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 …
Black Pioneers In Birth & Medicine
Black pioneers have played a vital role in shaping maternal health, midwifery, and medical advancements, yet their contributions are often overlooked. From groundbreaking doctors and surgeons to midwives who served their communities with dedication, these individuals have paved the way for better care and birth outcomes. This Black History Month, we celebrate their legacy and the lasting impact they’ve had on healthcare…🔹 Dr. Rebecca Lee Crumpler (1831–1895) – The first Black woman in the U.S. to earn a medical degree. …
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, …
Helping Baby Engage: Tying the Belly Up and Doing Belly Lifts in Second Pregnancies
In a second or subsequent pregnancy, it’s common for the baby to take a bit longer to engage or settle into the pelvis, compared to a first-time pregnancy. If you’re noticing that your baby hasn’t “dropped” yet, don’t worry—it’s not unusual, and there are safe, effective techniques you can use to encourage baby’s engagement, like belly lifts and tying the belly up. In this blog, we’ll explore why babies might not engage as early in second pregnancies, when they typically …
Carrot Birth and Postpartum Doula Coverage
Carrot Fertility: Revolutionizing Doula Services Coverage The journey to parenthood is a profound experience, filled with moments of joy, anticipation, and sometimes, anxiety. Doulas play an essential role in providing continuous emotional, physical, and educational support during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. Traditionally, doula services have been out-of-pocket expenses, limiting access for many families. Enter Carrot Fertility, a company committed to making high-quality fertility and family-forming care more accessible. Carrot is now stepping up to cover doula services, offering a significant …
Celebrate Black History Week!
Above photo credited to Lakisha Cohill photographer and founder of H & C Inc. Breastfeeding is a beautiful and natural way to nourish a newborn, providing them with essential nutrients, antibodies, and a strong foundation for lifelong health. However, the journey of breastfeeding has not been without challenges, especially for Black parents. In recognition of these challenges and the importance of equitable support, Black Breastfeeding Week takes center stage. This annual event, celebrated from August 25th to 31st, seeks to …
Cervical Checks and Membrane Sweeps During Pregnancy
As you near your due date, you may hear the term “membrane sweep” mentioned in discussions about labor prep. But what exactly is it, and why is it done? Let’s also explore the importance of informed consent and informed refusal, empowering you to make informed choices during your childbirth journey. What is a Membrane Sweep? A membrane sweep, also known as a cervical sweep or stretch and sweep, is a procedure performed during pregnancy and/or labor to potentially initiate labor …
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 …
7 Things To Do in Washington DC While Waiting For Labor
Welcoming a new life into the world is an exciting and joyous experience. However, reaching the 40th week of pregnancy can also bring restlessness and the desire to stay active. If you happen to be in Washington, D.C. during this special time, don’t worry! The nation’s capital offers plenty of engaging and enjoyable activities suitable for expectant mothers. In this blog post, we’ll explore some fantastic things to do in Washington, D.C. while 40 weeks pregnant, ensuring a memorable and …