contractions. The couple also wanted to be educated on how to best prevent, overcome or navigate through the many complications one might encounter to give birth. Despite a near perfect pregnancy, the last few weeks Megan struggled to maintain proper nutritional needs. It was hot, she would find herself on the couch and having missed a meal or two, because she just didn't feel like eating. This can be a struggle for even very healthy moms near term. The stomach is in very tight quarters, the baby has taken over our body and before you know it, things can change very quickly in the last few weeks of pregnancy. She phoned with a bad headache, I suggested she hydrate, check her blood pressure and check in with her medical providers. Her first baby was born via C-section for metabolic toxemia of late pregnancy. This time around, Megan was even more careful to maintain her well balanced meals, proper hydration and regular daily exercise for the increased stamina needed to endure however many hours her second labor would bring. Her blood pressure readings had been great and she was adamant in following the recommended Brewer nutritional plan (studied and proven at Harvard University to eradicate toxemia pregnancy in one week of correcting nutritional deficiencies). Sadly, few if any doctors offices share this important preventative nutritional plan to this day. Her good nutrition pays off and she carries full term with no complications! She and Gregory facetime phoned me just after 6pm Saturday, May 11th. Her early labor had began 4pm the day before and regular contractions had commenced that were commanding her attention. When a mom is trying to accomplish a vaginal birth after C-section, a different set of rules apply for departing for your birth place. For most moms, it is usually suggested to use the 6-1-1 for determining departure. Meaning 6 minute apart or less frequency, contractions lasting over 1 minute for over an hour. In Megan's second labor, Gregory had timed her active labor contractions for over an hour and they were rapidly changing and growing stronger and closer together as shown here. The contractions with a (D) noted beside it were double peaking contractions. Clearly, her body was working extremely hard to move the baby down and line her up for departure. The couple made the decision to head over to get checked out in triage at St. Mary's hospital. Being of Catholic faith, the couple found peace in their decision to give birth there. That peace was short lived as shortly after arrival they were saddened to hear the midwife on duty mention repeat surgery to them after her very first exam. The couple was aware of evidence based birth options, aka repeat surgery, as well as, the various challenges that lay ahead of them (similar to first labor hurdles). They held out hope for an increased level of support from their medical team, since both mom and baby were both fine. Thankfully Megan was not aware of her internal exam results, (only 1cm) however, Gregory shared they would go ahead and admit her to monitor her slightly elevated blood pressure which was 144/98. They immediately phoned me to head over to join them to help support them and assist in natural ways to overcome obstacles during what would become just shy of a 24 hour VBAC journey. For people of faith, I often call this their personal John 16:21 birth marathon. Labor is rarely a short sprint, no marathon clearly depicts what most women experience to bring forth life. It seemed to take an eternity before their room was ready. The hospital had a staffing issue in housekeeping and Megan could not get into the tub quick enough. She needed relief quickly from back and hip pain. Her IV was placed after several failed attempts. Note: VBAC clients are usually subjected to constant fetal monitoring after 6cm dilated in our best hospitals. Megan, was subjected to constant fetal monitoring upon arrival despite baby and mom doing well. Upon my arrival to triage, the wireless monitor had been placed, but was later removed and normal EFM beside followed until birth. Her uterus performed beautifully- super strong! Her baby cooperated beautifully- super strong throughout! We began in the tub for comfort as soon as her room was ready. She relaxed and managed her contractions well in the tub. Their night nurse, Kristen, first assigned to them upon admission, could not have been more wonderful and supportive! Both found her demeanor refreshing and greatly appreciated her support of their birth plan. Medical staff that put their personal opinions of how labor and birth go aside, and go out of their way to not just "go along with their birth plan", but actually "encourage the couple to meet their personal birthing goals", are quite rare, but greatly appreciated! Hours after admittance, the couple utilized epidural to help overcome her slow to dilate cervix. We changed positions every 30 minutes or so to assist her progress. Megan had an anterior rim of cervix that was being stubborn and it wasn't changing despite side lie with peanut ball. Since Megan had maintained some mobility in her legs, we even tried a frequently utilized position known to help overcome this issue, assisted hands and knees position, in a last ditch effort to try to put the weight of baby on the anterior cervix to help create change. Unknown to Megan, her internal exams continued to reflect no cervical change, however, the station "decent of baby's head" continued to progress so we were pleased with that progress. In the natural realm of the labor process this is commonly known as natural alignment plateau. Commonly known as "failure to progress" in a hospital setting. Sometimes, it's best to keep mom focused on her job not a cervical number, because in the end baby comes out. Amanda and I, were attempting to help Megan flip sides and surprise her water broke spontaneously! This helped Megan avoid routine use of Pitocin until the last few hours of labor, in which her uterus completed the job. The next day, a friend stopped by to encourage Megan and bring Gregory some Real Coffee - now that’s a good friend! Their priest also came by to pray over her and baby and perform bedside communion on Sunday afternoon. Megan was super tired from now two days of contractions as you can imagine, but her body continued to labor efficiently and medically, both she and baby were great. We could not have been more pleased with Megan's blood pressure, throughout, as well. Dad took his coaching role very seriously and rarely left mom‘s side. Shown here giving mom a well deserved neck and jaw massage. Ultimately, her uterus would decide to expel the baby despite the lip of cervix that remained present. That was made evident on the monitor reflected as heart rate decelerations, in response to her expulsion contractions. This commonly occurs when the head is being compressed as push phase commences. This continued despite the nurses efforts to resolve with position and monitor placement changes. It was at that time her day nurse, Emily, phoned for the midwife Alexa to return to the hospital. We continued to labor down and take deep breaths to help baby recover after contractions. I advised the couple not to worry that the decels can be quite normal in push phase and most likely her midwife could try to lift the cervix or see if she could push past it, but we would continue to use singing or low register noises to avoid pushing if all possible to protect her cervix. Upon arrival, her midwife Alexa shared she believed her body was ready to give birth and despite the anterior cervix she could try pushing through a few contractions to see if the cervix would go away. That is exactly what happened and Megan was an absolute champ utilizing the pushing techniques from her Bradley Method® training. With Gregory helping hold one leg, and I holding the other, we assisted Megan in curling around her baby. Megan used her abs, pulled back on her legs and pushed very effectively as Gregory counted to ten seconds with each push. She began second stage in side lie, after several pushes, her midwife suggested she fully engage with use of the classic position and with each push she was closer and closer to her baby. Gregory would announce the surprise gender and with the last push Megan opened her eyes to see her baby emerge! Baby was placed on her abdomen and then lifted by the midwife revealing the front of baby , as Gregory announced, "Its a boy!" Cheering commenced and Megan shared his name, "Leo!" Welcome to your amazing Your Birth Helper Birth Family baby Leo! You did good locating the exit! Ms. Pam is very proud of you. Thank you for allowing me to be part of your amazing “birth” day and for holding my finger and warming my heart! Your Birth Helper & team were thrilled to help the Tipton family prepare for their VBAC marathon and we appreciate you allowing us to be your doula team helping you execute and navigate through all the unknowns along the way! It was our pleasure! Special thanks to Amanda Allen, (YBH doula apprentice) for capturing this special journey in photos and her assistance throughout our near 20 hours laboring at the hospital. Lastly, special thanks to all the medical team at St. Mary's Athens and the Women's Healthcare Associates staff. We appreciate your continued support to couples who desire low intervention Symbiotic Birth! For more information/ course outline on The Bradley Method® birth prep visit: www.bradleybirth.com/pamelasauls For info on future intensive 2 hour labor workshops: yourbirthhelper@gmail or text 678-614-5604 to rsvp Next Ga workshop held @ #M2bFamilyFarm in Colbert, Sunday, May 26th 3-5pm Charlotte, Nc Sunday, June 23rd 3-5p All welcome! You can't ever go wrong being better informed, staying healthy and low risk and avoiding medical intervention whenever possible.

Not to be confused with a birth story... this is the journey of baby Story’s birth! Story found her “womb service” (thanks to mom Elizabeth) to be extremely comfortable and she was in no hurry, due date or not. She would take parents on an incredible, often a confusing, transition into parenthood, before she would make her grand exit into their arms. Tips from Mom: We are so happy we made the decision to educate and prepare for birth. I feel like we’ve grown together from training and beyond. It’s affected our approach to childbirth and the way we plan to bring our future children into the world. For me, the actual birth process made me really feel more loved than ever and know that he’s the only one in the entire world I could have experienced that with—I truly found my soulmate. I think my water broke...? These contractions haven’t let up...? They keep coming stronger and more regular...? Your water didn’t break... you have a posterior cervix.... the contractions went away during the night. Yes, for weeks Elizabeth and Aaron’s baby exercised patience. Mom and Dad, on the other hand were ready and tired of waiting. They had several bouts of practice labor runs and once even thought the water had broken, but despite all the fun baby Story was just fine where she was and like most healthy first time moms who carry 8 days over their due date, well Story was going to do the same. Tips from Mom: I didn’t believe people when Pam shared you would know when your contractions are actually real labor contractions. But it’s true. There is no mistaking them! Pam suggested based on all my bouts of labor and back pain, to go to a Webster certified chiropractor for a good pelvic adjustment. I did not go, but I highly suggest you do. I think exercising and not letting myself go, made my labor possible. If I were out of shape, it would have been impossible to manage such a difficult labor, most likely ending in surgery. The couple trained in The Bradley Method (r). Aaron was prepared for his coaching role! In 12 segments of study, the boys not only learn how to best support and coach mom, but also help relieve additional pain for mom through proper positions and relaxation techniques. Tips from Dad: Attending childbirth classes, created an irreplaceable bond. Walking through childbirth together, helps you fall even more in love with each other. Be as involved as your wife will let you. Dads should not just sit on the sidelines. Be supportive to her and willing to do whatever is needed. Although, residents of north Georgia, they had chosen the Greenville Birth Center, (along with their classmates shown above), as their choice to labor and hopefully give birth. Since Elizabeth was healthy/low risk, and Dad works in Anderson, SC, it just seemed a great fit for them. They also chose Your Birth Helper as their Doula support team. Shown above the couple prepares to “walk baby down“ by walking up the mountain in Clarkesville, Ga. Elizabeth was such a team player. She attended multiple UGA baseball games and met up with me several times for baby evacuation prep fun! We also walked the greenway and loosened up hips with full squats after a yummy Mamas Boy breakfast. Elizabeth was very in shape, nutritional sound from her Brewer “pink sheet” pregnancy diet and fit as they come and little did she know how those Abs would come in handy on her baby’s birth day! Tips from Mom: I can’t imagine not having taken the class. I planned for no epidural and that’s all I knew prior to the class. Aaron didn’t know any better than what he’s heard from other people’s experiences. So, I think he would have been super pro medical intervention immediately when they hit because he didn’t know better. I wouldn’t have been able to take my stand and labor through until I absolutely needed the intervention. I also had no idea how to fight contractions. So I would have ended up with a c section after the pushing contractions hit, because I wouldn’t have known better than to just push. We also encouraged relaxation, frequent naps (We snuck in a 30 minute nap for her) and I suggested earlier bedtimes now that she was beyond her due date. It seems Elizabeth hadn't been getting much rest. To get into active labor, we must get into a relaxed restful state. Nearly 80% of women will begin labor in wee hours of the morning after midnight. So, imagine you waited until midnight to go to bed and “BAM” you are awakened by regular contractions. Sleep is imperative for labor. Labor is a marathon, not a sprint. Sometimes, couples forget this. We need more sleep and rest near term and after birth than ever before! Because... there is little to no sleep during labor. We do our best to balance work and rest. Changing positions every thirty minutes when possible. No doubt Elizabeth and Aaron worked hard and long hours. Shown above out in the walking garden, midwife checks in on baby. We created a relaxing environment for work during the night. Between being sick, hot and totally exhausted, it was all Elizabeth could do to center herself. we Encouraged Aaron to rest and get off his feet a while too. The couple endured strong consistent contractions, coupled with back pain that didn’t let up and baby struggled to move down. Aaron spoke encouragement into her through each contraction. The birth center lighting and atmosphere was perfect for night time labor. It wasn’t soon before the tub was filled, the correct temperature and ready. Elizabeth relaxed well in the tub and was able to even get a few minutes of sleep in between each contraction. She was so very exhausted. Tips from Mom: Singing and making low noises helped tolerate the contractions the most, but focus on breathing even more so you don’t lose control. Aaron holding onto me always helped my contractions be bearable and then rubbing my belly and thinking about how I wasn’t suffering alone but Story wasn’t in a comfortable situation either. Having compassion for my baby helped. The couple began slow dancing to try to increase the station and encourage natural decent with use of gravity. It wasn’t long before the sun began rising and we became more and more active to help naturally progress labor. The very day Story was born, Elizabeth had been scheduled for a medical induction. Her homework had paid off and the induction would not be necessary after all. However, working through the night on little to no sleep would challenge her energy level to complete the job. What would later be necessary was an IV and fluids, to try to replenish all the fluids mom had lost during the labor thus far while throwing up (a normal part of labor and very common in transition phase). She had tried some Italian Lemon Ice, but unfortunately her stomach was like no thanks! Although, we prefer to avoid vomiting and IV whenever possible, the use of cool cloth, peppermint oil and switching to ice chips doesn‘t always rectify the problem if mom can’t keep anything down. We started with trying to empty the bladder which many laboring moms find difficult. Leaning in helps take the edge off the contractions, but it also increases the pressure and many women are not happy about taking contractions there. However, if you have the need to urinate at peak of the contractions, then toilet sitting is a great place to be! Amanda Allen, YBH Doula Apprentice, assisted Elizabeth with releasing as much tension as possible. Elizabeth‘s uterus was working overdrive trying to get Story’s head in the birth canal. When the head is in an acynclitical position and struggles to align with the birth canal, the head station, dilation of cervix, as well as, overall length of labor can be greatly challenged. Tips from Mom: Something very important is remember that just because the woman is the one carrying the baby and physically in labor, it doesn’t mean your husband isn’t part of the process and he isn’t going through emotions too. This is his baby too and he is invested. He feels a totally different weight, because two people he loves more than anything are in a challenging situation and all he can do is be supportive, a great coach and apply what he has learned from class. He is a huge part of the process. Let him in! Shown above her uterus pulls forward to try to align head. Mom uses peanut ball to keep hips loose and slack and continue to give baby Story an opportunity to allow the natural course of labor to progress. Soon it was time to sneak in another nap in between the powerful contractions. Tips from Mom: I feel like the advice Pam shared with me about not skipping bases And throwing your birth plans out the window in a long labor like this was so helpful. Go to the next step, don’t get discouraged and jump way down aka c-section. Without training, I definitely would have had a C section. I can look back and say I could have had her if she wouldn’t have gotten stuck at -3 station. Knowing how to overcome that scenario and what work it would take to do so helped us give true informed consent. Elizabeth has been using low register words in the form of singing like her baby’s name. Repeating consistently through the contractions slowly singing, “Stoooorrryy, Stoooorryy...” until the uterus released in which she would try to sleep again. we could all sympathized with her labor. Very common first time labor, slow station change, slow to dilate cervix and back pain.. bless! Dad shared... The hardest part of labor for me as Coach was watching my wife in agonizing pain and feeling like there was nothing I could do. At her next cervical check, it was found she had a large bag of water in front of the baby’s head. The decision was made at this time to try amniotomy to lengthen contractions and try to lower baby’s head position to help finish off her cervical dilation. Unfortunately, the amniotic fluid had the presence of meconium. Both mom and baby were ok, but protocol is a routine transport to the local hospital follows (just in case) for protection of mom and baby. The couple took a moment to embrace and we dressed Elizabeth and loaded the car. Their birth center midwife followed and would remain with them for the remainder of labor. Tips from Mom: I was disappointed when the meconium staining happened, but relieved too, because I needed a break so bad. I was so exhausted and hurting. I felt like the conversation about how the epidural could help me kind of set me free. I didn’t feel like I failed in any way, because I knew we had done everything we could and I had to listen to my body saying how exhausted and dehydrated I was. I had to look at it as a next step to try to get baby out vaginally, because I was so tired that I would have taken a C section. So, choosing to continue with an epidural, felt like a way to stay strong and finish what we started. I was relieved to know I was able to take a nap,(not everyone who has epidural can sleep), but I was still determined after my short rest, to push and hold my own legs back, just like I would have without the epidural. Getting the rest I needed, allowed me to be more alert and rested for when Story came. So, in my crossroads of labor the use of epidural was so much more wonderful, than it would have been if I had no energy to push or than if I would have just had major surgery. Clearly, Elizabeth was wiped completely out, but she managed to muster up a partial smile for our transport photo. We all had worked through the night and into the next day... Dad shared... Their really aren’t adequate adjectives to describe how amazing Elizabeth was throughout her John 16:21 labor journey, but I’d say Brave, strong, tenacious & unflinching! Once Elizabeth and Aaron we’re settled in down the street at Greenville Memorial, the decision was made to try to use an epidural as a last ditch effort to avoid c-section. In these sort of labor situations, at the crossroads we often call it... many couples choose to utilize medical interventions that can help them avoid surgery if all possible. In other-words, they choose to not skip bases (if mom and baby are okay) so, Elizabeth would try the epidural first and give her cervix and her contractions every opportunity to finish the job before. If surgery were to be needed, they would explore that when the time came. The couple was very blessed, the time for surgery didn’t come, but the time for pushing did! And, before you know it Elizabeth, held her own legs, curled over her belly and had given birth to her own self birthed “Story” now in her arms! They were relieved and instantly rejuvenate... she was just perfect! And, with a birth story like that, she clearly earned her name! Wait, which one... Welcome to your #AthensBirthFamily little Miss Story Payne!! Mom shared this cool first few moments text: “As soon as they put her on my chest when she came out, I told Aaron to put his hand under the blanket too, and she grabbed his finger and held on just 2 seconds old. 😭.” Arrived safely into moms arms after days worth of labor. Mom has this to say about Aaron after some rest... “Thank you so much for all your help! It was the hardest, but most special time ever. Even though we used the epidural, I didn’t feel like I failed, because I knew I had done everything I could have done before. I felt peace about it. It worked and I avoided surgery! And, p.s. I feel like I love Aaron a zillion times more after that experience!” Your Birth Helper is happy to have played a small role in enhancing their relationshi and helping them achieve their #SymbioticBirth or what I like to call, a happy “birth” day!

Readers, meet Melody of Monroe, North Carolina and be encouraged. She just “gave birth” to her first child on Friday, April 19, 2019. I emphasize giving birth, because SHE put in the work necessary to bring forth life. Even though she had a hospital birth, as so many first time moms do, she did not have her baby delivered from her body by a doctor. Melody and her husband, Wilson had educated, trained and prepared for this very day for 9 months. She knew what to expect and boy did her good nutrition, cross fit training and preparation pay off. We worked for two full days helping create solid contractions with our “Natural Induction” efforts. We successfully avoided a scheduled medical induction for post date -42 weeks gestation. I often say, “FREE YOUR MIND and the rest will FOLLOW aka baby!” Much like trying to get pregnant, stop trying so hard making yourself miserable and just have FUN while doing the things we know can help! Here are a few clips from our fun girl time aka baby evacuation. Our two days of walking, stretching, eating weird foods, included everything from eggplant, to Lebanese, to crab dip, frozen yogurt, loud music even the buffalo chicken pizza and olive oil shots! The key is do something different, switch it up on baby and your body, free your mind of the chore of labor and get in bed earlier thus giving your body time to actually get in a relaxed state. The couple trained under Your Birth Helper and the Charlotte Doula Dream Team through intensive labor workshops, home study and practice. She chose Piedmont OBGYN midwives (since healthy and low risk) and birthed at Atrium Health Pineville (formerly known as CMC Pineville location). Her contractions had been present for several days, but had not assumed a regular pattern. That’s okay. That’s often how the body prefers to work. A little here a little there. Her prep work, with dad’s help had gotten her to 3cm, 80% effaced! I had the pleasure of attending her 41 week appointment with her. Midwife Cindy Dellinger also did her part and assisted with a membrane sweep. Couples should know it is not unusual at all to carry beyond your estimated due date. The percentage of stillborn over 41 weeks is not even .5%. Don‘t be scared to continue being patient. In fact, the majority of first time healthy moms carry 8 days over. To confirm she made the right decision her ultrasound revealed both baby and fluid looked great and her Non Stress test was perfect and even allowed her a 20 minute nap. We were all dedicated to doing the work to finish the job. Do the things you can do to avoid medical induction, it is so worth your efforts. Labor has enough challenges all on its own, no need to add more. Labor had kicked in high gear around 2am and the couple managed contractions together at home and we all met up at the hospital at 10:30 a.m. shown here he couple chooses to walk to their room to further progress labor and move the head down. Stopping to pause for each stronger contraction. Triage nurse Kristen, was so encouraging and respectful to ask admission questions around Melody’s contractions so, she could stay as relaxed as possible. Beverly was the midwife on duty and was also extremely supportive of the couples birth plans. Sadly, baby was in a variation of posterior/ side facing and Melody was experiencing challenging back labor pains. Her mother and husband assisted throughout offering various comfort measures as we worked changing positions often to help turn baby. From leaning in, to full deep squats to open her hips, the couple took one contraction at a time drug free by choice. Together, they had created life and together they had trained to bring forth life naturally. Her labor journey was a beautiful example of the inner strength of an expectant Mother. Their faith in the creator and the natural process was also clearly evident throughout each phase of their birth marathon. From their praise and worship music, which helped to overcome an early urge to push and swollen full anterior rim of cervix, to constant change of positions, use of hands and knees, inversion positions and peanut ball, we did them all. Her water finally broke around 7cm dilated while conveniently attempting to empty her bladder. This photo is a perfect example of the unfailing love they posses for each other and their unborn baby. They worked and they worked never once giving up on each other. Bradley Doula and YBH Sarah Neri, YBHCE, also assisting we all stayed the course till the necessary work was done. And, like so very many women, the time finally came when Melody cried out to her savior for help and prayed her very own Good Friday prayer to complete her John 16:21 labor. After utilizing the recliner position, to try to relieve the early urge to push and ease her swollen cervix, Beverly suggested finishing off her cervix and further easing her back pain in the tub, as she had completed her two rounds of routine antibiotics for group b strep protection for baby. When things got really tough, Melody dug down deep and found strength from her spiritual walk and expressed it this way to the room, “If Jesus could bear, carry and die on a cross today... then I can get through a few more contractions!“ Wow! She had overcome so much to birth her way, the Symbiotic Birth way, with as few interventions as possible. Not just for baby’s safety, but her’s also. The next thing you know, it was time to labor down and Melody used techniques she learned in workshop to inch her baby down. We instructed Wilson to grab a pair of gloves and get ready. Her mother and I, helped hold a leg while Melody utilized the classic position for second stage. Not only did Melody master the art of proper push techniques in about 10-15 minutes, her progress with each push continued to move her baby‘s head down, despite his posterior position. Her former cross fit training had helped her create strong abdominal muscles and push through quite literally. We later noticed the cord was wrapped around and between his legs as shown above, as well as, over his shoulder. Seems he was quite the little gymnastist in there. Despite one loop of cord around the neck at birth, Wilson was ready and helped catch the baby. At 5:30 p.m Good Friday became good for another reason.... “baby Broadway” had emerged. Dad took hold of baby and placed this adorable baby boy on his wife’s chest. After a minute or two had passed, we were all still anticipating the announcement of the baby’s name. Suddenly, mom and dad announced, his name is Deacon Lane! The Broadway’s, have just started their walk into parenthood! Through days of efforts they kept their faith in God and each other throughout labor and birth. I just bet, when life brings future challenges, these two will rise to the occasion together to tackle them, one by one just like her contractions. Welcome to your #CharlotteBirthFamily baby Deacon Lane! Congrats again from the entire YBH #CharlotteDoulaDreamTeam we are all so very proud to share another amazing #SymbioticBirth story! The best of normality coupled with only medically necessary interventions. It just makes for happier “birth” days! Let us help show you how.

Many women, all over the world, have invested time, lots of time to be exact, hours upon hours of reading, daily prayers, avoidance of harmful things, even physically preparing their bodies to some degree. All worthy efforts. Then the day finally arrives in which you hear the words, “Congratulations you are pregnant” or you see that “+ symbol“ and it sinks in, “We did it!“ Together, we have created life! A sigh of relief for women who have adamantly tried. You recall with great accuracy that feeling which consumed you, that moment when you learned, “I‘m going to be a Mother!” During a routine anatomy scan week 21, the couple learned something was wrong with their baby’s heart. To say they were anxious was an underestatement. Fewer women, pay even more close attention to proper nutrition and daily exercise as it applies to pregnancy and reproduction and even a small percentage of women take an even more watchful eye, including avoidance of nearly all over the counter meds, not just prescription medication and go above and beyond still to avoid preservatives, additives, caffeine, excess sugar, pesticides, etc.. As a chiropractor, Emily knew she desired an OBGYN / CertIfied Nurse Midwife practice, as her birth plan aligned best to their model of care. Specifically, a provider who would support her wishes of more hands off care, a happier blend of normality, coupled with only medically necessary interventions. It’s what I like to call, Symbiotic Birth. Week 22, arrived they were seen by a specialist, Dr. Rosmond. Week 23, they saw the cardiologist. Their first born was diagnosed with Tetralogy of Fallot. Pregnancy is not always 9 months of rainbows & puppydog tails. Sometimes, couples are heavy-hearted and must make tough parenting decisions long before baby is born. Emily combated the bad news with a newfound strength. Cory continued support of her birth plans, despite the uncertainty of how it would play out and assured her she could rely on him during labor. The unexpected news of baby’s heart defect seemed to further fuel that flame of desire of wanting to bring their baby safely into the world with as few interventions as possible. I could not be more proud of this power couple! Many of us have watched a gender reveal video or two and can quickly relate to the overwhelming excitement on the faces of expecting parents. However, you could see how many of those same smiling faces when faced with one of the vast unknowns of pregnancy, a complication for mom or baby, would just allow their labor and birth plans to simply fade away. Furthermore, for some, what is typically meant to be just a simple routine screening or intervention, such as AFP test or often ultrasound can reveal unexpected results, even false positives of which women and men are not always prepared for. Yet, they do happen and happen way more than some would like to acknowledge. Parenting is hard work! That will never change. Of course, we need to properly educate and prepare our bodies (eat well and exercise), but maybe even more so, prepare our hearts and minds to weather such news, should it happen to us. This couple’s journey is a true example of the effectiveness of what Dr. Robert A. Bradley explained in his book, Husband Coached Childbirth. It’s more than just physically relaxing through a contraction. Women must learn to be emotionally, mentally and physically relaxed to experience a natural birth with ease. As in the story of baby Parham. Her journey here was one of joy beyond belief, coupled with great anxiety and some sleepless nights. It’s funny how the universe has a way of preparing us to become parents long before a baby is born. Emily, a trained and highly educated chiropractor had excelled in her preparation for the day she would hear those amazing words, “YOU are having a BABY!” She could not have been happier! Little did she know, that despite her efforts to prepare her body and do all the right things leading up to pregnancy would be met with circumstances out of her control that would challenge her emotionally and mentally. There is a feeling of unjust adversity that comes rushing in like a tidal wave and in that moment the happiness and JOY quickly gets consumed with anxiety and stress of the unknown as if a tsunami is upon us leaving us speechless and feeling as if we can’t even take a deep breath. It is in that moment, we must pause and keep it simple, “let’s get through today one deep breath at a time.“ That we do have control of. Emily knew how important it was to simply breathe, because she had been attending Your Birth Helper events long before her own pregnancy. So, this birth story illustrates how to grow stronger along with your baby, to move forward, to reconnect with your spouse after challenging news and to pause, recenter and “JUST BREATH!” She pressed forward daily after hearing the news, “Your Baby has a heart defect.” You see it didn’t stop there, she also heard things like, “You may have to be induced...” and various other statements that for most would weigh very negatively upon their mindset. There was a heaviness that came upon her. She immediately saw her dreams of natural birth going out the window. This wasn’t just something she wanted, her natural birth was supposed to happen. It’s how she lives her life, “drug-free,” as nature intended, saving medical interventions for those who truly need them. Now, she and their baby were subject to additional maternal fetal medicine appointments & appointments to a cardiologist, not only challenging their time, but also their pocketbook. Both left feeling, “this can‘t be happening, not to us and certainly not our baby.“ We did everything right! Yes, some couples realize rather suddenly that parenting is extremely hard long before baby arrives. No, it’s not fair, but it is Mother Nature in all her unpredictability. Emily is also known as Dr. Emily Parham of Granite City Chiropractic and it’s hard to be out of the office when clients are also relying on your care. Not only did she stay positive and become overly knowledgeable of their babies medical condition, she found her smile again. She and her husband Cory, began training in The Bradley Method (r) the best known childbirth educational prep for preparing for drug-free, low intervention natural birth. She simply wasn’t throwing her dreams and wishes of how she envisioned her first baby’s happy “BIRTH” day out the window. She continued to focus on what they had control over: good nutrition, exercise, weekly childbirth classes and focusing on her target birth experience. When Emily asked if I would be her doula it went like this, “hey Pam my due date is December, 25th, do you work Christmas day?“ To which I replied, “ Do you know how few actually have a baby on their due date?” Turns out, I would be right. There was no baby on Christmas Day, (most healthy moms carry 8 days overdue). Her 39th week appointment had arrived and we were to meet after for lunch to discuss natural induction methods. When Emily arrived she began quietly sobbing over chips and salsa. She shared there was new concern over baby’s health. The words “less than 1%” had her unnerved and facing medical induction. I had advised her to go ahead and have her cry. To get it all out, because we had work to do. The best use of time is to help get yourself into labor. Waste no time - every minute counts! We created a strategic game plan over a nutritious lunch at Aqua Linda in Athens, Ga. The week of Christmas was upon us and the last thing Emily needed was another hurdle to jump. She shared she agreed to come in on Wednesday for induction, as she had patients of her own to see that night and the next day in her own office. We had devised a plan in which she would try a membrane sweep (which she was not thrilled about). I explained how to use interventions in her best interest to do everything she could to avoid chemical induction, yet still accomplish as much of her birth plans, as possible. She would need some sort of cervical action to utilize Foley / Cooks device, also a non-chemical form of induction. Emily did not want to be subject to constant monitoring or pitocin if all possible. We discussed how dad could help prep cervix, how upright positions and walking could lower head and save intervention like amniotomy for last resort efforts, to maintain equalization of pressure for baby’s safety. All valid options of which would still help her stay on track for her target birth preferences. Also, if weighing benefits and risks, all less invasive choices. It was a great recipe and soon contractions were steady and progressing. (Special thanks to Hillary for stripping her membranes, December 18, 2018). A total of 8 hours of labor, the first 3 at home and the last 5 hours played out in the hospital and it sure wasn’t long till Cory was texting for suggestions and to head over. I walked into what appeared to me as an overwhelming urge to bear down mixed with fighting push phase. It’s quite a confusing time. I reminded Emily of her job and how to create an effective push. Let’s just say she #Nailedit !!!!!!!!! I chose The Parham’s for our 2018 Birth Story of the Year for Georgia, because despite all the road blocks that confronted them, they continued to educate, train and rose to every occasion, despite a few unconsolable tears drops along the way. Sometimes, we just need a little cry, a deep cleansing breath and to put one foot in front of the other each day. With the final push, the room was filled with celebration, minutes later, a little nervousness crept in as baby left moms arms to undergo an important exam of her own. Dad accompanied baby and nurse Jessica and I, tended to mom. Unfortunately, Nikki missed the birth (Emily didn’t waste any time pushing her baby out quickly), but arrived just in time for helping me spoil mom with a foot massage and refreshing orange juice after birth. In the popular holiday movie, How the Grinch stole Christmas, the classic movie line reads... “his heart grew three times its size that day”... I think the same happened to the Parham family ❤️ now all together, their hearts were made stronger! Your Birth Helper is happy to welcome little Miss Adaline 🌹 Rose who came wrapped in a different kind of bow 🎁 6lb 4oz 19.5inches. Born at 11:54pm on 12/19/18 and was home just in time for Christmas on the farm!

I present to you, the Fetal Heimlich maneuver! I was fortunate to capture this amazing photo and even more thankful my clients agreed to allow it to be shared. It's a natural phenomena in which the intact mother's perineum pressing inward on the baby's ribcage, naturally expelling any mucous/fluids in baby's mouth and nose. Even today, few are aware of the Fetal Heimlich maneuver, its benefits and reason to help prevent medically unnecessary episiotomies or extensive tearing whenever possible. We can not prevent all tears or necessity of episiotomy, but we can support mom's perineum during crowning with use of oil, perineal massage and hot compress. We can also help mom slow those last few pushes down. We can allow mom to choose a more favorable pushing position for her body and comfort level. And no doubt, with the expertise of a fabulous midwife, increase the success rates of protecting more women from what could possibly have been preventable damage to their perineum. I have had the pleasure in now three states, to witness some of the finest midwife work. Allow me to brag on a few... above the amazing Tina Moreno, CNM with her awesome work and support. I have had numerous first time moms have a completely intact perineum with their first baby! Some of my new favorites, here in Athens, Ga, Hillary Midler, CNM & Hannah Turner, CNM they both have remarkably has assisted several of my GA birth family in avoiding damage to perineum... thank you Hillary & Hannah for your dedication to support baby & bottoms! The "until you witness it first hand, you wouldn't believe it" work of Tina Hayes, CNM... I dubbed her the Leonardo da Vinci of birthing. I compare her skillset of protecting the perineum to that of painting the Mona Lisa down below. It's a process full of patience and coaching that works for skilled midwives for many years. Another, controversial topic is the difference in how a skilled midwife handles a nuchal cord as shown below. Some OBGYN's will immediately clamp and cut to free nuchal cords, where as many skilled midwives & OB's will birth baby, if all possible and simply unwrap the cord after birth. The cord is full of what is known as Wharton's jelly, a substance which insulates and provides protection within the umbilical cord. Remember, as long as your placenta has not detached, your baby is receiving oxygen from the cord (not mouth and nose) until the cord is cut. At that time, baby must take its first breath. Ready or not. Did you know, even to current date, we sometimes shockingly witness OBGYN's and even on a rare occasion a nurse midwife, who flat out refuses to perform preventative work? We have heard everything from "No", to "No that's what the baby does", to "you are going to tear into your rectum if you don't let me cut you" (while still forcing the mom to remain flat on her back and refusing to do the work which could prevent damage)?? And, we are not just referring to epidural clients who have little to no use of their legs for other positioning. I've even experienced an OBGYN who spoke the words (when my client reaffirmed she was told she could choose her position), "of course, you can choose your pushing position". What followed was my being bumped from the bedside so, that the nurse could step in and assist the doctor in his way of birthing. Then, as a helpless doula, I had the unfortunate pleasure of watching as he physically pulled the pee pad underneath her, until he had her exactly where he wanted her and all while the head was emerging. He had physically pulled off her side to flat on her back. I was shocked as he continued zero support to baby's head, even after birth of head completely took both hands off allowing the baby to rest solely on her perineum as he clamped & cut while Dad said we wanted delayed cord clamping. We entered the hospital at 9cm, walked to the room, she had a beautiful experience up until this point. The OBGYN maybe spent 10 minutes in the room prior to birth and sadly, my client had to be taken back minutes after giving birth drug free to the operating room to undergo extensive repair under general anesthesia. If you are a provider, don't misconstrue this message, we are not expecting you to work miracles, nor are informed clients unrealistic, we simply are asking, Please just PERFORM THE WORK that is within your power to help prevent damage. In other wards, be open to change and supporting the perineum. Your clients will rave about you, even if a tear happens if you can encourage and be mindful of the wishes of those who are paying you for a service. And, refer their friends! Readers, these extreme examples do not reflect all practitioners, nor a specific title, there are still very good OBGYN's who will do all they can to help prevent damage. I even literally coached a Charlotte OBGYN (like a cheerleader) into protecting my clients bottom. He was such a team player and couldn't believe she had labored drug free and had a successful vaginal birth of what an ultrasound considered too large to birth vaginally. In fact, with the use of oil, compress and support Dr. Lucas was able to birth her 10lb baby boy, with her perineum in tact and just two stitches! Now, that's an awesome OBGYN! Be mindful of the following: - You are paying your providers for a service~ choose wisely. - Tailor sit often, practice deep squats/ natural stretching of the area, avoid soap and other drying agents which can destroy your body's natural PH and oil glands. - Consider including your preference of perineal support/massage on your birth plan. - Laboring down and pushing in a position utilizing gravity can help. - Oil and massage with controlled breathing/positive pushing techniques can help. - Your midwife or doctor does not typically remain bedside throughout hard labor. In many hospital births, we may not see a provider until toward the end of push phase closer to crowning. - An episiotomy can potentially shorten push phase, however, we typically tear in addition to, or as head emerges extend the original episiotomy. - We typically tear around blood vessels. - If ever there is a fear of upward damage into the clitoral area, choose wisely, with the episiotomy, at least one of the benefits is to try to direct in which way the tear goes. - If mechanical assistance is necessary, most common is vacuum extraction or forceps. In the past, episiotomy was most commonly performed in combination with use of forceps due to the size of forceps blades entering the birth canal. - In unique circumstances, an episiotomy could potentially spare a mother a C-section (if baby in trouble) and/ or shorten push phase. Remember, we can't prevent all tearing or necessity for avoiding episiotomy with good positioning and proper push techniques, but even in unusual situations we can attempt to limit excessive damage. In the best case scenario, prevent tearing all together, provided your baby does not enter the world with a hand under its chin or an unusually large head size, of course. It is imperative you choose a practitioner who will honor your preferences, do what is medically best for you and your body and not simply choose a position that's easier for them. Make no mistake, if your definition of a happy "birth" day includes some personal preferences, IT MATTERS WHERE and WITH WHOM YOU BIRTH. There are no re-do's. There is a difference in a provider who says they will support your wishes, who goes along with your birth plan and those providers who actually go above and beyond to encourage their clients to achieve their birthing goals. Education matters, Preparing your body and training matters. Once you know your birthing options, you can best determine where to birth. For example, you desire use of tub or water birth, that will narrow your choices of where. Once you determine where you desire to birth, ask around for supportive provider referrals online, in various mom groups, LLL mtgs., call your local Doula's and Childbirth Educators and ask any nursing friends who they might recommend that aligns with your preferences. Find the provider that's right for you- everyone benefits from a little homework! #fetalheimlichmaneuver #episiotomy #postpartum #postpartumrecovery #postpartumhealing #controlledpushing #nuchalcord #WhartonsJelly #MidwifeAssistedHospitalBirth #Midwifeassisted #Midwife

Couples demonstrate proper squatting and learn how to protect the uterine ligaments and how Dad can help! Shown on the left our #AthensDoulaDreamTeam Doula Apprentice, Nikki Reeves, her husband Todd and their surprise gender baby! In some workshops, we not only talk about how consuming dates can shorten your labor, (ACOG tested) we taste and try them, as well! Special thanks to Doula Apprentice, Dianna Rutledge for treating the class to Dates her way “stuffed with cheese” #YUM! We empower women and their coach to properly educate, prepare and practice for this amazing one day event... your Labor Day! Labor is a one time event in which you can not have a re-do! Imagine a partner who knows how to help you lower pain levels and properly support you through labor... now that’s #Priceless These awesome gals! I am so blessed to train them, assist them and pour in knowledge in which they can bless the next generation with the knowledge that happy “BIRTH” days DO EXIST, regardless of how the baby exits your body. Of course, if you plan, prepare and practice what we teach you, our couples are quite successful in avoiding unnecessary medical interventions and know how to discern and make decisions necessary to stay on track to meet their birthing goals! Special thanks to former Doula Client Alisha for paying it forward today and sharing her amazing skills with expectant moms! We are so thrilled to have her in our #AthensBirthFamily! Baby wearing expert, Alisha Berkland shares options, demos and tips for wearing one or more babies and or toddlers! Other training options include traditional birth training (12 segments of study) in The Bradley Method (r) which is the most detailed of all birth education and 87% successful in drug free natural childbirth. For more information on a Bradley Method class near you: bradleybirth.com For Athens, Ga and north Ga www.bradleybirth.com/pamelasauls For Charlotte, NC www.bradleybirth.com/sarahneri Email Pam @ yourbirthhelper@gmail for more childbirth education options and information! Your Birth Helper is so pleased to host monthly childbirth education workshops now in multiple states, in which couples with busy schedules, and who often do not have access to quality birth training can attend and not only have as much birthing knowledge and tips crammed into a two hour session as possible, but those in attendance enjoy fun, fellowship and laughter in the process! #husbandcoached #symbioticbirth #ACOG #dates #naturalbirth #childbirtheducation #birthprep #birthtraining #laborandbirth #BradleyMethod #secondbirth #M2bFarmFun #AthensBirthFamily #Colbert

This birth was chosen for our YBH Charlotte Birth of the Year, for many unique reasons. First, watching this couple labor together, moved me and others in the room to tears, literally! Second, the husband coach, Wes unknowingly helped write his own birth story. Normally, I write the birth story from the perspective of Doula, in combination with sharing answers to questions I ask the couple, along with educational information that applies, as to better prepare other couple's reading the story. This couple, was so in sync! They remained committed to the natural process, despite such a long and strenuous labor, with so many unknowns, that I decided to focus on his responses to the following. So, without further ado, I share the beautiful, heart warming labor marathon of Elysa & Wesley Espinoza as highlighted from Dad's perspective. If you are expecting a baby, if you feel inadequate to support your mate during labor, if you desire to learn from others a better way to birth, THIS BIRTH STORY IS A MUST READ! We begin with my questions in Bold Wesley's responses in Bold Italic Wes, could you imagine being untrained, clueless and simply being a spectator at your baby's birth? Not at all. We wouldn’t have been able to achieve our birthing goals without the training and guidance from Your Birth Helper. Because of the support, I knew what to expect and was able to be proactive. Without the training and assistance, and with the circumstances of my wife’s labor, I feel like without it, we definitely would have ended up with a c-section and much longer recovery period. In regards to undergoing an induction, my best advice to others would be....? The moment you attempt to fight a chemical attack on your body with natural methods, you’re going to have one heck of a battle. It does not mean it can’t be won. It means you need to be prepared to be tested every step of the way. The body is strong, but the mind is stronger. Educate yourself, set timelines on intervention methods, and know your options. Also, be flexible because plans change. Take it one decision at a time. Ask the staff, “Are there any other options? What are the risks, Why are we moving on from our original plan?” Just make sure you ask why. Why did you choose YourBirthHelper.com? Your Birth Helper came highly recommended by another dad in the area. We connected via social media and he expressed how helpful the team had been in their birth experience. Pam and her team have extensive experience and knowledge for all situations and all birth wishes. This team works with you to craft your ideal birth plan through education and will support you in any way you need. It’s more than simply hiring a doula, it’s joining a family. The couple first attended a Labor Workshop and quickly realized there was much to learn. They determined YBH Doula services could help them obtain their personal birth goals and wanted to make the best of the training time that remained. Therefore, they enhanced their skills and understanding of how to work with her body during labor by attending additional birth classes. Shown here, the couple learns a variety of techniques to help with support of Mom while allowing her to sink down into a contraction. With dad being 6'5" any help to save his back is good. The average contraction is 60-90 seconds, right about the time brachial plexus would start making arms tingle. After contraction, of course mom stands and rocks hips out. How do you feel the labor workshops and intense training classes with Sarah Neri, YBHCE, benefit your experience? I was able to tell what phase my wife was in every step of the way and how to best support her. Without these classes, I would have been clueless and probably in the way a lot. Because of these classes, I was a part of the birth and not just a cheerleader on the sidelines. What was the most memorable part of your labor of love? When I knew Elysa had reached her “DND mode” we ended up staring in to each other’s eyes, for what seemed like hours. She explained after that she felt like she was gaining strength from me, involving me in the labor. We were both able to let go of our fears, doubts and tension when we locked eyes. Another part during labor was when Elysa needed to avoid pushing too early. She had taken the nitrous oxide and her body was relaxing through contractions, causing some involuntary pushing. To prevent this, it was suggested to sing a song. We ended up singing “you are my sunshine” over and over again which not only helped her get through the need to push early, but also connected us and allowed her to focus on moving through the discomfort. What the medical staff could've done to better support us and our birth plan? The majority of the staff was incredible and put our wishes first. If this had happened at another hospital, we most likely wouldn’t have encountered the happy ending we did. At one moment, when my wife entered transition and had been laboring for a very long time, the midwife came in at the end of her shift and proposed having a c-section. She did not provide other options up front and did not provide risks for continuing vaginally. We wanted to take steps before we jumped to that point, so we asked for a few moments to talk through and were able to find another solution (nitrous oxide) that led us to have the birth story we wanted. What would you tell others who think going blindly into this is the way to go? Those men and women whose mentality is: "no need to prepare ahead of time that's what doctors and hospitals are for, "We are just gonna do what they tell us to" or the concept, "Women and their body instinctively know how and what to do to give birth." Good luck! I thought we were being overly cautious with all the preparation we were doing for our first birth. I thought instinct would even carry me. The classes were originally extra precautions taken to learn more about birth, but they definitely came in handy during the laboring process. Instinctively women do a lot of things wrong during contractions. That's where a good coach and doula comes in to help mom correct such things and experience the least amount of discomfort during a contraction. As Pam says, "We have to have a contraction to have a baby, we do not have to do everything wrong and increase pain levels." Anything else you want to share with the readers of this birth story? My favorite parts of the laboring process were when we connected through dancing and singing and not speaking at all. We connected on a spiritual level and grew closer through this experience. We were able to do this because of the prep work in the weeks leading up to the birth. We often discussed our birth plan, how to handle pain and what we needed from each other when game time came. We practiced relaxation together and focused more on what increased comfort. I suggest all couples stay open with one another about birth wishes and needs throughout the entire pregnancy. This way, you’re fully prepared to support one another when it matters most. Even though you both knew women can hemorrhage after birth, describe at that moment how you felt and any advice to others on handling a difficult third stage labor? Our labor was incredibly long and intense due to medical induction methods and other hereditary factors. When she began to hemorrhage, I felt paralyzed. The person I love more than anything in this world was in danger. Time had stopped. There was a moment where I came to and realized I couldn’t express my fears or break down because she needed me to be strong. I prayed and focused on bonding with the baby. We focused on skin to skin and being in the first few moments with our daughter. This was a huge contributor to my wife being able to push through it. The hardest part of labor and birth for me was? After baby’s arrival, Elysa was hemorrhaging a great deal. I wanted to break down, but knew I had to keep it together. While her and the baby were having skin-to-skin contact, I was absolutely terrified I’d lose the most important person in my life. It is important to consider the risks involved in child bearing despite where you plan to have a child. The risks are real. Couples should know and recognize them and speak up if a danger sign presents and that is not just during postpartum, but in general. Your Birth Helper had a former client who almost lost her life after a miscarriage. She did not know she was pregnant when the bleeding began. Women need to also recognize the difference between a normal period and abnormal bleeding. Be informed, speak up and if needed, request another nurse. If you are home, and your provider fails to respond in a timely fashion, seek medical attention from urgent care, emergency room, etc. if you feel your provider is not responding appropriately to your concerns of blood loss,signs of infection, pain, etc. Elysa really managed the third stage exceptionally, I'd love to know what technique she found to help her relax the most during that time other than deep breath breathing and orange juice distraction? Elysa was able to stay calm and relaxed through third stage by focusing on the baby. After nearly three full days of labor and a whole bunch of doubt, she was amazed by the delivery of our beautiful baby girl. Focusing on the baby helped her ignore all the other noise around her. No matter how much time she was going to be able to have with the baby, she was going to soak in every last second. I believe this is what got her through. My team and I, can not say enough good things to say about this Warrior Woman and SuperMan Coach, who endured 68 hours of labor induction to give birth! Special thanks again to Tina Moreno, CNM, for her encouragement and support, the wonderful nurses Erin and Nancy who supported their birth plan through a variety of obstacles the entire journey and Dr. Fox for her medical expertise in third stage labor. Lastly..... WELCOME TO WAVERLY'S WORLD!!! #Drugfree #labordown #husbandcoached #firstbirth #pitocinsurvivor #epiduralfreeinduction #nitrousoxide #csectionavoided #PiedmontObgyn #symbioticbirth #MidwifeAssistedBirth #CharlotteDoulaDreamTeam #CharlotteBirthFamily #CharlotteDoula #Charlotte #DoulaApprentice #Doula

The challenges of our third pregnancy at times were weighing heavily upon me. By far, my biggest challenge, "it difficult to get in the mindset of birth again." The unknowns running through my mind, (who will watch our kids while I am in labor, how will I manage postpartum with a newborn and two active boys, Andrew's new job responsibilities, family visiting from out of state, etc.). Yet also full of surprise, as we would NOT reveal the gender (not even to ourselves) this time around. Second, I had worked very hard to control my gestational diabetes with diet and exercise during my last pregnancy and being able to pass the test and avoid it all together this time, was quite an accomplishment for me! And, of course, my mind, body or baby being stubborn (whichever kept spontaneous labor away) and undergoing unplanned induction created its own obstacles, however, having flexibility in my birth plans. Having the support of my husband (as coach), YBH doula assistance, the midwives of Piedmont OBGYN & staff of CMC Pineville made the perfect combination for accomplishing my third natural birth... Lisa Mitchell Many women find laboring on the toilet to be overly helpful and easier to release the correct muscles to allow the baby to move down with each contraction. Some women also find the position allows them to ease the urge of urinating at the peak of the contraction. Note: very important to empty your bladder at least once an hour! When Lisa and Andrew first considered a baby #3 she asked me what she would do if I was in Georgia. I laughed and replied, "What do you mean?" She said, "We don't want to labor and birth without you!" Now, those are words that make a Doula melt. When clients say, "We couldn't have done it (low intervention natural birth) without you"... I always reply, "Of course you could, you just wouldn't have had as much fun!" Adjectives Doula Nancy Cook, YBHD and I, used to describe Lisa... COMMITTED PERSISTENT STRONG PATIENT PREPARED PHYSICALLY & MENTALLY RELAXED MIND & BODY FOCUSED In modern depictions, a cornucopia is typically a horn shaped basket filled with various types of festive fruit and vegetables. Particularly in North America, we associate the cornucopia with the harvest and Thanksgiving. For Andrew and Lisa Mitchell, this year the cornucopia symbolized blessing overflowing. Ask any farmer and they will agree, the Harvest is always physically challenging, time consuming and tiresome. Labor to bring forth life is also. In fact, it is the most athletic event a woman will ever do. The bible references this overwhelming work in John 16:21. Often referred to as the labor of LOVE, the efforts to expel a child from the mother's body brings forth not just a baby at the end, but many emotions for all involved along the way. In this amazing birth journey , we experience: Great LOVE, powerful contractions, joy, tears, a few unresolved fears and a feeling of guilt (the necessity to have friends watch their other two children) to a void feeling of not be present to care for the other children, what if it is not a girl, etc.. Yes, Labor & Birth can bear fruits of all kinds of feelings for both MOM & DAD. Lets take a photo journey of the couple's labor. It began as an unexpected suggestion to medically induce during her prenatal appointment, due to mom's elevated blood pressure. They did not know what to do, because family was not yet in town to watch over their other two children. They begin by first tackling that hurdle and eventually ask friends if they would be so kind to watch their other two boys, Wes & Lucas so mom and dad could move forward with the induction. This is one of the greatest challenge of couples who do not have relatives nearby. When creating your birth plan, make sure you also consider such plans as who can be available last minute to oversee other children during labor. Don't wait till the last minute, plan ahead, stress of such matters can allow the mom's body to release adrenaline and the release of adrenaline will slow or stop labor. The laboring mom should also mentally prepared herself to be separated from the other children (unless educating siblings of what to expect if children are to be present during labor and birth). There is nothing wrong with children at birth, but you should know your children and whether they would serve to further cause tension. If considering having children at birth definitely make sure you have someone to accompany and oversee them. My best advise, early labor give them simple to do's rub mom's leg, etc., do hard labor/transition alone and then bring the kids in for the actual birth (as in last 1-2 pushes) by strategically placing them in the room where they do not have a birds eye view, but toward head of bed to witness birth and immediately bond. Then be prepared for them to go back out of room should mom should need any repair. Either way, Cover all your bases, remember, if the middle of the night, give your babysitter/family member overseeing kids an earlier heads up to properly wake up, dress, drive over, etc. Lisa's induction choice was to try to avoid pitocin (or at least save it to finish off the ball game) and attempt a less invasive attempt at spontaneous labor with an amniotomy (artificially breaking the bag of waters). This induction method was chosen by the couple after weighing the risks and benefits mostly, because she had endured pitocin last labor (her medical induction at 39 weeks due to her gestational diabetes) and she definitely found it to be more challenging than her first natural labor contractions. Also, to maintain her mobility and not have to endure continuous monitoring throughout. The induction began around 2pm. Shown below, Sarah Rumbaugh, RN attends to Lisa and baby. Your Birth Helper is happy to share nurse Sarah has completed her midwife training and will continue to serve couple's in the art of #SymbioticBirth, but soon in a new capacity. The world needs more supportive birth professionals like Sarah, supportive of natural birth ~ we are happy to share this exciting news! Sadly, spontaneous contractions did not follow the amniotomy. Lisa also tried to encourage contractions with use of breast pump, but unfortunately they just never settled into a working pattern. To avoid being completely exhausted burning up precious energy, they made a decision to resort to pitocin for progressing labor. With proper training, it is often very doable to still manage pitocin contractions without pain medication. Need more proof, Lisa has done it twice and so has many of our clients! The key is train with a team that teaches necessary skills to overcome hard labor and choose wisely your Doula Assistance. Don't be afraid to ask the Doula during consult, "What experience do you have assisting couples through obstacles to still birth naturally?" If you hire a Doula whose clients often end up with epidural or surgery, that may be a good indicator to choose another. If your goal is low intervention natural birth, choose wisely and be mindful who you pay your money to. Make sure you utilize a variety of positions, lying in bed is one of the worst things you can do to manage labor pain. Walking speeds labor by 27% and squatting opens the outlet of the pelvis another 10-15% than any other position. Save the bed for when the contractions are so close together it doesn't make sense to try to move between them or for sleepy hours to conserve energy or sleep in between contractions. Many hospitals and birth centers offer warm blankets, hot or cold packs & some even aromatherapy upon request. Also, don't forget to ask for a peanut ball, birth ball and squat bar. Then just when you think you can't possibly go on, its time to push... Mom rejoices at birth! It's a BOY! Stubborn Baby Joshua (clearly enjoying his womb service) arrived just shy of 11:05 p.m. on November 20th, 2018 Congrats again to The Mitchell family. It has been my utmost pleasure to have assisted the birth of all three of their adorable sons! Shown below: Wes, Lucas and baby Joshua! Special thanks again to Tina Moreno, CNM, Sarah Rumbaugh, RN and my own Nancy Cook, YBHD, RN for assisting with another very special #SymbioticBirth! Your Birth Helper currently serves Charlotte, NC and surrounding areas, as well as, Athens, Ga and all in between. We would love to help you plan and execute your happy "birth"day too!

When I first spoke to Erik and Emma over the phone, we had a lengthy telephone consultation in which they picked my brain on VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean) and the how to's of being successful. They wanted to explore other options than simply scheduling a repeat c-section. Her first labor she experienced early contractions, but a belly birth followed, because it was found her first baby was in a breech position at 34 weeks. Her doctors did not birth vaginal breech. Also, sadly, in her former practice, no discussion of efforts to try to alter or adjust baby's position medically with external version. She did try chiropractic Webster technique, but unfortunately, it was unsuccessful. The couple made a fabulous decision to enhance their knowledge in the natural process by attending a Your Birth Helper Labor Workshop. Our workshops are normally a group effort, but on this particular day, a baby decided to crash our plans. Once again, I was not able to meet the couple in person. Childbirth Educator, Sarah Neri, YBHCE, led the workshop in the team's absence. The couple quickly realized it was in their best interest to increase their knowledge for the challenges they would face to birth naturally with the odds against them. Shown below, the couple explores Labor Affirmation cards. They learned the importance of believing in her body and the natural process. In addition,to learning proven techniques to manage labor contractions, reduce pain levels, help adjust baby's position if needed, we trained up Erik to better support her during her labor of love. He was eager to help her execute once he understood the what, why and how to's of labor! VBAC candidates have the challenge of getting themselves into spontaneous labor by 41 weeks (induction is not typically an option) and VBAC's are subject to other routine interventions such as constant monitoring during active labor, which can also limit freedom of movement hindering progress. Therefore, we must be real creative at times assuming a variety of positions often, when all possible. Shown here, Emma works to completely open up, loosen hips and counteract contraction pain naturally by placing herself in a full squat (even in early labor at Amelie's French Bakery in Pineville, Nc after enjoying her dessert energy, of course!) as well as, in LDR after admitting. Labor began at 6:00 a.m. Monday, she worked all day at home. Emma and Erik also explored the level of support they were receiving at the OBGYN practice she had been seeking prenatal care and found VBAC support to be lacking. The couple made an excellent decision to increase their odds of VBAC success by transferring care. Since healthy and low risk, she would see the midwives. It was important to them to increase their odds of success by transferring to a practice that not only supports VBAC they encourage it, Piedmont OBGYN. Well most of them. The odds are still better than average there. And, those medical professionals who go above and beyond to support the natural process and low intervention birth and don't push their own way or opinions, are a breath of fresh air to labor & delivery! They also learned their choices and how to prioritize their choices into a printed birth plan, shown below: They made a fabulous decision to increase their birthing skills during more in depth training with Childbirth Educator, Sarah Neri, YBHCE to further empower themselves along their VBAC journey. They understood the challenge before them would be the equivalent of having a first baby in terms of overall length of labor and intensity of push phase. Shown here, Sara stops by for a visit during labor to check in on the couple. She was remarkably surprised by the level of total relaxation during contractions. It is good for Childbirth Educators to witness the proven techniques they teach and to further enhance future training sessions with real time feedback. As the creator of YBH training workshops, I am super proud of my team and their level of skill. Each YBH team member is also fully trained under me in The Bradley Method (r), which is still the very best most detailed natural birth training there is. Unfortunately, not every couple has access to a Bradley class and/or schedules may not allow for a twelve week series, but when possible couples should try to make birth training a priority. You can find classes at www.bradleybirth.com all across the U.S. and abroad. Our YBH training workshops, further enhance your birthing basics with more advance training, email: yourbirthhelper@gmail for upcoming YBH Labor Workshop opportunities in both Charlotte, Athens or anywhere in between. You may even find this amazing couple sharing their best tips and how to's at the next Charlotte workshop! We had the couple focused on good nutrition, daily regular exercise, physical prep of pregnancy muscle groups and practiced a variety of positions, in addition to, practicing labor contractions, practiced properly pushing a baby out and boy would that practice pay off big! Emma & Erick worked tirelessly to prep her body for labor. She and Erik did their baby evacuation homework, as well. All the rain and cold weather in Charlotte hindered her from long walks in the park, but she did all she could inside and as weather permitted. Emma shown here in late labor utilizing asymmetrical position using bed. Erik rubs her back and offers counter support during contractions. Emma remained "Namaste" throughout her many hours of labor. Dad was by her side every minute. Although, no doubt the couple could've remained home to labor much longer the catch 22 was their other child was there and therefore, they made the call to labor elsewhere so Emma could focus solely on this baby. It is terribly challenging to be completely relaxed during contractions when a toddler is in the room. However, the more you practice labor in front of your toddler and give them a small job such as rubbing mom's foot, etc. the better. You do not have to give full details just keep it simple. Mom is going to be working hard with her eyes closed to let the baby come out. It is important you do not yell or jump on mommy but be very gentle. They need to learn gentle touch anyway before you bring a baby home... teach them in advance what to do and what gentle means. Always better to be proactive than reactive. Around 36 weeks gestation, women are tested for group b strep bacteria in the vagina. This does not have to include an internal exam. You can request the group b swab only. If found to be positive, the recommendation is routine antibiotics during labor to protect baby from picking up the bacteria during birth. Emma was found to be positive. Shown below, Emma receives fluids and penicillin. We were fortunate enough the stars aligned for Emma and not only did she have her favorite midwife on call, she also had her favorite LDR nurse! Shown above, look who met them in triage upon arrival, our own Nancy Cook, BSN, YBHD, aka Natural Birth Champion of CMC Pineville! In Dad's words, here are some highlights of their labor: We both had peace of mind knowing that we had a great support team of doula's that could help when I didn't know the right thing to do or when the nurse had to leave the room. We were off to a great start, we had someone from our own Clt Doula Dream Team to welcome us in triage and Nancy Cook, was our first nurse! That was a huge BONUS! Shown here, Emma’s favorite relaxation tool- for TMJ massage!! Her father sent it to her from China. Super cool! I worked, along side my YBH Doula team, to support with my wife, changing positions often, while assisting her in physically relaxing during intense contractions. I have a new appreciation and love for my wife and the work she did to birth our baby naturally. Seeing Emma in such deep relaxation during hard labor was so inspiring that it kept me focused. Shown here after shift change, Nurse Erin now offers her support. After approximately 27 hours of labor, the midwife checked the cervix again and Emma was fully dilated. We were elated!! All the positions, relaxation techniques and labor dancing/ noises had paid off... now, time to labor down and wait for the overwhelming urge to push. We labored down in hands and knees over top of bed and even tried a few practice pushes standing up, as shown here. I felt like Emma was doing so well and it totally reassured me we were in the right place for such a life changing event! Pushing stage is real active work of mind and body, both need to be firm and focused. Having Erik by my side was crucial to my/our success! He made me feel anchored and comfortable, thus able to focus and do my work. Having a well prepared husband also elevated this unique bonding experience! Emma L. After, approximately 2+ hours of total second stage pushing, the head began to emerge! The body followed immediately after! I was overwhelmed with excitement and gloved up for the finale. The midwife said, "get ready" and reached for my hand and instructed me in assisting in birthing my own baby! I did it! I helped catch my second baby!!! Shown here Erik gently places their newborn baby on mom’s chest! It's A GIRL! Baby arrive at 10:58 a.m. Tuesday. Shown above, Mom gets a well deserved kiss from Dad for 29 hours of drug free labor/birth as baby lies skin to skin for warmth. Emma birthed the placenta with ease and then focused on baby as the staff began pitocin to slow her bleeding. Shown below, the tree of life! The awesome organ grown along with baby to transport blood, oxygen, nutrients & waste to and from baby. Emma requested delayed cord clamping and the midwife had me feel to confirm the cord no longer contained a pulse. The blood transfer to baby was complete and time for me to cut the umbilical cord. Everyone did a fabulous job supporting our birthing goals! We could not have been happier with our choice to transfer care to Piedmont OBGYN and CMC Pineville for our low intervention Vaginal Birth After Cesarean! My wife and I, accomplished a DRUG FREE Natural Birth! It was a very happy "Birth"day indeed! The "Birth"day party commences...special thanks to the ongoing support of low intervention #SymbioticBirth to these amazing gals! Your Birth Helper is happy to publicly acknowledge Nurse Nancy, Nurse Erin,& Nurse Lauren for such awesome support of the couple's birth plan and their efforts to execute a natural birth. We can't say enough wonderful things about Midwife Tina Moreno, for always speaking positive energy into the room, encouraging couples along their birth journey (not just supporting their birth plan) and allowing Erik to help catch! You girls added to the peaceful atmosphere and no doubt future couples can only hope to have this level of support for their labor and birth. Your continued support and encouragement does not go unnoticed. Thank you ALL from the bottom of our hearts! Welcome to the World this 7lb. beautiful Baby Nova, no doubt you are LOVED! Your Mom & Dad gave you the very best and safest right of passage into Life! Congrats again to this awesome Family! As Your Birth Helper clients, you begin as students, but you end as Family... #BirthFamily, #CharlotteBirthFamily!!!!! #csectionavoided #husbandcoached #secondbirth #Drugfree #CharlotteDoulaDreamTeam #EpiduralfreeBirth #NaturalInduction #naturalbirth #MidwifeAssistedBirth #CMCPineville #MidwifeAssistedHospitalBirth #CharlotteDoula #Doula #DoulaAssistedBirth #DoulaAssistance #YourBirthHelperLaborWorkshop #YourBirthHelperTrained #YourBirthHelper #SymbioticBirth #VBAC #birth