At Balanced Birth Support, our doulas walk alongside families through every stage of pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. While our goal is always to nurture confidence and calm, we also believe in providing clear, evidence-based education — so that you can feel empowered, not alarmed. Today, we’re talking about postpartum hemorrhage — what it is, why it can happen, and when to reach out for help. What Is Postpartum Hemorrhage? Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) means excessive bleeding after childbirth — usually …
Perineal Massage For Labor Prep
*This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your healthcare provider before beginning any new practices during pregnancy, including perineal massage. Every pregnancy is unique, and what works for one person may not be appropriate for another. Perineal massage is a simple technique that can help reduce the likelihood of tearing or the need for an episiotomy during vaginal birth. It involves gently …
Nitrous Oxide For Labor Now Offered At Fairfax
Exploring Nitrous Oxide at Inova Fairfax Hospital *Learn more about nitrous in our online self paced childbirth course!* One increasingly popular choice for pain management in labor is nitrous oxide, a safe and effective option for laboring individuals. Nitrous oxide offers flexibility, control, and support during childbirth, making it a valuable tool for those seeking a more tailored labor experience. INOVA Fairfax Women’s Center is now offering Nitrous Oxide for pain relief during labor and birth! At Balanced Birth Support, …
Cesarean Awareness Month
Shedding Light on Cesarean Awareness Month: Understanding, Preparation, and Support In the realm of childbirth, Cesarean sections (C-sections) represent a significant aspect of modern obstetrics. Each April, Cesarean Awareness Month offers an opportunity to delve into the complexities, challenges, and crucial considerations surrounding this way of childbirth. From understanding why cesareans are performed to offering support and guidance for those undergoing or recovering from one, this month serves as a beacon for education, empowerment, and awareness. Why Cesarean Awareness Month? …
Preparing for your prenatal visit with your birth doula
When and where do we meet?Your visit should be scheduled around your 36/37th week in pregnancy. Typically, your doula will come to your home however, if you feel more comfortable meeting somewhere else or virtually this can be arranged. Budget around 1-2 hours at your prenatal appointment.What will we discuss?What happens after the prenatal visit?During the prenatal visit, most clients utilize the time to discuss their birth preferences, delve into their options, and address any anxieties or fears that may be …
Birth & Postpartum Traditions for Hispanic Families| Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month!
Dear Balanced Birth Support Community, As we embrace Hispanic Heritage Month, we are excited to celebrate the rich cultural tapestry that defines our diverse community. At Balanced Birth Support, we take pride in supporting families from all backgrounds during their journey through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. This month, we’re highlighting the traditions and practices that have been passed down through generations, helping families thrive during this special time.La Cuarentena: In many Hispanic cultures, the postpartum period, known as “La Cuarentena,” …
Mindfulness for pregnancy and new parents
Congratulations on your pregnancy and parenthood journey! As you embark on this transformative time, practicing mindfulness can greatly enhance your experience. Here are five valuable tips from Miranda, yoga teacher and birth doula, on mindfulness tailored to pregnancy and new parents… 1. Embrace the Present Moment: Pregnancy and early parenthood can be overwhelming, with thoughts constantly focused on the past or future. Mindfulness encourages you to fully embrace the present moment. Take time each day to tune into your body, …
LGBTQIA+ Birth and Medicine Pioneers
The fields of childbirth and medicine have seen remarkable advancements over the years, thanks to the relentless efforts of individuals who have dedicated their lives to improving healthcare practices. Among these pioneers are members of the LGBTQIA+ community, who have played significant roles in revolutionizing the way we understand and approach childbirth and medicine. In this blog post, we celebrate the contributions of LGBTQIA individuals who have not only made groundbreaking discoveries but have also shattered barriers and advocated for …
Breech Baby? Now what? Ways to help turn a breech baby!
As your due date approaches, you may find yourself in a position where your baby is in a breech presentation, meaning their head is not pointing downward toward the birth canal. While many breech babies eventually turn on their own, there are some techniques you can try to encourage the baby to assume the optimal head-down position. Forward-Leaning Inversion: The forward-leaning inversion technique involves positioning your upper body lower than your pelvis to encourage the baby to shift. You can …