remarkable photographs

2012 IAPBP Image of the Year Competition - some truly amazing photos!

Mama/Baby BLISS

postpartum visits warm my heart!

Jackie and Matt are one of the warmest couples I have ever met. I imagine they are just one of those couples that everyone just loves because they're love for each other and for their children is so apparent and contagious! So when I was invited to the birth of their second child, I was thrilled.

The story of their birth of daughter Claudia was positive and they seemed very happy with how it all unfolded. Jackie's plans were pretty simple for this delivery. She wanted a natural, unmedicated, supported birth. We met a few times to discuss the "logistics" and practiced some imagery exercises for the pregnancy and upcoming birth. It was quite nice to see how confident Jackie was feeling about her body and her inner strength to get through another birth completely naturally.

March 22nd was the day I got the call from Jackie. She had been contracting quite a bit but wasn't feeling the intensity yet. She happened to have an appointment with the midwives that day and they determined she was 4-5 cms dilated. So they midwife sent her to the hospital being that this was her 2nd baby - it could be quick! So I met Jackie and Matt a few hours later at the hospital. We did some visualizations, some hula-dancing, some of this, some of that. But, contractions seemed to peter out and not much was happening - baby wasn't ready! Jackie and Matt were disappointed but decided it would be good to go home and rest while they had the chance. We all went home and got some sleep (I slept, I'm not so sure about the excited parents!)

The next morning, I heard from Jackie around 6am. Sure enough the contractions had intensified and she knew "this was it." so I met the soon-to-be parents of 2 at the hospital. Jackie was visibly in real active labor at this point. She was managing the contractions incredibly -- breathing through each one with her eyes closed, very focused. Matt and I applied a lot of counter pressure and hip-press action along with some massage. Jackie was so strong. Any nurse who walked in couldn't believe she was in active labor because she was so calm and collected. By 10am, she was ready to have her baby. We all "geared up" and helped Jackie into a comfortable pushing position. She pushed only a couple of times before she and Matt met their beautiful, healthy 9 pound baby boy -- Matthew Jr. How perfect it was. Jackie and Matt were overjoyed as they stared into the eyes of their boy and one another. It was a truly blissful experience.

There are 3 Reasons for Breastfeeding...

"There are three reasons for breastfeeding: The milk is always at the right temperature; it comes in attractive contrainers; and the cat can't get it." -Irena Chalmers

The ad above is from Australia and presents a perfect example of how other countries promote BREASTFEEDING as opposed to FORMULA-FEEDING. If this ad was displayed in public places in America, there is no doubt in my mind that we'd have people who'd feel discusted and upset. In other countries, where breastfeeding is the norm, this ad would most likely be posted without arguement and shame. Hopefully as we progress, more people will see that breastfeeding is a beautiful, natural part of life and society as whole will become more comfortable with it.

"Nothing else in the world..."

By Danielle H.

My son was 21 Months old (Natural Hospital birth) and we were planning on a Home birth from day one of pregnancy #2 and so excited for the experience. I had everything ready for the birth for weeks since I had Braxton hicks so bad that I was convinced I would have my daughter early (Never count on having a baby early or on time even when your other children were early). 5 days over due On September 4th 2008 at 10:30 pm, my little Noah was sound asleep and My husband and I were watching television and just winding down for the night when I felt at cramp. I got so excited and I just knew it was time but not more excited then Adam, He was ready to call everyone! After telling him to relax and that I was not sure another one came. My contractions STARTED 4 Minutes apart. As Adam called my midwife and Mother (who has had 4 home births) I went onto my bed to wait for everyone to arrive.

My Mother, Father and sister came first at 11:00. My Mom asked me questions and was wondering how far apart my contractions were and she could tell without my answer that they were close enough where there would be no communicating on my part. My Dad got settled in my living room thinking he would spend the night and wake up to a granddaughter as my sister rubbed my feet to try to get my mind off the pain. My midwife arrived at 11:20 very surprised at my progress. The nurse started my tub with warm water and by 11:30 I had made my way only by the grace of God into that warm tub. Many of my contraction wound together never giving me a break at that ripping pain. My midwife not once checked to see how far I was dilated but knew somehow in her experience by watching my expressions that it would not be long. As I came up from taking a refreshing sip from a Gatorade (very recommended during labor) I asked how much longer because I knew I couldn't keep this up for long. My midwife's response was "You are very close to seeing your daughter". In hearing that I got a second wind and felt the pressure as my water broke. A different type of pain started and it was all pressure and I knew then that I was almost done. I started wanting to push at 11:45 and knowing that it is very crucial to pay attention your body during the pushing stage so you don't tear I slowly pushed out the head. It was so wonderful to see her and know that I was that much closer to meeting our new edition. I finally gave one last push as my daughter slid out and Adam caught her only to lie her on my chest feeling as if it were an Olympic trophy I had Won. Grace Lanee' was born at 11:57 and we finally got to meet our little girl. I walked to bed after 5 minutes and got settled in as comfortable as I could. She weighed in at 8 Lbs 8 Oz and 19 Inches long. Grace nursed after 10 minutes acting like it was what she was born to do. As the midwife and nurses did laundry, cleaned my tub, picked up their stuff and did paper work Noah had woke from his slumber to join in on greeting his new sister. After pictures and kisses everyone seemed to make there way to the door and into their own beds. Adam, Noah, Grace and I had just our family and nothing else in the world to worry about at that moment. It was the sweetest moment to fall asleep in my own bed next to my husband and know that I just birthed my healthy happy daughter and had a lifetime to cherish with her. My Birth ended up being an hour and a half and that included the 13 minute pushing stage.

Does birth change us?

I am really lucky to be living with my wonderful mother for many reasons. One reason is because we've had the chance to sit around and talk about all sorts of issues and topics, including birth. She is my biggest cheerleader when it comes to my doulaing and I love that I can talk to her and tell her just about everything! She always listens, supports and gives me great feedback.

Birth has been an ongoing discussion of ours since I moved home in January 2009 and started working on learning everything I can about birth. One of the best things I've learned are the details of my own birth, and those of my sister and brothers. I feel so lucky to have heard all about my mom's experience because I think it is an important talk to have, one that many women do not have with their mothers.

So recently my mom and I were reflecting on our birth dicussions and realized how we most likely never would have had these in depth conversations if I hadn't become a doula and learned about birth the way that I have. This is when we realized: why don't we have these discussions more? Why is birth not talked about more amongst women??

Sex, pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, and mothering are all things we MUST discuss in order to feel comfortable with the fact that they are all an extremely important part of human nature. We cannot deny that our experiences during sex, pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and mothering change us as women.

My mom has pointed out that these intense discussions have also made her realize how much her pregnancies and births changed her as a woman and person. She said that after she had my sister (her first baby), a friend came up to her and said "something about you has changed since you had a baby..." and now she knows more specifically what that change was. She has explained how empowering pregnancy and childbirth were for her. She was ready to be a mother when she got pregnant and therefore accepted her pregnancy as a blessing from a higher power. She cherished her growing fetus and even kept a detailed journal of the entire pregnancy. My mom said that she didn't even need to do research or much thinking to decide that she wanted a natural, un-medicated birth. "Why wouldn't I want to do it naturally?" is how is she explains her thinking. I am fascintated by her strength. She had a wonderful pregnancy, birth and experience breastfeeding. That was the beginning of her new life as a mother. It's beautiful! She, a 25 year old woman, could find her natural mothering instincts and make the best of them. I feel blessed to have a mother who has cared to share her experiences with me. Hearing her stories give me strength and hope that we can all take advantage of the extraordinary gift we are given - to give life!

If you can, talk to your mother about her experiences as a woman. If you can't, talk to other women.

chilling with my 6 month old friend

Seeing a baby being born is an amazing gift. When I have the opportunity to see them grow, I am filled with joy and amazement. Mom, Mary, has been so great about keeping in touch with me and has given me the chance to become her friend and we've gotten together several times since Ben's birth. I feel a special bond with Mary and Ben and am glad to be a part of their life and want them to know how special they are to me!

Postpartum visit with Catherine and Theresa

The first time I met Catherine, she asked me I was Italian. I told her yes and we joked about having an Italian feast after her birth where we would watch her birth video (originally she wanted me to film it but the hospitals said absolutely not). So before I went to the postpartum visit with Catherine, I made her some baked ziti. She was thrilled. She, her friend who was over, and their daughters even tried it while I was there.


We had a nice time, chatting about this and that and reminiscing about her birth experience a few weeks back. Baby Theresa was in my arms the entire time and I even got to give her a bottle! It was nice to see mom and baby doing so well. We said our goodbyes and promised to keep in touch for years to come!

5 babies!

Birth Stories
by M.B.

My first pregnancy with JM went really well - I gained 45 pounds and I loved being pregnant! I was young and 3,000 miles away from my family, so I didn't get much guidance. The pregnancy was uneventful- I was happy and healthy. Unfortunately, my father in law died very suddenly when I was 8 mos. pregnant. We hadn't gone through any Lamaze yet and never did - so when my water broke a month later, (on Super Bowl Sunday) I was not prepared. I thought I could handle it but I was desperate for an epidural. Unfortunately, they gave it to me when I was 8 cm. and just beginning transition so it really made it difficult to push. I ended up pushing for 2 1/2 hrs. and was given an episiotomy from hole to hole! There was a mirror available so I got to watch the whole birth. It was amazing! JM weighed 8lbs. 1oz. The recovery was slow because of the many stitches and nursing was quite challenging, but overall it was a good experience.

My second pregnancy was just as good if not, better, because I knew what to expect and I was much more aware of my body. I truly loved being pregnant! The only issue that bothered me was pain at the tip of my pelvis. It felt like a constant bruising - I found out it was caused by friction where the pelvis bones meet. They separate briefly in order for the baby to pass through. I was trying to be more active during this pregnancy, but with activity, came the pelvic pain. Ann was born in a naval hospital about 40 minutes away so I was nervous about getting there in time. My experience at the naval hospital was quite different from the first hospital. First of all, I had a male nurse. I have to say, he was fabulous! He was very supportive and caring. Unfortunately, I was not in a private room so I was a bit self conscious during and after labor. I didn't have any drugs. I felt very much in control during labor. I only pushed for about half an hour and no episiotomy! Ann weighed 8 lbs. The down side to being in this facility was that I had to walk down and get my baby in the nursery when I wanted to nurse. She did not sleep with me in the ward. I even had a group of corpsman (navy medics) observe while the doctor put a catheter in me because I had trouble urinating! There is no such thing as humility during childbirth. Ann was a very healthy, alert baby who loved to nurse!

Pregnancy number three - again, I loved being pregnant! It was a little more challenging having two little ones to take care of but overall, I felt great. I remember rollerblading while pushing Ann in the stroller as I took JM to preschool. I had lots of energy and felt really good for the duration of the pregnancy. I was very nervous towards the end about leaving the other two children when I went to the hospital. I ended up being 11 days past my due date (middle of July in Southern California!) I had a neighbor who was signed up to watch them when it was time to go, but she was not available at the time of delivery. So, I had to take them to a day care center where no one knew them. I was sobbing as we dropped them off! I delivered at a private hospital but unfortunately, my doctor was not available to deliver my baby. His partner (I met once) delivered John without a hitch. Again, I had no meds and the pushing was bearable - no episiotomy either. John weighed 7lbs 15oz. I learned later that I burst quite a few blood vessels in my face and neck during pushing - it looked like I had the measles! My skin eventually returned to normal. John was a healthy, very calm baby. Another good nurser! One thing that got more painful after each pregnancy was when the uterus would contract to get back to its original size. Each time I nursed it would trigger the uterus to contract......It felt like labor all over again! My mother had warned me of this (she had 8 kids)! I literally had to breathe through the pain, so nursing was not always fun.

My fourth pregnancy was also uneventful......I felt good most of the time aside from the bruising pelvic pain. I really took care of myself, was active and busy with the other children. On the day of a scheduled appointment at the end of my pregnancy, I began labor very early in the morning. We waited to see the doctor for appt. and when seen, he informed me I was already 6 centimeters. We quickly walked over to the adjoining hospital. I was settled in minutes, and ended up pushing very briefly before my doctor barely made it in to deliver my daughter, Emily. She weighed 7lbs. 14oz. She was an enthusiastic nurser and sweet as can be! Again, the afterbirth contractions were quite painful but temporary. I geared up for life at home with 4 children under the age of 5........I didn't want to leave the hospital!

After a divorce and remarriage, I wanted to have another child with my new husband. I had a tubal ligation after my last baby, so I went back in for a tubal reversal. After a 4 hour operation, there was a 60% chance that I'd get pregnant. Well, they didn't call me "Fertile Myrtle" for nothing......I conceived right away but suffered a miscarriage. Thankfully, my next pregnancy was successful. I was 38 and felt a difference physically with this pregnancy but I was very healthy. I had taken up yoga prior to getting pregnant and continued all through the pregnancy. I was very active and really took care of myself. I felt great most of the time. When labor began I continued to go about my business, carpooling, helping with homework etc. I labored all though the night, put the kids on the bus and went to the hospital around 8:00 a.m. We walked the halls of Labor & Delivery, pausing for contractions, I rocked in a chair for a while too (that was soothing). I eventually asked for something for the pain but I can't remember if they even gave me anything. I pushed for about 1/2 an hour. I thought I was in good shape but the pushing took a lot out of me - I was exhausted in the end. Hope was my biggest baby at 9lbs. 2 oz. No episiotomy - I was thrilled! I bounced back pretty well - although I did suffer from postpartum depression for about 6 months. It was tough. She was a very stubborn nurser, I was very frustrated having to pump often - she only nursed for 3 weeks.

......And life goes on. My oldest daughter, Ann married in October and is now expecting! She is an extremely nurturing woman with a wealth of information. The thought of watching my daughter become a mother warms my heart!

Postpartum visit with Loretta, Damien and Baby Raheem

Baby Raheem was doing beautifully when I saw him at our postpartum visit. He looks so different from the last time I saw him, a couple of weeks ago on his birthday. Mom, Loretta, is doing well and said she is busy with baby and looking forward to her trip to Jamaica for the summer. The family seems to be adjusting to life with baby and happy that their son is healthy and home after a 7 day stay in the hospital. I was delighted to meet with them. Mom let me hold little Raheem, which is always fun.

Birth #4

Theresa’s Birth
May 4, 2008
4:16 p.m.
7 pounds, 11 ounces

Theresa's birth was quick. The labor, however, was a different story. Catherine went into labor around 2am on Monday, May 4th. She called me, complaining of back pains. She didn't know what it was because with her previous two labors, her water had broken, and that was her queue to go to the hospital, the baby was on its way. This time, things started differently. When her back pain became unbearable, Catherine decided to go to the hospital. When I arrived, she was strolling the halls to manage her pain, which she was doing very well. I could tell that the contraction feeling was kicking in and she was definitely in labor. We went into her labor room to get settled. Catherine was visibly uncomfortable so I reminded her to focus on her breath, to keep it present and deep. Her partner, Ron, was very supportive and kept the room vibe in the room positive and fun, at least for me. He was cracking jokes, or perhaps just being himself. Either way, he was quite a character. Catherine chimed right on in. Their sense of humor seemed to help pass the time. Catherine’s initial thought was that this labor would be similar to her two previous labors, short and manageable. But, she dilated slowly, she thought. We tried many different positions and pain management resources including the use of a rebozo, massage, and rythmic breathing. Catherine's doctors decided to start her on pitocin after about 7 hours of labor and slow dilation. Her body responded well and her contractions came more frequent and regular. Prior to the pitocin, she received a small dose of morphine. Things were progressing as we continued to change her position and activity every hour or so. By 3:00, Catherine felt she was ready to push. The doctors encouraged her to wait until she felt a really strong urge because they knew it would be a quick second stage if she waited, being that it was her third baby. And that it was, Catherine pushed mightily 3 times and born was her baby, Theresa. It was so fast that the doctors didn't even have time to get the birth kit ready. I am pretty sure the doctors had never seen someone push quite like Catherine, she was a pro! Ron cheered Catherine on from behind the curtain, while Auntie Vai and I did so by her side. Everyone but Catherine was surprised when she pushed her baby out so quickly. Once she started, she couldn't stop. Theresa was born 7 pounds, 11 ounces, at 4:16 p.m. on May 4, 2008. What Catherine thought would be a short labor and delivery turned into a long labor, for her, and a very short delivery. She remained in good spirits through the entire journey, staying positive even when she felt impatient and frustrated. Baby Theresa was born perfectly healthy, bringing Mom and Dad smiles of bliss. It was an adventurous day, one that was filled with patience and perseverance and ended in a bundle joy.

Raheem's Birth

Raheem’s Birth
May 3, 2009
10:59am
7 pounds, 0 ounces

When I met with Loretta for the first time, I was very fond of her. She was a sweet Jamaican woman, pregnant with her first baby, and a little bit nervous about her upcoming labor and delivery. I assured her that we would labor at home for as long as possible, hoping that would progress her labor some before we arrived at the hospital. But, you can never be sure about the plan of action until the day actually comes. Loretta’s labor started a few days after her due date but seemed to keep slowing down and stalling over the course of about 3 days. And than, early Sunday morning, at about 3:30 a.m. she called me to say that they were going to the hospital because her contractions had picked up quite a bit. I was happy and excited and on my way. When I arrived, I was surprised when the nurse at the Labor and Delivery check in desk told me to wait in the waiting area until Loretta was out of the triage room. Okay, fine, I thought, at least she has her partner, Damien, with her. A few minutes later, Damien comes strolling off the elevator. Now I was a little confused and upset that Loretta was by herself. Damien went to the L&D desk and asked if he could go back there to be with Loretta. The same nurse replied, with the same answer. We waited patiently for a few minutes which turned into an hour. Finally, we were allowed to go see Loretta. She looked a little scared and was hooked up to monitors, IVs and an oxygen mask already. The doctor explained that there had been some meconium in her water when they were broken so they had to keep a close eye on her and her baby. We got settled and figured out ways to work with the machines to help her get through her contractions. She did an amazing job, breathing through each one, and taking them one at a time. Hours passed and she was slowly but surely dilating. Dr. Josephs was very supportive and allowed her to stand up, in hopes of making Loretta as comfortable as possible. By 9:00 a.m., Loretta was beginning to feel very uncomfortable so she decided to request an epidural. There was an emergency in the hospital so the anesthesiologist was unavailable. Loretta managed her pain beautifully, and I was very impressed with her goddess-like strength. Damien and I worked together to provide emotional support for Loretta as she progressed. Soon she reached 10 centimeters but still wanted an epidural. Dr. Josephs said that it might be a good idea because she would probably be pushing for a while.

When the head doctor came in to check to see if she would be a good candidate for an epidural at this point, she announced that Loretta would need to deliver her baby via C-section. We were all a bit shocked because there was no mention of this possibility up until this point. They explained that there were a few different factors stacked up against her, and did not think the baby would handle the pushing stage very well. I could tell Loretta was confused. All of that, for a C-section? I tried to reassure her, telling her she did well and the best she could. Damien seemed a little bit sad but realized that his baby’s health might be in jeopardy if he was not delivered soon. The next couple of hours were slow, as I waited for Loretta and Damien to come out of the operating room. Baby Raheem was born at 10:59 on Sunday, May 3rd. He was 7 pounds. I was able to see Loretta in recovery after her surgery. She seemed tired but happy that her baby was here. I gave her my best, and left, as she needed to rest up. Raheem was in the NICU, being monitored. I got the chance to go with Dad to visit him, which was very exciting and is usually not allowed in this hospital. I was grateful. He looked beautiful. It was a long journey but Mom, Dad and baby seemed to be happy, and healthy. I was happy and proud of Loretta for all of her hard work.

Rebozo in action!

This shot was taken when I was using my newly purchased rebozo at my 4th and most recent birth. I love it! Thanks girl.

Postpartum visit with Mary, Tom and Baby Ben

Only a few hours after my 3rd birth, I had the chance to go visit the new mommy from my 2nd birth, Mary, her hubby, Tom and their little baby boy, Ben. I was extremely tired but had been excited to see this family so I went. The visit was wonderful. We caught up and also had a long chat about all of our memories of her birth (see Hearth Strength). It was really fun to see the family after they had a few weeks to adjust to their new life. Baby Ben is just adorable and seems like a content little guy.

Mom shared that she had positive memories of her birth, which was music to my ears. As her doula, it was nice to hear her speak of her birth experience in this way. We definitely bonded before her birth, but even more so during and after. I was so lucky to work with such a great couple who I hope to keep in touch with for many years to come.

Welcome little baby!

A beautiful baby girl was born on Monday, May 4th at 4:16pm after her mother labored with confidence and efficiency for 14 hours. It was an adventurous day, to say the least. Daddy stayed close by, lending a soothing hand when it was needed. This couple kept the energy flowing the entire day, cracking jokes, chitchatting, and watching entertaining TV shows. The baby was born in perfect condition after only a few strong and hard pushes from her mommy. Congratulations Mama!

Laboring Positions

Standing with foot resting on something sturdy is a good position for opening up your hips and pelvis. You can sway back and forth or just rest with your leg raised and bent.


Sitting on the ball with pillows on a chair, couch or bed to lean on is a very comfortable position and allows the hips to stay open and wide.



Leaning against the ball on a wall or chair can provide a gentle pressure massage against your back. If you are having trouble balancing, try leaning forward on your partner or doula for support.


The ball provides support so leaning on it while resting in childs pose can be quite nice. Ask your partner to rub your back.




Just resting on the ball is always a great position for laboring. If you would like, ask someone to massage your back or to just stand behind you for comfort, it's a great way to stay relaxed.










Slow dancing or just standing and leaning while swaying is a good way to stay in a supported stance for labor. This will gravity to help bring your baby down.





Squatting with the help of a partner can be a comfortable and effective position.






Leaning with your back against a partner can help you into a slight squat. If your partner feels its comfortable to have his or her back against the wall, that might help keep both of you in this position for longer if it is working.




Simply relaxing by sitting backwards on a chair is nice for labor.







Pressure on your lower back while in labor can relieve back pains and pressure.

Triplets!!

My cousin and her husband had triplets - 3 boys!! Now they have 5 kids under the age of 3! I am so happy to share these adorable pictures of the triplets, who are now around 6 months old. I am hoping to share her birth story one of these days but as you can imagine, she is quite busy.