I am really loving getting to know the Balanced Birth Support doulas! I continue to be in awe of their dedication not only to the birthing families that they work with, but also to their own families, community and the world around them. Stephanie Capps is one of our North Carolina team members, providing doula and photography services to the families of Raleigh and the surrounding areas. As the mother of two young children, she left behind the corporate world …
Breastfeeding Resources & Where To Find Local Support
If you are planning to breastfeed, it’s important to have good, solid resources available to you both before and after the baby is born. Breastfeeding is natural, but it doesn’t always come naturally and support is essential if you want to achieve your goals, no matter what those goals are. I’ve listed several go-to resources below; check them out before you go into labor so you know what to expect in breastfeeding from the moment your baby is born. Books*Links …
Birthing at Washington Hospital Center
SummaryWashington Medstar Hospital is a nationally recognized research hospital and according to their website the “Women’s and Infants’ Services is dedicated to advancing health care through ongoing participation in the latest research on female health issues.” They offer many pregnancy and parenting related classes. In addition to providing routine care for uncomplicated pregnancies, Washington Hospital Center has several departments focusing on high-risk pregnancies, care for pregnant moms and babies with congenital health problems, specialized testing, teen pregnancy, cancer screening and …
My 5 Favorite Meals To Bring To A Family With A New Baby
When I had my babies, one of the absolute best and most wonderful things our friends and family did for us was provide us with food. Their generosity was so appreciated and we didn’t have to worry about going grocery shopping, cooking or even cleaning up. Because I know how helpful this was for us, I LOVE bringing food to my friends and family with new babies. As an added bonus, I get to meet the new little one! I’ve …
How To Alleviate Common Pregnancy Complaints (Without Medication)
There are many unpleasant side effects that occur during pregnancy or are aggravated by being pregnant. Constipation, anxiety, insomnia, headaches, morning sickness, heartburn and indigestion, are normal and common ailments that have over the counter remdemies that are safe for pregnancy, but many woman would prefer for a more natural approach. Many ailments can be lessened or alleviated completely by reliving stress, getting enough sleep, eating healthy foods, being active, and drinking enough water. If you are suffering from a cold, …
Meet Sara Krisfalusi! Birth Doula
I continue to be amazed at the passion, drive, and love of the members of our Balanced Birth Support community. As the administrative manager I rarely have the opportunity to work with these amazing women, so I am thrilled to be able to sit down with them to get to know them better. Next up, Sara Krisalusi, a birth doula who has been with Balanced Birth Support since 2017 Sara’s passion for birth is obvious in speaking with her or …
Free Printable Birth Affirmations
The mind is a powerful thing! Sometimes when we are fearful and anxious, repeating a calming and relaxing mantra can help work through the feelings and keep your mind (and body!) present. Affirmations also can give a sense of control as well as remind you that you are strong and capable! Mantras and affirmations are also essential for helping a birthing family navigate unexpected challenges. Enjoy our free, printable affirmations here… Free Printable Affirmations for Childbirth! Click To Download!
Meet Avele! Birth Doula
While I know for certain all of the birth doulas with Balanced Birth Support are amazing, I have to admit that I am a bit biased about Avele. She was my doula for my second birth and she is incredibly thoughtful, caring, non-judgemental, and incredibly compassionate. Also, she must be a fast and/or crazy driver because she was able to get from Northern Virginia to GW hospital in less than 30 minutes during rush hour making it in time to …
Meet Alicia! Birth & Postpartum Doula
At Balanced Birth Support, we are honored to work with such a talented, caring, and supportive group of birth & postpartum doulas, childbirth educators, lactation consultants, and placenta specialists. Every single one of the members of Balanced Birth Support bring a unique life experience to the amazing and wondrous work that they do to support expectant families. In the first installment of a series dedicated to profiling members of Balanced Birth Support, I have spoken with Alicia Bennett, a birth …
Typical Newborn Screenings and Procedures: What, How, When
Whether you give birth in a hospital, birth center, or at home, there are many different newborn screenings, shots, and other procedures that will be offered to you or at least discussed with your care providers sometime prior to giving birth. Some tests are used to determine how well your baby is adjusting to the world outside your womb or screen for potential health problems; others are preventative against immediate or future health problems. Depending on where you live, some …