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 …

Group B Strep in Pregnancy | What does it mean?

One aspect of prenatal care is the Group B Streptococcus (GBS) test—a routine screening performed in the later stages of pregnancy. While it may sound intimidating, understanding GBS and its implications can empower you to make informed decisions for a safe and healthy delivery. What is the GBS Test and Why is it Important? The GBS test is a simple swab test performed around weeks 35 to 37 of pregnancy to check for the presence of Group B Streptococcus bacteria. …

Spinning Babies… What is it and how does it help?

While our bodies intuitively know how to birth, sometimes our babies need a little help finding their way into the optimal position for a smoother and more efficient birth. That’s where the concept of “Spinning Babies” comes in—an approach that encourages optimal fetal positioning through simple techniques and exercises. Understanding Optimal Fetal Positioning: Optimal fetal positioning refers to the ideal alignment of your baby’s head and body within your pelvis, promoting a more straightforward passage through the birth canal. It …

What are Braxton Hicks and How to Alleviate Them

As you approach the later stages of your pregnancy, you might encounter Braxton Hicks contractions. These practice contractions can catch you off guard, leaving you wondering if labor is around the corner. First, if you ever think you are in labor and are concerned please reach out to your healthcare provider. Here we will look at some practical tips to help you alleviate discomfort and embrace these “practice waves” with confidence. Relaxation Techniques: Imagine Braxton Hicks contractions as gentle waves …

Birthing at Holy Cross Germantown Hospital Maryland

SummaryApproximately 160 obstetricians are credentialed to deliver your baby at Holy Cross Germantown Hospital. They deliver approximately 10,000 babies each year at our hospitals and are focused entirely on helping mothers have a healthy pregnancy and birth. Holy Cross Hospital delivers more babies and cares for more newborns with complex medical issues than any other hospital in Maryland or the District of Columbia. Their website is full of helpful information. They boast about their care for high risk pregnancies, births and …

Birthing at Wakemed Cary Birthing Pavillion

SummaryWakeMed Hospital takes pride in its commitment to providing comprehensive care throughout the birthing journey. From prenatal care to postnatal support, their team of highly skilled healthcare professionals is dedicated to ensuring the health and well-being of both the parent and the baby. The hospital offers a range of specialized services, including high-risk pregnancy care, neonatal intensive care, and lactation support, catering to diverse needs with expertise and compassion. LocationWakemed Cary Hospital is located is located at 1900 Kildaire Farm …

How to Alleviate Nausea During Pregnancy

**If you are experiencing severe unstoppable nausea, be sure to reach out to your healthcare provider. There may be a possibility that you are experiencing Hyperemesis Gravidarum and would benefit from medical support.** Pregnancy is a journey filled with joy and anticipation, but for many people it can also bring along a less pleasant companion: nausea. Nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, commonly known as morning sickness, affect a significant number of expectant people. In this blog, we explore the causes …

Explaining the Bishop Score For Labor Preparation

Bishop Score for induction decisions

As expectant parents approach their due dates, healthcare providers often assess their readiness for labor. One tool commonly used for this assessment is the Bishop Score. Developed by Dr. Edward Bishop in the 1960s, the Bishop Score helps determine the likelihood of a successful induction of labor or the progress of spontaneous labor. What is the Bishop Score? The Bishop Score is a numerical system used to evaluate the cervix in terms of its readiness for labor. It takes into …

Hyperemesis Gravidarum: Understanding and Managing Severe Pregnancy Nausea

*Information in the post is not meant to be medical advice. Please reach out to your provider for support managing HG* For some people, pregnancy can bring an extreme form of nausea and vomiting called hyperemesis gravidarum. Unlike typical morning sickness, hyperemesis gravidarum is a severe condition that can significantly impact physical and emotional well-being during pregnancy. What is Hyperemesis Gravidarum? Hyperemesis gravidarum is a condition characterized by excessive nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. It goes beyond typical morning sickness, …