The “golden hour” after birth is known for its powerful benefits, but in real hospital settings, it doesn’t always go as planned. Here’s why that happens, what it means for you, and how to advocate for the experience you want.
Category: Childbirth
Everything Childbirth
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Trust the Process: Letting Labor Begin on Its Own
When you’re in those final weeks of pregnancy, the excitement (and discomfort!) often starts to build. You’re ready to meet your baby. You’ve washed the…
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The Peanut Ball: A Simple Tool That Can Make a Big Difference in Labor
When preparing for labor, many expectant mothers are surprised to learn that tools as simple as a peanut-shaped exercise ball can play a meaningful role…
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Should I Travel for a Family Gathering Close to My Due Date?
You’re getting close to your due date, and there’s a big family gathering coming up. It might be a holiday, a reunion, or your niece’s…
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What Really Happens When You Arrive at the Hospital or Birth Center for Labor
You’ve timed your contractions, packed your bag, and made your way to the hospital or birth center. You’re ready. You’re uncomfortable. You may even be…
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Your Choices Matter: Using the BRAIN Tool to Advocate for Yourself in Pregnancy and Birth
You always have a voice in your pregnancy and birth. Shared decision-making means your provider brings the medical expertise, and you bring your values, preferences, and lived experience. Using the simple BRAIN tool: Benefits, Risks, Alternatives, Intuition, and Nothing, you can confidently advocate for yourself during critical moments and make informed choices for you and your baby.
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Is It Time Yet? Why Many Women Arrive Too Early in Labor—and What You Need to Know
It’s one of the most common scenes in labor and delivery: a hopeful, wide-eyed parent-to-be walks into the hospital thinking, “This is it!”—only to find…
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Devices in the Delivery Room: Are They Helping or Hindering?
Walk into a modern labor and delivery room and you might think you’ve stepped into a mini medical command center. Beeping monitors, IV pumps, oxygen…
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How Society Shapes Your Birth Expectations—And What to Do About It
When it comes to childbirth, everyone has a story to tell. Your best friend’s water broke in a dramatic splash in the grocery store. Your…
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Not Just Titles: The Real Value of Each Provider in Pregnancy and Postpartum Care
When you’re pregnant or navigating postpartum care, you’ll meet many healthcare professionals—OBs, midwives, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, nurses, lactation consultants, and pediatricians. Each plays a unique role in keeping you and your baby safe. This post breaks down who’s who on your perinatal care team, what they do, and why teamwork matters more than titles.