As a doula, I’ve walked into countless hospital rooms where labor is unfolding in real time—sometimes slowly and peacefully, sometimes quickly and intensely. And almost every time, someone eventually says the same thing:

“I wish I had packed that.”

Packing your birth bag isn’t just about being prepared. It’s about creating a small sense of comfort and familiarity in a space that can feel very clinical and unfamiliar. When labor begins, the last thing you want is to be worrying about socks, phone chargers, or lip balm.

So from a doula who has seen a lot of birth bags—some brilliant and some… a little chaotic—here are the things I gently encourage my clients to bring.

Comfort Items for Labor

Labor is physical, emotional, and often unpredictable. Small comforts can make a big difference.

Comfortable robe or loose gown
Hospital gowns are practical, but many parents feel more relaxed in something that feels like their own clothing. A soft robe is perfect for walking the halls or staying cozy between contractions.

Warm socks or slippers
Labor rooms can get chilly, and warm feet go a long way toward overall comfort.

Lip balm
This is the item that people forget most often. Labor breathing can make your lips incredibly dry, and having lip balm nearby can feel like a tiny lifesaver.

Hair ties or headband
Once labor gets intense, hair in your face becomes very annoying very quickly.

Massage oil or lotion
If your partner or doula is providing back pressure or massage, a little lotion makes it far more comfortable.

Things That Help the Environment

One of the most helpful things you can do in labor is create a calm atmosphere. Hospitals are busy places, but you can still shape the environment around you.

Battery candles or soft lighting
Many hospital rooms are lit with bright fluorescent lights. Soft lighting can make the room feel calmer and more intimate.

A small speaker or playlist
Music can be grounding during labor. Some parents want calm music, others want complete silence—either way, it’s nice to have the option.

Essential oils (if allowed)
A familiar scent like lavender or peppermint can help some people relax or refocus during contractions.

Practical Must-Haves

These are the items that may not be glamorous, but they make life much easier.

Phone charger with a long cord
Hospital outlets are often in inconvenient places. A long charging cable saves a lot of frustration.

Snacks and drinks
Labor can be long. Having easy snacks for your partner—and sometimes for yourself depending on hospital policies—can make a big difference.

Copies of your birth preferences
While many hospitals document these in your chart, it can still be helpful to have a printed copy available for nurses and providers.

Insurance card and ID
Not exciting, but definitely important.

After Baby Arrives

The postpartum hours are tender, emotional, and often a little surreal. Having a few comforts ready helps you settle in.

A comfortable outfit for going home
Choose something soft and loose. Your body will still look about six months pregnant, and comfort is key.

A newborn outfit
Hospitals usually provide basics, but many parents love bringing a special outfit for the first trip home.

A simple toiletry kit
Toothbrush, face wash, deodorant, and a hairbrush can feel surprisingly refreshing after birth.

One Thing I Always Tell My Clients

The truth is, you don’t need a perfectly packed bag to have a beautiful birth. Hospitals provide many essentials, and if something is forgotten, someone can usually grab it.

But thoughtful preparation helps you feel grounded. It allows you to focus on what truly matters—moving through labor, welcoming your baby, and stepping into a moment that will change your life forever.

And from a doula’s perspective, the best thing you can pack in your birth bag isn’t an item at all.

It’s the intention to take your birth one moment at a time.

The post What should I pack in my birth bag? appeared first on BIRTH AND BEAUTY.

I have had a baby already. I am an experienced mom. Why would I need a doula for my second baby?

Why You Still Need a Doula for Your Second Birth

As I sit here on call, waiting for a family I had the honor of supporting during their first birth, I find myself reflecting on something I hear so often:
“Do I really need a doula for my second baby?”

It’s an honest question. You’ve done this before. You know how contractions feel, what labor might look like, how to breathe through the waves. You’ve experienced the power of birth firsthand.

But here’s what I’ve learned from standing beside families through their first, second, third — even sixth births:

No two births are ever the same.

Just because you’ve given birth before doesn’t mean this birth won’t bring its own emotions, rhythms, or unexpected turns. Your body might remember some of the process — but this body has changed. This baby is different. The circumstances of your life — your heart, your support system, your fears, your hopes — are not the same.

Birth is unpredictable — and that’s exactly why having a doula matters.

You don’t know how your labor will unfold — none of us do. Babies tend to keep their birth plans a secret until the very last moment. Most of the time, things go smoothly… but sometimes they don’t. And when the unexpected happens — physically, emotionally, or both — you deserve someone who can remain calm in the chaos and steady in the storm.

Doulas are trained to handle change.

When things shift, we don’t panic — we adapt.
We help you understand your options, find your voice, and stay grounded through every twist and turn.

You might find yourself exhausted, overwhelmed, or pushed to your emotional edge. Your partner might be, too. That’s when having someone in the room who’s calm, present, and experienced becomes everything — someone who can think clearly, advocate gently, and guide you through the intensity with compassion and strength.

Sometimes, second-time parents feel pressure to “have it all together.” To be the strong one, the experienced one. But birth is not a performance. It’s not about doing it better than last time — or even the same. It’s about surrendering — again — to the unknown, and being fully supported in it.

A doula isn’t there because you’re inexperienced.
A doula is there because you’re human.

We’re there to hold space for your emotions, to protect your environment, and to gently guide your partner in offering meaningful support. We’re there to notice the moments you might miss, to advocate for your wishes, and to keep you anchored when things get intense.

Sometimes second births are faster. Sometimes they’re not.
Sometimes they’re more emotional, more healing, more overwhelming than the first.
And sometimes, the need for continuous, unwavering support is even greater — especially when there’s a toddler at home, past trauma to process, or new fears rising up.

Having a doula isn’t about whether or not you can do it.
Of course you can. You already have.

It’s about knowing you don’t have to do it alone.

The post Do I need a doula for a second baby? appeared first on BIRTH AND BEAUTY.

Do I have to lie on my back to deliver my baby?

What happens during a hospital labor and birth depends greatly on your advocacy and your OB. It is important for you to speak about options with your OB before you head to the hospital to birth. Making sure they are open to what you want and need is crucial to avoid being super uncomfortable at the hospital. If they are not open to your wishes, it is never too late to find a different OB.

One option to ask your OB is if they are open to birthing in different positions, not just on your back and your legs in stirrups. Now, I have heard OBs say to clients, “Of course you can labor in different positions.” However, that wasn’t your question. Your question is birthing in different positions. That is a HUGE difference. You may end up feeling that your back is the best way for you at the time, but maybe in that moment, it is better if you stand, be on all fours, or be in a side-lying position. An OB should really be the guide and help if there is a complication, and allow you the freedom to birth as you wish. If they are not or are sticklers for being on your back, then you need to decide if that is the right OB for you.

What If I Want Delayed Cord Clamping?

Your idea and your OB’s idea of delayed cord clamping may be vastly different. Again, I believe in hospitals and doctors, and if there is an emergency, there is no other place I would want to be. That said, having babies is a numbers game. Quick in and quick out, make room for the next family. For most OBs (huge generalization here), their idea of cord clamping is about a minute to, at most, 5 minutes. They want to sew you up (if needed for tearing), make sure there is no excess bleeding and move on.

The reason for delayed cord clamping is to allow for the transfer of blood and stem cells from the placenta to the newborn. These benefits include increased blood volume, improved iron stores, and potentially better neurodevelopmental outcomes. So, for these reasons, delayed cord clamping should be done until the cord turns white. That means all the goodies have gone to the baby, and there are none left in the cord. This, generally speaking, is going to be longer than 5 minutes. It could be up to 10 minutes. That is a long time in a doctor’s world. It is important to talk to them before your baby’s birth date. This should be included in your birth preference plan.

What if A Different Doctor is Delivering my Baby?

You may be surprised how often this happens. I would say it is about 50/50, in my experience, that a family’s chosen OB does the actual delivery. It is important that you give and have the on-call OB (as well as the nurses) know that you have a birth preference plan. The on-call OB needs to know your wishes. This is where advocacy for yourself is super important because now you need to start over with this new on-call OB, and make sure you convey the importance of your wishes.

What about the Golden Hour?

After the whirlwind of giving birth, you’ll find yourself in a magical moment of bonding with your new family. There’s a soft hush in the room, punctuated only by the gentle sounds of your newborn’s breaths. For about an hour, you’ll have the precious opportunity to soak in this new reality.

However, the first 15-30 minutes might feel like a bustling hive of activity, with nurses coming in and out, checking vital signs, and ensuring everything is just right. But don’t let that distract you; once those initial flurries settle down, you’ll be left with 30-45 minutes of uninterrupted togetherness. This Golden Hour is generally given unless there is some issue with you or baby.

What about newborn shots?

This is something they will ask if you want. That is entirely up to you.

The vitamin K shot: Newborns have low levels of Vitamin K, which is essential for blood clotting.

Eye Drops: Eye drops (often erythromycin) are given to prevent conjunctivitis (eye infection) caused by certain bacteria that can be present during delivery. 

Hepatitis B Vaccine: This vaccine protects against Hepatitis B virus, which can cause liver damage. The first dose is usually given within 24 hours, with subsequent doses at 1-2 months and 6-18 months.

To learn more about vaccines at the hospital, you can follow this link to UCLA Health

In Summery

I truly hope you found Parts I, II, and III helpful. I want to encourage you to consider hiring a doula (like me!) if you ever feel uncertain about navigating the hospital. Having a supportive guide can make all the difference in your experience.

Going solo is absolutely okay, but be mindful of the potential for information overload. It’s easy to get lost in the sea of links and resources, spiraling down a rabbit hole that might leave you feeling overwhelmed. A doula can help you stay focused and ensure you have the right information at the right time.

Investing in this support can provide peace of mind and empower you to make informed decisions throughout your journey. Your experience matters, and having a dedicated advocate by your side could turn what may feel like a daunting journey into a more manageable and positive one. Consider the benefits—it could be the best choice you make!

The post What Really Happens in Labor Part III appeared first on BIRTH AND BEAUTY.

Ok, So I Might Need Doula Support

Think of a doula as a resource you and your partner can rely on throughout pregnancy, labor, birth, and beyond. A doula can provide physical, emotional, and informational support in many ways.

1. More coping methods: Your doula can suggest ways to help ease the stress and pain of labor. For example, they can show you breathing techniques or help find a more comfortable position as you work through contractions.
2. Fewer interventions: Studies have shown that doulas can decrease the need for assisted vaginal birth and lower the likelihood of a cesarean birth. If you do end up needing a cesarean, a doula can still provide reassurance and support. Your birth doula may even be able to go with you to the operating room, if you wish, instead of a partner or other support person.
3. An unbiased resource: Doulas are trained to point you to evidence-based resources, so you can stay informed and empowered throughout your pregnancy and birth. They can also help you put together your birth plan by asking questions you may not have considered. Do you want the baby placed on your chest right after birth? Will you bank your baby’s umbilical cord blood?
4. An advocate: Once you’re in labor, the doula can be a voice for your birth plan, helping to make your preferences known to your health care team. Your doula can also help you make decisions in the moment. (Sometimes surprises happen, and new choices need to be made.)
5. Another set of hands: A doula can take a little pressure off your partner, family members, and friends.
6. Better communication: Doulas can help navigate confusing situations. They can remind doctors and nurses to explain medical terms and help make sure you always know what is going on.
7. Extra attention: Your doctor and nurses can’t be in the room for every minute of your labor, as they need to tend to other patients. Having a doula there at all times can help you feel relaxed, calm, and fully supported.
8. A more satisfying birth experience: People who use birth doulas often report having a more positive childbirth experience.

This All Sounds Good, But How Much is a Doula?

As with everything, prices will vary from person to person. Depending on where you live, hiring a birth doula can cost between $500 and $2,000 out-of-pocket. If cost is an issue, you can ask about a payment plan. Another option is to hire a doula-in-training, who may offer their services for free or at a reduced rate.

Insurance carriers (including Medicaid) are now starting to cover the cost of a doula. This is great news for everyone. We are getting our due recognition as a true part of the birth team and families are getting costs covered.

You’ve heard “it takes a village” to raise a child. In many ways, that’s true of labor and birth as well. You can have a team of people to support you on this journey, and a birth doula can absolutely be one of them. If you would like to know more about my doula offerings, please feel free to contact me here.

The post Is a Birth Doula Necessary? appeared first on BIRTH AND BEAUTY.

If you are planning a holistic natural waterbirth with a medicine woman using anointing oil and chanting children who are smudging your space with sacred white sage, plans can and will change. Without thought and some preparation (like a list of preferences), something that derails in your plan can set your mind on fire and fill you with fear. Even if the hospital cannot grant some of your preferences, the mere fact that you know what may happen in each scenario will put you at ease, lessen fear and allow you to accept a birth story that is different from your envisioned one.

Does a doula help with birth plan preferences?

Yes. A hundred percent yes. I would be leery of a doula who doesn’t go over all scenarios. If your doula is simply writing down all your wants and then putting it on a nice sheet of paper for your doctor or midwife and neglecting to go over alternative scenarios, then they may be doing you a disservice. You should know what may happen in X scenario or Y scenario or even Z scenario.

Won’t I be sad if my birth doesn’t go to plan?

Firstly, remember there is no plan. There are preferences.

Secondly, if you have your heart set on a specific plan and it goes sideways and no thought has been put in to alternate scenarios, you may be sad. That’s not really for me to say. What I will say, is the better prepared you are, the less likely fear and anxiety will take hold should things go differently than what you envision.

Let me explain what I mean by preferences for different scenarios. Below is a quick example of a birth plan that I tend to use. What is in each category is entirely up to you. This is one I used for a recent hospital birth.

After the preliminaries such as who the birth person is, their support people, the EDD, allergies, etc., it looks something like this-

Labor Preferences

We wish to have a calm hospital birth. We will be using hypnobirthing techniques therefore
environment and language is very important to us. We would appreciate not using the words pain and
contraction and use surge , strength, power and intensity.

Monitoring

Intermittent monitoring is requested and preferably with a wireless unit so I can maintain mobility.

Environment

Sight- It is very important that the lights be dimmed throughout labor with use of electric tealights
and/or Fairy lights. Our doula and photographer will be taking photographs. She does have a flash unit
and if it causes distruption in my labor, she will turn it off.
Sound- We have our own music soundtrack.
Smell- We will have essential oils.
Touch- I may use a Tens machine during early labor. I will be wearing a hospital gown.
Taste- I plan to eat and drink normally. I will be bringing snacks and drinks to the hospital.

Pain Relief

Please remind me of the tools I do have which include my breathing techniques, visualizations,
massage, heat pack and cold pack, positive affirmations and shower. Please do not offer pain relief
as I will ask when it is needed.
Additionally I do not want any opioid pain medications, but will consider an epidural only if I am unable
to rest or unable to progress due to discomfort. I would like a “walking epidural” if possible to retain
some movement and awareness.

During Birth

Ideally I do not wish to be lying on my back. I would like to be in a position that promotes
UFO–upright, forward and open which facilitates a quicker and easier birth.
I do not wish to be coached to push, but rather follow the lead of my body and breathe baby down
so baby is born gently and calmly.

After Birth

I would like baby brought to my chest immediately after. If that is not a possibility, I would like my
partner to do skin to skin.
It is important for the environment to remain calm after baby has been born.
I would like delayed cord clamping until all the blood has gone to baby.

Assisted Delivery

Unless there is a medical Emergency

I would rather wait longer, than rush the process.
Unless the baby is in distress, I prefer to obstain from the use of any aggressive measures
including vacuum or forceps. There would need to be a significant medical need for
an episiotomy.

Unplanned Cesarean

I would like to request a gentle cesarean.
I would like to receive my baby to my chest immediately before cleaning or weighing.
Please ensure any electrodes are placed on back to not inhibit this important skin to skin time.
I would like to request delayed cord clamping.
I would like to see my baby being born, so please lower the curtain or have clear draping.
I would like the lights dimmed at the head end, so when baby is brought to my chest,
baby is not subjected to a bright light.

I would like my choice of music played in theater.
If baby needs to go to the NICU, then I want to be able to care for him/her as much as possible and
use my breast milk. I would like help to make sure this happens.

Anything Else

This is where you can put your desire to have the Vitamin K injection, eye ointment, or the HepB vaccine.

Thank you

Thank you for taking the time to read our birth preferences. I am looking forward to the birth of my
baby and planning for a positive and empowering birth experience. I believe this is possible however
my birth plays out. Thank you for supporting us in this very special time in our lives.

Will a hospital pay attention to my birth plan preferences?

It has been my experience that the nurses will read your birth preference and most midwives and OBs. Most are very happy to have it, but some are outliers and feel it is a waste. Will they be able to accommodate everything you have written? Not likely, but it is important that your support person has a vested interest in what it says so they can advocate for you when your energy is elsewhere. The way the above is written is non threatening, lets them know you have done your research and that you are prepared for different scenarios. I like to add the thank you at the end, reminding them they are appreciated, but it is your birth.

I hope this was helpful for you. If you have any questions or are think about a doula (and birth photographer!), feel free to contact me and learn more.

The post Are Birth Plans Reliable? appeared first on BIRTH AND BEAUTY.

Now, this birth was with two very special humans who I like to call new friends. October 4th was this little lady’s first day breathing air. Mom and Dad had some very specific requests. Hospital trauma is real and should never be confused with simply “not liking hospitals”. Trauma and reactions to it are visceral and can physically manifest. Doing everything possible to minimize additional trauma with childbirth was a task both the partner and I took on. I learned so much as their doula and photographer about managing trauma and feelings of crisis.

The partner showed me techniques they use called EFT Tapping for anxiety. He used it during labor quite effectively. There is not a ton that can be done with a hospital room setting, but going in beforehand, seeing the space and using visualization techniques were helpful. Letting them know exactly what to expect in the room and who to expect in the room was useful. Hospital birthing rooms can become quite crowded when pushing begins. Special essential oils were incorporated, low lighting and electric candles were brought in to make the space comfortable. One thing I always feel is essential is purchasing your own hospital gown. These gowns give the same access to doctors and nurses, but they feel better, look better and don’t remind you of being in a hospital.

The birth preferences for this beautiful momma didn’t go to plan exactly as written, but it was close and she has an amazingly beautiful little girl.

Ready to inquire about labor support and birth photography? Doesn’t cost anything to send a message to me. Talk to you soon!

The post A Pasadena Birth story: Huntington Hospital appeared first on BIRTH AND BEAUTY.

Our job starts far before you go into labor. A doula meets with you and your partner a couple times before the big event. We are there to listen and answer any questions you may have and if we don’t have the answer, we’ll find it. A doula may help you with exercises to prepare for birth, aid you in writing your birth plan or show your partner how they can enjoy the birth process as well.

Doulas serve as someone you can call if you have doubts or questions. You can call your doula to ask a question that comes up, to get words of strength and reassurance or talk you “off the ledge”.

During your birth, we are there with you. Your doula comes when you need her Your doula comes when you need her. Using emotional, physical and informational support, a doula helps you maintain a sense of control, comfort, and confidence. Doulas may use touch, massage or counter pressure to ease the birthing person. Even the best laid plans have a way of going sideways and a doula can help you understand the process or what a doctor or midwife is saying.

What A doula is not

A doula is not a medical worker. We do not give medical advice, supervise a birth or prescribe any medications. The Doula is there to bridge the gap between medical professionals and expectant parents. They do not make medical decisions, but they do explain medical procedures to the parents when they are necessary.

The post What is a doula? appeared first on BIRTH AND BEAUTY.

In April of 2020, I started my journey to understanding on a deeper level and become a doula. As I write this, I am not finished with my education, but I would like to impart some knowledge as I go. In this episode of “What the heck is birth about” I will talk about the physical changes a body goes through while in labor.

What the heck is birth about and what are the Stages of Labor?

Ok, ok, we all know that birth is about pushing a tiny human out of our body so that we can love him and hold him and life will be magical. Maybe you have dreamt of this day forever. Perhaps you have gone into this as a warrior, steadfast in your knowledge. Or maybe you are a bit fearful of any pain. Maybe, like me, you didn’t give it a lot of thought and just waited with baited breath to hold your baby. However you think about birth, knowing the physical changes your body undergoes is hugely important. Why? Well, knowledge is power. When you know what your body is physically doing during the stages of labor, you can mentally prepare and the fear can subside.

The Physical Changes-Prodromal Labor

The first stage of labor-Prodromal Labor- are contractions may begin hours or even days before active labor. They are irregular in length, frequency and intensity. The key word here is irregular. On average they are not longer than a minute and range 7 to 10 minutes apart.

• The cervix is moving from a posterior (back) position to an anterior (forward) position.
• The cervix is softening.
• Effacement or thinning of the cervix is beginning. It may thin anywhere from 0% to 50% during this stage.
• May lose the mucous plug from the cervix.
• The cervix may begin to dilate, opening anywhere from 1 to 4 centimeters.

It’s quite normal to get excited that the moment is finally here, but remember this is just the beginning and to remain calm as this transition can take awhile. The stages of labor are just beginning!

The Physical Changes-Active (Latent Phase) Stage 1

The latent phase is the beginning of active labor and can last anywhere from a few hours to 10 hours or more. The contractions will grow longer, stronger and closer together.

• The cervix continues thinning out (effacement).
• The cervix will dilate to 4 or 5 centimeters.
• You may have a couple of loose bowel movements.
• If it hasn’t happened already. you may lose your mucous plug.
• You may notice a bloody show. Bloody show is thick vaginal discharge that contains mucus and blood from the cervix.

The Physical Changes-Active Labor (Active Phase) Stage 1 continued

The active phase of labor will continue with contractions that grow longer stronger and closer together. At this stage you will find yourself working so hard that everything outside your body almost ceases to exist.

• The cervix continues thinning out (effacement).
• The cervix will dilate to 9 or 9+ centimeters.
• Your body will be working very hard during this stage.
• Your water may break at any point. If it does, you may find contractions are increasing in intensity.
• You may notice a bit more bloody show. Some blood is normal now as her cervix stretches open and some of its tiny blood vessels break.
• It is important to continue to get enough to drink to avoid dehydration.

The Physical Changes-Active Labor (Transition Phase) Stage 1 

Transition marks the period when her body completes its labor and prepares to move into birthing the baby. It is perhaps the most intense part of the labor process, physically and emotionally. It is the shortest phase of labor and pushing will soon begin.

• -The cervix will dilate to 9 or 9+ centimeters.
• -Your body will be working very hard during this stage. Some women will tremble or shake.
• -Some women may be nauseous and/or vomit.
• If your water hasn’t broken yet, it may do so at any time.
• The contractions come closer together, perhaps one to two minutes apart. They will last from one minute to ninety seconds. Some may come in pairs with no rest period between them. These are called camelback contractions. These contractions will be the most intense in strength. They reach their peak quickly and maintain it for most of the contraction.

Birth (Latent Phase) Stage 2

The latent phase of stage 2 is the period that it takes the body to “switch gears” so to speak, moving from the dilating of the cervix to pushing the baby down the birth canal. It begins when the cervix is completely dilated and ends with the urge to push along with the contractions.

• The cervix is completely dilated.
• The uterus is shifting gears from dilating contractions, to pushing contractions.
• Contractions are becoming further apart since the work of dilating the cervix is completed. It is not unusual for there to be five or more minutes between contractions.
• For some women contractions may all but cease.

Birth (Active Phase) Stage 2 continued

The active phase of stage 2 is when the pushing comes.

• The baby’s head is molding to fit through the pubic outlet, stretching the birth canal as it goes.
• You may expel some feces, urine or gas.
• You may feel nauseous.
• Pushing contractions are usually five to ten minutes apart and are accompanied for most women by an intense urge to push. It is not unusual for some women to feel little or no urge to push.
• You may be able to feel the baby’s head moving down the vagina.

Crowning and Birth (Active Phase) Stage 2

As the baby’s head begins to emerge it is referred to as crowning. This is an extremely intense phase emotionally and physically. This is the actual birth of the baby.

• The baby’s head will emerge.
• These pushing contractions may be a bit farther apart if she is especially tired.
• Following a short pause to make sure the umbilical cord is not wrapped around the baby’s neck (this is called a Nuchal Cord and is not usually as dangerous as TV and Movies would like to make you think it is); the doctor/midwife will gently ease the top shoulder out first, then the bottom shoulder. The rest of the baby’s body should slip right out.
• You may feel an intense burning at the vaginal outlet, although many women do not.

Delivery of the Placenta (Afterbirth) Stage 3

Although the baby has been born, you still has some work to do. The stages of labor do not end with the birth of baby. The placenta needs to be expelled. If the placenta is delayed, your doctor, nurse or midwife may encourage its expulsion by ‘kneading’ your belly to get the uterus to contract more effectively. This is called fundal massage. 

• Many women notice no sensation at all until they are asked to bear down “one more time.”   The placenta separates from the uterine wall and is expelled through the vagina.
• You may feel the uterus cramp, especially if the baby begins suckling immediately.
• You may feel an uncomfortable “full” sensation even though the baby is out, until the placenta is delivered.
• Other than a cramping sensation, there will be no more contractions.

To sum it up-Stages of Labor

The changes in your body are pretty amazing. The more knowledge you have about what’s going on, the easier it can be. Knowledge of the stages of labor is power. The more knowledgeable and powerful a woman is, the less fear there is. The less fear there is, the less stress there is. The less stress there is, a more positive experience a woman can have. Some women may forget everything when the chips are down, this is why a doula can really make a difference.

If you are ready to talk about your birth plan, please contact me today. If you need doula support through the stages of labor, I can help. For more information about the stages of labor, the Mayo Clinic site has some interesting pieces of information.

The post The Physical Stages of Labor–Los Angeles Birth Photography appeared first on BIRTH AND BEAUTY.