Posts
Posted by Kim:
By Susan Glairon
Longmont Times-Call
When her daughter would run out of milk, Stacey Vaught would pray. Each time, the Westminster mother’s call for help would be answered, she said.
Doctors had diagnosed, Grace, 2, with a bad case of inflammatory bowel disease, she said. Breast milk is one of the few foods her daughter can digest. One time a phone call from Longmont mom Hannah Gaitten answered Vaught’s prayers.
Gaitten had heard about Grace’s plight through www.mamasource.com, where a member of Vaught’s church posted a plea for mothers to donate breast milk.
Gaitten contacted the family and then solicited other moms through the momsoflongmont Yahoo group. Three women responded, and the four began pumping breast milk daily for Grace. They soon filled two large coolers with milk, including frozen milk they previously expressed for their own babies but didn’t need.
After collecting the milk, Gaitten called Vaught, and her husband drove to Longmont that day.
“They had just run out of milk,” Gaitten said. “I could hear Grace crying in the background.”
That was two months ago. Since the beginning, seven Longmont moms have pumped for Grace. But Gaitten is having trouble with her own milk supply and is trying to find other nursing mothers to help.
“This is a true need for this family,” Gaitten said. “They really rely on the giving of others.”
‘I knew it wasn’t normal’ Symptoms started about a year ago, when Grace began vomiting almost every night for several months, her mother said.
“The stench was amazing,” Vaught said. “I knew it wasn’t normal. I knew she wasn’t digesting food regularly.”
At one point, Grace cried and screamed for three days and didn’t eat or drink. Vaught and her husband took her to the hospital, where tests were performed, and then found a doctor to treat the disorder.
Soon after, Vaught thought about trying breast milk as Grace had already been weaned and Vaught was still nursing her younger child. The first time Grace drank it, she kept it down.
Vaught prayed: “Lord, if this is something, show me.”
But Vaught, a mother of six, could pump only 4 ounces that day. Armed with $35 and a prescription, she went to Mother’s Milk Bank, a Denver nonprofit, but was shocked to find it would cost $200 a day to buy enough milk for Grace. That day, the milk bank gave her extra.
She prayed again. Mother’s Milk Bank donated $1,000 worth of breast milk. When Vaught ran out of that milk, she prayed again. Samaritans Ministry Christian Health Care, a nonprofit through which Christians help other Christians with medical expenses, donated $21,000 for milk.
Vaught put word out at her church, and news of her plight quickly spread. Other women stepped forward to help, including the group of Longmont women. Through postings on the Internet, she sometimes receives coolers from across the nation from women she has never met.
She admits the milk has not been tested for diseases, but feels that the women had prenatal tests before giving birth.
“It’s really grown my faith,” Vaught said. “The Lord has told me to say, ‘I trust him.’ I trust him.”
She now has a two-week supply in the freezer, including milk recently donated from the Longmont mothers.
Grace drinks a 6-ounce bottle every meal. Vaught has slowly reintroduced some fruits and vegetables, which she rotates with the breast milk. Occasionally, Grace eats small amounts of rice and organic meat. She also takes enzymes to help her digest the food.
“There is no textbook thing about this,” Vaught said. “I have to be creative. I credit attention to what she eats and prayer.
“She can eat. She’s happy. Her hair is growing, and she’s got energy.
“I don’t know how long it has to be this way (drinking breast milk), but I feel like it’s getting better,” Vaught added. “I am thankful she can eat and she can live.”
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
The Doula Book - Part IV Birth with a Doula & Father's Role
Posted by Kim:
Covering Chapters 7 and 8 of The Doula Book
Chapter 7 Birth With A Doula
"To make clear the real-life role of a doula, we followed the labor and delivery of two different couples expecting their first babies. The first couple found the doula's help beneficial in their hospital birth, whereas the second couple, engaged a doula to help them at a midwifery-assisted birth in their home." (p 115)
"Having a doula did not undermine my role as husband and father during the whole process. It enhanced it." (p 127)
"To me, birth was not about excluding, but instead is about including. they are a useful tool that helps the mother and the father, so wht not use them?" (p 127)
"I remember two really important things the doula did... One was that she brought food and made a point not to even let us make her tea; she got busy and set it all up herself! And then she made the important point over and over again that we should just be in bed with our baby, letting our families and friends do the laundry, make meals, etc. - and she suggested we make a list of simple tasks and directions for anyone who offered to help out." (p 129)
"The other thing she [the doula] did was to write up a birth story for us, and that really helped us to come one step further out of the 'birth fog' " (p 130)
"The main thing she did was to keep reiterating how strong we were and how much of an honor it was to be a part of this time in our lives. That felt really great." (p 130)
Chapter 8 A Father's True Role
"Even more stressful are the changes occuring in the mothers, the people they [the fathers] love most - obvious pain, anxiety, unusual sounds and fluid discharges never seen before." (p133)
"We believe that too much is expected of men in childbirth today. Fathers cannot be objective; there is too much at stake." (p 133)
"In suggesting the support of a doula, our intent is not to diminish the father's role but to enhance it, to free him up to stand by the mother." (p 134)
"With the doula present, the father is never left as the sole, isolated, responsible person caring for the laboring mother." (P 134)
"A father needs to be present: a mother needs to know he is there, he is with her, loving, concerned, responsive, and taking responsibility." (p 134)
"His presence si important for the emotional connection of the couple and for their relationship to each other and to the baby." (p 134)
"Recognition and validation of the father's right and need to be present at the birth of his infant is not only compatible with but also enhanced by, the presence of a doula." (p 134)
"To help understand and compare the roles of the doula and father during birth, we have closely observed and recorded their behaviors during early and late labor." (p 136)
"Overall, fathers were present for somewhat less time during the labor than were the doulas. In early labor fathers were in the mothers' rooms 78% of the time, while in late labor they were in the mothers' room 95 % of the time." (p 136)
"Both in early and late labor the doulas remained with the mothers almost 100% of the time." (p 136)
"Throughout early and late labor the doulas remained closer physically to the mothers 85% of the time, while the fathers were that close for only 28% of the time." (p 136)
"Fathers held the mothers' hands a greater percentage of the time than did the doulas in early labor, but this recersed in late labor." (p 136)
"Overall, the fathers and the doulas held the mothers' hands about the same length of time. Both fathers and doulas talked much more in late labor than in early labor." (p 136)
"During both the early and late periods the doulas were touching the mothers more than 95% of the observation time, compared to less than 20% for the fathers." (p 137)
"Another ongoing study of fathers has noted that their behavior is altered when they are not the only person responsible for support. When a doula supported a couple throughout labor, the father was freed to offer more personal support and did much more intimate touching of the mother's head and face." (p 137)
"A doula with experience and no personal tie to the woman in labor could pace herself and not become anxious about behaviors and events that she knew were part of normal labor." (p 137)
"We suspect that in some cases the fahter's behavior, like sleeping or leaving late in labor, was a consequence of anxiety that his wife might die." (p 137)
"The mother in labor was so interested in having the father remain with her thoughout the delivery that she was devoting much of her attention and energy to his comfort and well-being." (p 138)
"The doula supporting the couple always thinks about what will be most helpful for both the mother and the father." (p 138)
"We strongly believe that a father cannot be a doula for ht emother. A father is rarely able, moment to moment, to appreciate what is happening with the mother and whether each change is a notmal part of labor." (p 144)
An easier role for him is to give emotional suport to the mother while the doula is there to support them both through the labor." (p 144)
"Men sometimes find it hard to observe, accept, and understand women's instinctive behavior during labor and delivery. Instead, they often try to keep laboring women from slipping out of a rational, self-controlled state." (p 144)
"When a doula is available to both the mand and the woman, they are able to fulfill their individual responsibilities: for the mother, going on with the birth, asking and receiving what she needs in the way of appropriate and empathic responses; for the father, being as supportive as he can be, yet responding at his own level of comfort and competence without losing face." (p 145)
"So many variable of an emotional nature can be projected into the birth situation. In contrast, the doula's role remains relatively constant. She is there only as a supportive and informed birth assistant." (p 146)
"Women who choose to become doulas want to help other women and have a certain empathic sense of childbirth. They have an opportunity during their training to understand their own personal issues associated with childbirth, and they learn not to project onto the laboring woman their own emotional needs." (p 146)
"The presence fo a doula complements a father's role and strengthens it." (p 147)
"Over and over again women say that 'just knowing my husband was there, just his holding my hand, was the most important thing for me - while I could trust the doula's words and actions and let myself go, feeling safe that her experience would see us though' " (p 148)
"Fathers, with the support of the doula, should be able to participate at any level that feels right and natural for them. In this way they can experience fully the joy and wonder of watching their babies come into the world." (p 148)
Covering Chapters 7 and 8 of The Doula Book
Chapter 7 Birth With A Doula
"To make clear the real-life role of a doula, we followed the labor and delivery of two different couples expecting their first babies. The first couple found the doula's help beneficial in their hospital birth, whereas the second couple, engaged a doula to help them at a midwifery-assisted birth in their home." (p 115)
"Having a doula did not undermine my role as husband and father during the whole process. It enhanced it." (p 127)
"To me, birth was not about excluding, but instead is about including. they are a useful tool that helps the mother and the father, so wht not use them?" (p 127)
"I remember two really important things the doula did... One was that she brought food and made a point not to even let us make her tea; she got busy and set it all up herself! And then she made the important point over and over again that we should just be in bed with our baby, letting our families and friends do the laundry, make meals, etc. - and she suggested we make a list of simple tasks and directions for anyone who offered to help out." (p 129)
"The other thing she [the doula] did was to write up a birth story for us, and that really helped us to come one step further out of the 'birth fog' " (p 130)
"The main thing she did was to keep reiterating how strong we were and how much of an honor it was to be a part of this time in our lives. That felt really great." (p 130)
Chapter 8 A Father's True Role
"Even more stressful are the changes occuring in the mothers, the people they [the fathers] love most - obvious pain, anxiety, unusual sounds and fluid discharges never seen before." (p133)
"We believe that too much is expected of men in childbirth today. Fathers cannot be objective; there is too much at stake." (p 133)
"In suggesting the support of a doula, our intent is not to diminish the father's role but to enhance it, to free him up to stand by the mother." (p 134)
"With the doula present, the father is never left as the sole, isolated, responsible person caring for the laboring mother." (P 134)
"A father needs to be present: a mother needs to know he is there, he is with her, loving, concerned, responsive, and taking responsibility." (p 134)
"His presence si important for the emotional connection of the couple and for their relationship to each other and to the baby." (p 134)
"Recognition and validation of the father's right and need to be present at the birth of his infant is not only compatible with but also enhanced by, the presence of a doula." (p 134)
"To help understand and compare the roles of the doula and father during birth, we have closely observed and recorded their behaviors during early and late labor." (p 136)
"Overall, fathers were present for somewhat less time during the labor than were the doulas. In early labor fathers were in the mothers' rooms 78% of the time, while in late labor they were in the mothers' room 95 % of the time." (p 136)
"Both in early and late labor the doulas remained with the mothers almost 100% of the time." (p 136)
"Throughout early and late labor the doulas remained closer physically to the mothers 85% of the time, while the fathers were that close for only 28% of the time." (p 136)
"Fathers held the mothers' hands a greater percentage of the time than did the doulas in early labor, but this recersed in late labor." (p 136)
"Overall, the fathers and the doulas held the mothers' hands about the same length of time. Both fathers and doulas talked much more in late labor than in early labor." (p 136)
"During both the early and late periods the doulas were touching the mothers more than 95% of the observation time, compared to less than 20% for the fathers." (p 137)
"Another ongoing study of fathers has noted that their behavior is altered when they are not the only person responsible for support. When a doula supported a couple throughout labor, the father was freed to offer more personal support and did much more intimate touching of the mother's head and face." (p 137)
"A doula with experience and no personal tie to the woman in labor could pace herself and not become anxious about behaviors and events that she knew were part of normal labor." (p 137)
"We suspect that in some cases the fahter's behavior, like sleeping or leaving late in labor, was a consequence of anxiety that his wife might die." (p 137)
"The mother in labor was so interested in having the father remain with her thoughout the delivery that she was devoting much of her attention and energy to his comfort and well-being." (p 138)
"The doula supporting the couple always thinks about what will be most helpful for both the mother and the father." (p 138)
"We strongly believe that a father cannot be a doula for ht emother. A father is rarely able, moment to moment, to appreciate what is happening with the mother and whether each change is a notmal part of labor." (p 144)
An easier role for him is to give emotional suport to the mother while the doula is there to support them both through the labor." (p 144)
"Men sometimes find it hard to observe, accept, and understand women's instinctive behavior during labor and delivery. Instead, they often try to keep laboring women from slipping out of a rational, self-controlled state." (p 144)
"When a doula is available to both the mand and the woman, they are able to fulfill their individual responsibilities: for the mother, going on with the birth, asking and receiving what she needs in the way of appropriate and empathic responses; for the father, being as supportive as he can be, yet responding at his own level of comfort and competence without losing face." (p 145)
"So many variable of an emotional nature can be projected into the birth situation. In contrast, the doula's role remains relatively constant. She is there only as a supportive and informed birth assistant." (p 146)
"Women who choose to become doulas want to help other women and have a certain empathic sense of childbirth. They have an opportunity during their training to understand their own personal issues associated with childbirth, and they learn not to project onto the laboring woman their own emotional needs." (p 146)
"The presence fo a doula complements a father's role and strengthens it." (p 147)
"Over and over again women say that 'just knowing my husband was there, just his holding my hand, was the most important thing for me - while I could trust the doula's words and actions and let myself go, feeling safe that her experience would see us though' " (p 148)
"Fathers, with the support of the doula, should be able to participate at any level that feels right and natural for them. In this way they can experience fully the joy and wonder of watching their babies come into the world." (p 148)
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Fuzzy Kiwi Store Closing
Posted by Kim:
As written by Loni & Missy -
Hello Ladies,
For 3+ years, Missy and I have enjoyed being able to offer women fashionable maternity clothes for a fraction of the retail price (literally 50-85% off!). This past year we opened the store and hoped to make it work, but this economy just did not allow it.
So we are very sorry to say that our last day open will be Saturday, February 21st. If you have not been to the store, trust me - you want to go. Sooooo many women over the years have told us they just wished they knew about us sooner because the deals are really incredible. If you aren't pregnant but have been to our store in the past and enjoyed it, we would love for you to tell your friends about the store so they don't miss out on their chance for great bargains.
For February - we will only be open on Saturdays from 10-5. We are making the announcement to our mailing list this week and the general public next week.
It has been a pleasure meeting you and we wish you the best. E-mail if you have any questions. Always remember, you should Expect Great Fashion!
Fuzzy Kiwi
1300 W. Midway
Broomfield, CO 80023
50-75% off maternity clothes
http://www.fuzzykiwi.com
As written by Loni & Missy -
Hello Ladies,
For 3+ years, Missy and I have enjoyed being able to offer women fashionable maternity clothes for a fraction of the retail price (literally 50-85% off!). This past year we opened the store and hoped to make it work, but this economy just did not allow it.
So we are very sorry to say that our last day open will be Saturday, February 21st. If you have not been to the store, trust me - you want to go. Sooooo many women over the years have told us they just wished they knew about us sooner because the deals are really incredible. If you aren't pregnant but have been to our store in the past and enjoyed it, we would love for you to tell your friends about the store so they don't miss out on their chance for great bargains.
For February - we will only be open on Saturdays from 10-5. We are making the announcement to our mailing list this week and the general public next week.
It has been a pleasure meeting you and we wish you the best. E-mail if you have any questions. Always remember, you should Expect Great Fashion!
Fuzzy Kiwi
1300 W. Midway
Broomfield, CO 80023
50-75% off maternity clothes
http://www.fuzzykiwi.com
Friday, January 30, 2009
The Doula Book - Part III Obstetric & Longer Term Benefits of Doula Support
Posted by Kim:
Covering Chapters 5 & 6 of The Doula Book
Chapter 5 Obstetric Benefits of Doual Support
"Continuous labor support from a doula in the ten studies reduced the odds of receiving analgesia by 31%, decreased the use of oxytocin to stimulate labor by 50%, forceps deliveries by 34%, and cesarean sections by 45%." (page 76)
"If the... continuous emotional and physical support leaves for just five minutes, when she returns, it takes nearly an hour to get the mother back to her earlier calm state." (page 77)
"The length of a first labor is nature's way of gradually, and carefully dilating the birth passage." (page 80)
"When low forceps have been applied by well-trained, experienced obstetricians, there is no harm to the baby." (page 86)
"For several decades in the mind-1900s one measure of a good obstetrical service was that the number of cesarean sections did not exceed 5 percent of the total deliveries." (page 87)
"However, the incidence of cesarean deliveries then skyrocketed to levels of 25 to 35 percent, with a few hospitals well above this. The cesarean delivery rate in the United States was 22 percent in 1999..." (page 87)
"When a mother develops a fever during labor, physicians recognize this as a warning the baby may have a serious and potentially fatal blood-stream infection called septicemia (sepsis). This is an uncommon occurrence, but because the risk of not treating a baby with sepsis is great, and because the diagnosis at the time of birth is difficult and existing antibiotics are effective, babies of mothers with fever are usually considered to have sepsis." (page 89)
"Maternal fever may be the only clue to a life threatening infection." (p 89)
"Mothers who had a fever were significantly more likely to have had epidural analgesia." (p 89)
"When a mother has epidural analgesia during labor, her temperature slowly but steadily rises; if labor is long enough, the temperature will reach the level of a fever." (p 89)
"It is difficult for physicians to be sure whether an individual mother's fever is due to epidural analgesia or to sepsis in the baby.... However, the decreased need for pain relief during labor when a doula provides support would lessen the number of epidurals and therefore the number of women who have fevers and the number of babies who have to be evaluated for illness." (p 90)
"For women whose labors were induced, the overall rate of epidural use was 81 percent." (p 90)
"The total induction group [in a case study] had a cesarean-delivery rate of 43 percent. The group of no-doula couples [in the case study], had had over three times the number of cesarean deliveries." (p 90)
"The more we care for the mother during this sensitive perinatal period [through the long hours of labor], the more sensitively and appropriately she will care for her baby." (p 92)
"Labor that has been progressing normally may slow down or stop when an epidural is started." (p 94)
"An analysis of eleven randomized trials involving 3,159 laboring women recently compared the effects of epidurals nor involving a regional block with no intervention. Epidural analgesia was associated with greater pain relief than nonepidural methods, but also with longer first and second stages of labor. In addition, there was an increased incidence of fetal malposition, increased use of oxytocin, and an increase in instrumental vaginal deliveries." (p 95)
"Medication does get into themother's bloodstream and then into the baby. Babies therefore have mild to moderate changes in their behavior in the first hours and days." (p 95)
"...A number of mothers have told us about their disappointment that they failed to go through labor without medication." (p 96)
*** THAT'S ME*** and it has taken me amny years to process it, but I don't think I will ever get over it! If I only had a doula!
"Mothers who have had epidural anesthesia do not get the same feeling of accoplishment or boost in self-esteem as those who deliver without an epidural." (p 96)
Chapter 6 Long-Term Benefits of Doula Support
"A number of well-designed studies show that humane, sensitive, and individually appropriate caregiving practices ... have produced four important benefits.
"Fewer doula-supported mothers considered the labor and delivery to have been difficult, fewer thought ti was much worse than they had imagined, and more believed they had coped well during this experience." (p 103)
"The doula-group mothers showed significantly less anxiety, fewer signs of depression and a higher level of self-esteem." (p 106)
"Some aspect of doula support resulted in doula mothers reporting a great increase in satisfaction with their partner since the birth of the baby and a much greater percentage of mothers who reported their relationship was better right after the birth." (p 107)
"Doula-supported mothers reported that their babies were less fussy, compared with reports of mothers who gave birth without a doula." (p 107)
"Doula-supported mothers reported that they were
"...Powerful effects of early mother-infant contact and interaction during a brief period around the time of birth that we have labeled the 'maternal sensitive period'. In this period - the time in the first minutes, hours, and days after birth - parent-infant contact, as we said earlier, may alter the parents' later behavior with that infant." (p 109)
"The remarkably strong and persistent effects associated with the doula suggests that the sensitive period starts during labor." (p 109)
Covering Chapters 5 & 6 of The Doula Book
Chapter 5 Obstetric Benefits of Doual Support
"Continuous labor support from a doula in the ten studies reduced the odds of receiving analgesia by 31%, decreased the use of oxytocin to stimulate labor by 50%, forceps deliveries by 34%, and cesarean sections by 45%." (page 76)
"If the... continuous emotional and physical support leaves for just five minutes, when she returns, it takes nearly an hour to get the mother back to her earlier calm state." (page 77)
"The length of a first labor is nature's way of gradually, and carefully dilating the birth passage." (page 80)
"When low forceps have been applied by well-trained, experienced obstetricians, there is no harm to the baby." (page 86)
"For several decades in the mind-1900s one measure of a good obstetrical service was that the number of cesarean sections did not exceed 5 percent of the total deliveries." (page 87)
"However, the incidence of cesarean deliveries then skyrocketed to levels of 25 to 35 percent, with a few hospitals well above this. The cesarean delivery rate in the United States was 22 percent in 1999..." (page 87)
"When a mother develops a fever during labor, physicians recognize this as a warning the baby may have a serious and potentially fatal blood-stream infection called septicemia (sepsis). This is an uncommon occurrence, but because the risk of not treating a baby with sepsis is great, and because the diagnosis at the time of birth is difficult and existing antibiotics are effective, babies of mothers with fever are usually considered to have sepsis." (page 89)
"Maternal fever may be the only clue to a life threatening infection." (p 89)
"Mothers who had a fever were significantly more likely to have had epidural analgesia." (p 89)
"When a mother has epidural analgesia during labor, her temperature slowly but steadily rises; if labor is long enough, the temperature will reach the level of a fever." (p 89)
"It is difficult for physicians to be sure whether an individual mother's fever is due to epidural analgesia or to sepsis in the baby.... However, the decreased need for pain relief during labor when a doula provides support would lessen the number of epidurals and therefore the number of women who have fevers and the number of babies who have to be evaluated for illness." (p 90)
"For women whose labors were induced, the overall rate of epidural use was 81 percent." (p 90)
"The total induction group [in a case study] had a cesarean-delivery rate of 43 percent. The group of no-doula couples [in the case study], had had over three times the number of cesarean deliveries." (p 90)
"The more we care for the mother during this sensitive perinatal period [through the long hours of labor], the more sensitively and appropriately she will care for her baby." (p 92)
"Labor that has been progressing normally may slow down or stop when an epidural is started." (p 94)
"An analysis of eleven randomized trials involving 3,159 laboring women recently compared the effects of epidurals nor involving a regional block with no intervention. Epidural analgesia was associated with greater pain relief than nonepidural methods, but also with longer first and second stages of labor. In addition, there was an increased incidence of fetal malposition, increased use of oxytocin, and an increase in instrumental vaginal deliveries." (p 95)
"Medication does get into themother's bloodstream and then into the baby. Babies therefore have mild to moderate changes in their behavior in the first hours and days." (p 95)
"...A number of mothers have told us about their disappointment that they failed to go through labor without medication." (p 96)
*** THAT'S ME*** and it has taken me amny years to process it, but I don't think I will ever get over it! If I only had a doula!
"Mothers who have had epidural anesthesia do not get the same feeling of accoplishment or boost in self-esteem as those who deliver without an epidural." (p 96)
Chapter 6 Long-Term Benefits of Doula Support
"A number of well-designed studies show that humane, sensitive, and individually appropriate caregiving practices ... have produced four important benefits.
- Decreasing abandonment in the maternity hospital.
- Decreasing rates of infant abuse
- Increased success in breast-feeding during the entire first year of life
- Increased father involvement in the first three months of the infant's life" (p 102)
- Improved parent-infant interaction at three months, increa
- Increased immunization rates at one year
- Resulted inan increased incidence of secure attachment at thirteen months" (p 102)
"Fewer doula-supported mothers considered the labor and delivery to have been difficult, fewer thought ti was much worse than they had imagined, and more believed they had coped well during this experience." (p 103)
"The doula-group mothers showed significantly less anxiety, fewer signs of depression and a higher level of self-esteem." (p 106)
"Some aspect of doula support resulted in doula mothers reporting a great increase in satisfaction with their partner since the birth of the baby and a much greater percentage of mothers who reported their relationship was better right after the birth." (p 107)
"Doula-supported mothers reported that their babies were less fussy, compared with reports of mothers who gave birth without a doula." (p 107)
"Doula-supported mothers reported that they were
- Pleased to have their babies
- Found becoming a mother was easy
- Felt that they could look after their babies better than anyone else could.
"...Powerful effects of early mother-infant contact and interaction during a brief period around the time of birth that we have labeled the 'maternal sensitive period'. In this period - the time in the first minutes, hours, and days after birth - parent-infant contact, as we said earlier, may alter the parents' later behavior with that infant." (p 109)
"The remarkably strong and persistent effects associated with the doula suggests that the sensitive period starts during labor." (p 109)
Thursday, January 29, 2009
The Doula Book - Part II Reducing Discomfort, Pain & Anxiety
As a continuation of my coverage of the The Doula Book by Klaus, Kennell and Klaus here are the excerpts of the book that I highlighted in chapters 3 and 4.
Chapter 3 - Enhancing the Birth Experience
"Knowing the doula will be available anytime during labor lessens the parents' initial anxiety, and the couple can then remain at home longer with more productive labor and less pain." (page 35)
"The doula never interferes with the physician's advice, and the mother will need to follow that advice if there are other concerns." (page 36)
"Most mothers progress more rapidly in familiar surroundings" (page 37)
"During this period (the beginning of labor) mothers have found the following suggestions helpful:
1. Walk as much as possible
2. If the membranes are not ruptured, a warm bath can help you remain more relaxed. However in early labor a warm bath may slow labor; in late labor a bath may increase dilation. If the membranes are ruptured, a shower is preferablebecause of the risk of infection.
3. Change positions at least every half hour
4. Drink plenty of liquids... Urinate frequently" (page 37)
"The doula needs to notice the quality of the environment of the room and the woman's immediate needs or comfort level." (page 37)
"Asking the woman if a suggestion is or isn't working can validate her sense of control and choice as well as help her recognize her own needs and give her permission to voice what is important to her." (page 38)
"A doula will continually be
1. noticing
2. asking the woman
3. doing something to make an appropriate change
4. rechecking to see if the change is helping or not" (page 38)
"Being well hydrated has been shown to help labor." (page 39)
SIDE NOTE - One of my doula clients went to the hospital thinking she was in labor, but when we arrived her contractions completely stopped. After a thorough exam the doctor determined that she had an elevated temperature due to contractions. After receiving liquids via an IV her temperature went down and she was released. I have also read that dehydration can cause contractions and false labor which may have been what happened to my client.
"The doula can reassure the woman that the smells and fluids of birth, like blood, feces and amniotic fluid, are all normal parts of labor and are quickly taken care of by the staff" (page 39)
"The doula can be the one to have the somewhat difficult task to limit the number (of friends and family attending the birth) without offending anyone." (page 39-40)
"When mothers are in the hands-and-knees position infants often rotate in ten to fifteen minutes from a posterior position." (page 41)
"...Squatting during second-stage labor with each contraction. This position increased the area of the bony outlet of the pelvis by 28 percent." (page 41)
"The doula's ability to keep the mother informed is essential." (page 42)
"When a doula continually informs the mother, asks her gently what her thoughts, worries, or concerns are, talks to her confidently with real information, the doula can help the woman shift her fear to more inner security." (page 43)
"It is also important for the woman to feel that she has control not only over her labor but also has choices about what sort of interventions will be used." (page 43)
"...Although the PKU test is very important, it can wait a few days until the mother's milk comes in." (page 43)
"What is important to a laboring woman is sincere talk, not fake or glib reassurance." (page 45)
"The doula stays emotionally connected to the mother and by joining in her reality, may be able to move her to a more comfortable inner place." (page 45)
"Progressing toward full dilation of the cervix and delivery is near, the following signs may be noted:
1. Flushing of the face and body
2. An increase in bloody mucus
3. Longer and stronger contractions
4. Legs often becoming shaky
5. A feeling of nausea
6. feeling of an urge to push" (page 45-46)
"At this point (transition) the doula's support can give the mother the incentive to continue; the doula sometimes holds the woman, she reminds the mother (and the father) over and over again that she can continue and is doing great." (page 46)
"... Everyone attending a woman in labor 'has a responsibility to ensure that [she] genuinely understands the purpose of every medical procedureand the results of every examination' " (page 46)
"Often labor stops when too many people are present." (page 47)
"In reassuring the parents and enhancing their sense of accomplishment, the doula may be modeling the parental role for them - mothering the mother and parenting the parents." (page 49)
*** " The family is born in the delivery room." ***
Chapter 4 - Reducing Discomfort, Pain, and Anxiety in Childbirth
"When a woman comes into labor she brings her past with her." (page 53)
"Pregnant women have varied expectations of pain, based on what they have heard or experienced." (page 53)
"Though a doula cannot solve issues in the mother's past... she can begin her work being fully present with the woman to calm her fears, to validate her strength, to reassure her that she won't be alone, and to work with her on measures to alleviate pain." (page 54)
"Can you remember a time you met a challenge and conquered it?" (page 54)
"If labor is slowing down, a doula might ask 'How are you feeling righ now?' and then when the mother answers, the doula should restate her answer to be sure she understanda the mother's meaning." (page 55)
"By validating themother's fear, instead of dismissing it, the doula can offer new ways to think about the pushing stage." (page 55)
"Relaxin, which causes the tissure to be as stretchy, strong, and supple as soft elastic." (page 55)
"The mother's urge to push and ability to judge how to push in the second stage is reduced [with an epidural]." (page 58)
"If the epidural goes too high, some women feel as though they can't breathe." (page 58)
"Frequently, there is a rise in the woman's body temperature which reaches the level of a fever during an epidural." (page 58)
"During labor, some women copmlain of shivering and itching and experience urine retention requiring a bladder catheter." (page 58)
"The doula can remind the woman to stay relaxed, create positive images with her, help her with breathing and calming techniques, and validate how well she is doing." (page 59)
"The doula has to be sure there is no threat to her breathing." (page 58)
"With cool washcloths to the mother's face, neck, and chest, if all is well, the doula can cool the mother who is overheated or who develops a fever." (page 59)
"Helping women express feelings and utter sounds may relieve tension." (page 67)
"Make sounds along with the woman, encouraging the mother to let tension go with each sound." (page 67)
"Making low sounds or groans deep in the throat through a comtraction has an effect parallel to opening the birth canal." (page 67)
SIDE NOTE - To be honest making noise and validating the need to make noises was a concern of mine when I went to my first birth as a doula. Like a mother going into labor I was concerned that I would sound or feel silly doing this, but after reading this book I realized that no matter how I felt on the inside I had to always project complete confidence and not be concerned about what other people would think about what I was doing or how I was acting. My goal and my only focus was to make my mom focus on herself, relax, and let her let go of any inhabitions she was holding on to. It only took a little time for me to get over any insecurities and I just kept focusing on what my good friend Laurie told me, she said "Trust your instincts, mother your mother and everything else will follow." Now that was amazing advice from an experienced doula!
"When a doula remains accepting, nurturing, competent, and strong, the woman can internalize a model that might help her remain both nurturing and strong with her ownchild during tough moments." (page 68)
"The doula needs the confidence to help the mother express her needs to the caregiver especially before and during intervention." (page 70)
"The doula needs to know her limits, and occasionally when a fetal malposition does not change, ot a woman is not progressing as expected or feels great discomfort, medical help can give her relief. When this is necessary the doula must validate the woman's courage as well as her decision to have such help." (page 70)
Side Note - This is the exact situation I had with my first doula client (as you may have already read) she had been laboring for 5 days prior to the day we decided to go to the hospital. So she had not gotten more than 3 or 4 hours sleep each night for 5 days prior to going to the hospital and had labored at the hospital for 15 hours at the hospital only to discover that in that time she had only progressed 2 cm. Although epidural was not even a consideration for her and her hsuband before the birth, it became apparent that the epidural was something she needed. She was tormented by making the decision and we hugged, cried and proceesed what was going to happen, but I kept reassuring her that no one was judging her and that we would all honor her choices and that getting the epidural did not make her any less of a mom. After receiving the epidural, we hoped she would relax and progress, but it was still another 12 hours before the baby was born. Although she is still working on processing her choice to get the epidural I keep reminding her how hard she had worked and not only for that one day at the hospital, but for the 5 days before as well.
"Reducing th stress response enhances the body's own production of oxytocin, as well as natural opiates called endorphins." (page 70)
"When labor is not impeded by undue stress and fear, the woman's own natural oxytocin is secreted from the posterior pituitary gland intot he bloodstream. At the same time, her brain also secretes oxytocin to other areas within the brain itself. This has four effects:
1. First it markedly increases the pain threshold, so that the mother has reduced sensitivity to pain.
2. Second, it results in drowsiness
3. Third, it results in some relaxation or calming
4. Finally, after the birth it helps the woman feel closer to the baby" (page 71)
"Comfort measures cna be divided into five categories
1. actions and behaviors that give emotional and psychological support
2. mental activites that divert attention from pain or focus attention on thoughts or images that increase mental and physical relaxation
3. physical activities such as relaxed breathing, muscular relaxation exercises, movement, position changes, use of water, heat, cold
4. touch, including massage, acupressure, pressure, and counterpressure
5. rhythmic activities, music, chanting, singing etc." (page 72)
Side Note - Much to my client's pleasure and their ability to relax, there is about a 0% chance that I will ever sing to them to help them relax. However, I could consider my singing a diversion or a relocation of pain (from the abdomen to the ears).
To be continued.....
Chapter 3 - Enhancing the Birth Experience
"Knowing the doula will be available anytime during labor lessens the parents' initial anxiety, and the couple can then remain at home longer with more productive labor and less pain." (page 35)
"The doula never interferes with the physician's advice, and the mother will need to follow that advice if there are other concerns." (page 36)
"Most mothers progress more rapidly in familiar surroundings" (page 37)
"During this period (the beginning of labor) mothers have found the following suggestions helpful:
1. Walk as much as possible
2. If the membranes are not ruptured, a warm bath can help you remain more relaxed. However in early labor a warm bath may slow labor; in late labor a bath may increase dilation. If the membranes are ruptured, a shower is preferablebecause of the risk of infection.
3. Change positions at least every half hour
4. Drink plenty of liquids... Urinate frequently" (page 37)
"The doula needs to notice the quality of the environment of the room and the woman's immediate needs or comfort level." (page 37)
"Asking the woman if a suggestion is or isn't working can validate her sense of control and choice as well as help her recognize her own needs and give her permission to voice what is important to her." (page 38)
"A doula will continually be
1. noticing
2. asking the woman
3. doing something to make an appropriate change
4. rechecking to see if the change is helping or not" (page 38)
"Being well hydrated has been shown to help labor." (page 39)
SIDE NOTE - One of my doula clients went to the hospital thinking she was in labor, but when we arrived her contractions completely stopped. After a thorough exam the doctor determined that she had an elevated temperature due to contractions. After receiving liquids via an IV her temperature went down and she was released. I have also read that dehydration can cause contractions and false labor which may have been what happened to my client.
"The doula can reassure the woman that the smells and fluids of birth, like blood, feces and amniotic fluid, are all normal parts of labor and are quickly taken care of by the staff" (page 39)
"The doula can be the one to have the somewhat difficult task to limit the number (of friends and family attending the birth) without offending anyone." (page 39-40)
"When mothers are in the hands-and-knees position infants often rotate in ten to fifteen minutes from a posterior position." (page 41)
"...Squatting during second-stage labor with each contraction. This position increased the area of the bony outlet of the pelvis by 28 percent." (page 41)
"The doula's ability to keep the mother informed is essential." (page 42)
"When a doula continually informs the mother, asks her gently what her thoughts, worries, or concerns are, talks to her confidently with real information, the doula can help the woman shift her fear to more inner security." (page 43)
"It is also important for the woman to feel that she has control not only over her labor but also has choices about what sort of interventions will be used." (page 43)
"...Although the PKU test is very important, it can wait a few days until the mother's milk comes in." (page 43)
"What is important to a laboring woman is sincere talk, not fake or glib reassurance." (page 45)
"The doula stays emotionally connected to the mother and by joining in her reality, may be able to move her to a more comfortable inner place." (page 45)
"Progressing toward full dilation of the cervix and delivery is near, the following signs may be noted:
1. Flushing of the face and body
2. An increase in bloody mucus
3. Longer and stronger contractions
4. Legs often becoming shaky
5. A feeling of nausea
6. feeling of an urge to push" (page 45-46)
"At this point (transition) the doula's support can give the mother the incentive to continue; the doula sometimes holds the woman, she reminds the mother (and the father) over and over again that she can continue and is doing great." (page 46)
"... Everyone attending a woman in labor 'has a responsibility to ensure that [she] genuinely understands the purpose of every medical procedureand the results of every examination' " (page 46)
"Often labor stops when too many people are present." (page 47)
"In reassuring the parents and enhancing their sense of accomplishment, the doula may be modeling the parental role for them - mothering the mother and parenting the parents." (page 49)
*** " The family is born in the delivery room." ***
Chapter 4 - Reducing Discomfort, Pain, and Anxiety in Childbirth
"When a woman comes into labor she brings her past with her." (page 53)
"Pregnant women have varied expectations of pain, based on what they have heard or experienced." (page 53)
"Though a doula cannot solve issues in the mother's past... she can begin her work being fully present with the woman to calm her fears, to validate her strength, to reassure her that she won't be alone, and to work with her on measures to alleviate pain." (page 54)
"Can you remember a time you met a challenge and conquered it?" (page 54)
"If labor is slowing down, a doula might ask 'How are you feeling righ now?' and then when the mother answers, the doula should restate her answer to be sure she understanda the mother's meaning." (page 55)
"By validating themother's fear, instead of dismissing it, the doula can offer new ways to think about the pushing stage." (page 55)
"Relaxin, which causes the tissure to be as stretchy, strong, and supple as soft elastic." (page 55)
"The mother's urge to push and ability to judge how to push in the second stage is reduced [with an epidural]." (page 58)
"If the epidural goes too high, some women feel as though they can't breathe." (page 58)
"Frequently, there is a rise in the woman's body temperature which reaches the level of a fever during an epidural." (page 58)
"During labor, some women copmlain of shivering and itching and experience urine retention requiring a bladder catheter." (page 58)
"The doula can remind the woman to stay relaxed, create positive images with her, help her with breathing and calming techniques, and validate how well she is doing." (page 59)
"The doula has to be sure there is no threat to her breathing." (page 58)
"With cool washcloths to the mother's face, neck, and chest, if all is well, the doula can cool the mother who is overheated or who develops a fever." (page 59)
"Helping women express feelings and utter sounds may relieve tension." (page 67)
"Make sounds along with the woman, encouraging the mother to let tension go with each sound." (page 67)
"Making low sounds or groans deep in the throat through a comtraction has an effect parallel to opening the birth canal." (page 67)
SIDE NOTE - To be honest making noise and validating the need to make noises was a concern of mine when I went to my first birth as a doula. Like a mother going into labor I was concerned that I would sound or feel silly doing this, but after reading this book I realized that no matter how I felt on the inside I had to always project complete confidence and not be concerned about what other people would think about what I was doing or how I was acting. My goal and my only focus was to make my mom focus on herself, relax, and let her let go of any inhabitions she was holding on to. It only took a little time for me to get over any insecurities and I just kept focusing on what my good friend Laurie told me, she said "Trust your instincts, mother your mother and everything else will follow." Now that was amazing advice from an experienced doula!
"When a doula remains accepting, nurturing, competent, and strong, the woman can internalize a model that might help her remain both nurturing and strong with her ownchild during tough moments." (page 68)
"The doula needs the confidence to help the mother express her needs to the caregiver especially before and during intervention." (page 70)
"The doula needs to know her limits, and occasionally when a fetal malposition does not change, ot a woman is not progressing as expected or feels great discomfort, medical help can give her relief. When this is necessary the doula must validate the woman's courage as well as her decision to have such help." (page 70)
Side Note - This is the exact situation I had with my first doula client (as you may have already read) she had been laboring for 5 days prior to the day we decided to go to the hospital. So she had not gotten more than 3 or 4 hours sleep each night for 5 days prior to going to the hospital and had labored at the hospital for 15 hours at the hospital only to discover that in that time she had only progressed 2 cm. Although epidural was not even a consideration for her and her hsuband before the birth, it became apparent that the epidural was something she needed. She was tormented by making the decision and we hugged, cried and proceesed what was going to happen, but I kept reassuring her that no one was judging her and that we would all honor her choices and that getting the epidural did not make her any less of a mom. After receiving the epidural, we hoped she would relax and progress, but it was still another 12 hours before the baby was born. Although she is still working on processing her choice to get the epidural I keep reminding her how hard she had worked and not only for that one day at the hospital, but for the 5 days before as well.
"Reducing th stress response enhances the body's own production of oxytocin, as well as natural opiates called endorphins." (page 70)
"When labor is not impeded by undue stress and fear, the woman's own natural oxytocin is secreted from the posterior pituitary gland intot he bloodstream. At the same time, her brain also secretes oxytocin to other areas within the brain itself. This has four effects:
1. First it markedly increases the pain threshold, so that the mother has reduced sensitivity to pain.
2. Second, it results in drowsiness
3. Third, it results in some relaxation or calming
4. Finally, after the birth it helps the woman feel closer to the baby" (page 71)
"Comfort measures cna be divided into five categories
1. actions and behaviors that give emotional and psychological support
2. mental activites that divert attention from pain or focus attention on thoughts or images that increase mental and physical relaxation
3. physical activities such as relaxed breathing, muscular relaxation exercises, movement, position changes, use of water, heat, cold
4. touch, including massage, acupressure, pressure, and counterpressure
5. rhythmic activities, music, chanting, singing etc." (page 72)
Side Note - Much to my client's pleasure and their ability to relax, there is about a 0% chance that I will ever sing to them to help them relax. However, I could consider my singing a diversion or a relocation of pain (from the abdomen to the ears).
To be continued.....
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
The Doula Book - Part I The Need for Support and the Role of the Doula
Posted by Kim:
The process of becoming a certified DONA Doula has several facets and one part of the certification process is to read 5 books from the required reading list and the DONA International Birth Doula Position Paper.
To see the entire required reading list click here.
One of the first books I decided to read is The Doula Book by Klaus, Kennell and Klaus. Because of the pending births of my doula clients I literally devoured this book and was very impressed by how informative it was and how easy it was to read. In my opinion the authors did a wonderful job intertwining the description of the role of the doula and connecting it with statistically significant studies.
In this blog series I thought I would share with you some of the points I highlighted while reading the book.
Chapter 1 The Need for Support in Labor
"Continuous support from a doula during labor provides physical and emotional benefits for mothers and health bonuses for their babies. With less medical interventions, fewer complications, and shorter hospital stays, there may be financial savings as well." (page 1)
"In studies of over 5000 women... we have seen a major reduction in the length of labor, a greater than 50 percent drop in cesarean sections, a remarkable drop in the mothers' need for pain medication, and several other important and measurable benefits." (page 3-4)
"I want the doula there to assure me that everything is fine and to comfort me. I want my husband there for emotional support." (page 9)
"A recent study found that women giving birth encountered an average of 6.4 unfamiliar professionals during labor." (page 11)
"When... the caregivers goal is to reassure, relax, comfort, and inform the mother rather than to tend only to the needed medical interventions, that person takes the same supportive role as a doula." (page 11)
"With such help, parents can capture the special moments and priceless experience of their own unique childbirth." (page 12)
Chapter 2 The Special Role of the Doula
"A doula learns that she has to be wiling to take anything for an answer... The experienced doula develops enough confidence and self-esteem that she is not offended by the woman's seeming rejection of that action." (page 16)
"The woman can be completely at ease with the doula and unconcerned about having to try to please her or put on a show for her." (page 17)
"The most important assurance that a doula can give in these initial (prenatal) visits is that she will remain with the mother throughout the entire labor and not leave her alone." (page 17)
"By her presence, manner, and comforting touch, the doula creates calmness and the essence of relaxation." (page 19)
"By her words and actions, the doula models behaviors and attitudes that are almost always copied and appreciated by the father. At times a doula needs to be resolutely strong and firm, and at other periods in the labor, tender, soft, and loving." (page 22)
"A woman in labor needs total support - in order to let go completely, to allow her own system to adapt and respond to the power of the birthing process." (page 23)
List of qualities for choosing a doula (page 27)
This book is definitely right on when it comes to the role and the need for a doula. Throughout the labor of my first doula client I kept thinking to myself, man I wish I had had a doula. Why didn't I know about this? I decided to become a doula because after learning more about the role of the doula, hearing stories about Carri's client's births, and attending many birth education conferences for BINSI I was invigorated by how a doula can enhance a woman's birth experience and how dramatically the presence of a doula can effect birth.
The more I learned the more I realized that the role of the doula is not to replace the partner, but rather to be there to support both the partner and the laboring mother so that they can stay emotionally connected. While it is special to me for my moms to tell me that they felt like I was truly there for them, there is a little special extra special when the dads say they couldn't have done it without me. I never want my clients to feel like I was trying to replace them, but rather I want them to feel like I helped them be the best support they could be.
I only wish I had listened to our friend Chuck when he said "Get a doula, it is the best money spent." WHY WHY WHY didn't we listen? Well as with everything in life hindsight is 20/20. So now I have made it my mission to at least educated as many women as I can about the role of the doula and how it can enhance their birth. I still struggle with the decisions I made during my births and will always wonder how different my births would have been if I had had a doula, but truthfully being a doula has helped me heal from some of my birth decisions and has also helped me to process my births. As with everything it is a process, but I hope to use my experiences as a mother and as a doula to help women have the best birth experience. It is my goal, and BINSI's, to Honor Moms!
The process of becoming a certified DONA Doula has several facets and one part of the certification process is to read 5 books from the required reading list and the DONA International Birth Doula Position Paper.
To see the entire required reading list click here.
One of the first books I decided to read is The Doula Book by Klaus, Kennell and Klaus. Because of the pending births of my doula clients I literally devoured this book and was very impressed by how informative it was and how easy it was to read. In my opinion the authors did a wonderful job intertwining the description of the role of the doula and connecting it with statistically significant studies.In this blog series I thought I would share with you some of the points I highlighted while reading the book.
Chapter 1 The Need for Support in Labor
"Continuous support from a doula during labor provides physical and emotional benefits for mothers and health bonuses for their babies. With less medical interventions, fewer complications, and shorter hospital stays, there may be financial savings as well." (page 1)
"In studies of over 5000 women... we have seen a major reduction in the length of labor, a greater than 50 percent drop in cesarean sections, a remarkable drop in the mothers' need for pain medication, and several other important and measurable benefits." (page 3-4)
"I want the doula there to assure me that everything is fine and to comfort me. I want my husband there for emotional support." (page 9)
"A recent study found that women giving birth encountered an average of 6.4 unfamiliar professionals during labor." (page 11)
"When... the caregivers goal is to reassure, relax, comfort, and inform the mother rather than to tend only to the needed medical interventions, that person takes the same supportive role as a doula." (page 11)
"With such help, parents can capture the special moments and priceless experience of their own unique childbirth." (page 12)
Chapter 2 The Special Role of the Doula
"A doula learns that she has to be wiling to take anything for an answer... The experienced doula develops enough confidence and self-esteem that she is not offended by the woman's seeming rejection of that action." (page 16)
"The woman can be completely at ease with the doula and unconcerned about having to try to please her or put on a show for her." (page 17)
"The most important assurance that a doula can give in these initial (prenatal) visits is that she will remain with the mother throughout the entire labor and not leave her alone." (page 17)
"By her presence, manner, and comforting touch, the doula creates calmness and the essence of relaxation." (page 19)
"By her words and actions, the doula models behaviors and attitudes that are almost always copied and appreciated by the father. At times a doula needs to be resolutely strong and firm, and at other periods in the labor, tender, soft, and loving." (page 22)
"A woman in labor needs total support - in order to let go completely, to allow her own system to adapt and respond to the power of the birthing process." (page 23)
List of qualities for choosing a doula (page 27)
This book is definitely right on when it comes to the role and the need for a doula. Throughout the labor of my first doula client I kept thinking to myself, man I wish I had had a doula. Why didn't I know about this? I decided to become a doula because after learning more about the role of the doula, hearing stories about Carri's client's births, and attending many birth education conferences for BINSI I was invigorated by how a doula can enhance a woman's birth experience and how dramatically the presence of a doula can effect birth.
The more I learned the more I realized that the role of the doula is not to replace the partner, but rather to be there to support both the partner and the laboring mother so that they can stay emotionally connected. While it is special to me for my moms to tell me that they felt like I was truly there for them, there is a little special extra special when the dads say they couldn't have done it without me. I never want my clients to feel like I was trying to replace them, but rather I want them to feel like I helped them be the best support they could be.
I only wish I had listened to our friend Chuck when he said "Get a doula, it is the best money spent." WHY WHY WHY didn't we listen? Well as with everything in life hindsight is 20/20. So now I have made it my mission to at least educated as many women as I can about the role of the doula and how it can enhance their birth. I still struggle with the decisions I made during my births and will always wonder how different my births would have been if I had had a doula, but truthfully being a doula has helped me heal from some of my birth decisions and has also helped me to process my births. As with everything it is a process, but I hope to use my experiences as a mother and as a doula to help women have the best birth experience. It is my goal, and BINSI's, to Honor Moms!
Monday, January 26, 2009
Partnerships - Operation Special Delivery - CAPPA
Posted by Kim:
Our mission as a company and as mothers is to not only enhance a woman's birth experience by changing what she wears, but also to forge partnerships with other organizations in the birth world so that we can use our business to help benefit women around the world. The first organization we joined forces with was Operation Special Delivery.
Press Release April 15, 2008
Boulder, CO - BINSI, the leading manufacturer of stylish and hospital-friendly labor and birth apparel, has partnered with the Childbirth and Postpartum Professional Association (CAPPA) to support Operation Special Delivery. Operation Special Delivery provides trained volunteer doulas to pregnant women whose husbands or partners are deployed, have been severely injured, or who have lost their lives due to the current war on terror. The CAPPA-certified doulas offer emotional, informational, and physical support to women during childbirth in the absence of their husbands.
BINSI, a female-owned company since its inception in 2005, is committed to supporting women through pregnancy, birth, and beyond. Through this partnership, BINSI is donating 5 percent of their sales to CAPPA for Operation Special Delivery.
"No woman should ever have to give birth without someone there to lovingly support her," says Carri Grimditch, founder and co-owner of BINSI. "Operation Special Delivery offers that support by providing doulas to the women whose husbands or partners are away making an immense sacrifice for our country."
Just as it's important for women to feel comfortable and empowered by the clothing they wear during labor and birth, it's also important for them to have people there to advocate for and encourage them. Research has shown that women who have a doula present during labor are less likely to require emergency C-sections and other invasive medical procedures. "Partnering with Operation Special Delivery seemed like a natural fit for BINSI" Grimditch says.
About BINSI
BINSI's mission is to help women feel supported and empowered throughout their pregnancy, labor, and birth by offering products that make them feel healthy, beautiful and in control of their motherhood journey. BINSI Labor and Birth Apparel is comfortable, modest, and stylish while still being fully compatible with any labor position and medical equipment - a great alternative to unflattering, immodest hospital gowns. All BINSI products are tested and approved by mothers, doulas, midwives, obstetricians, and nurses. For more information about BINSI, visit www.BirthInBinsi.com
Our mission as a company and as mothers is to not only enhance a woman's birth experience by changing what she wears, but also to forge partnerships with other organizations in the birth world so that we can use our business to help benefit women around the world. The first organization we joined forces with was Operation Special Delivery.
Press Release April 15, 2008
Boulder, CO - BINSI, the leading manufacturer of stylish and hospital-friendly labor and birth apparel, has partnered with the Childbirth and Postpartum Professional Association (CAPPA) to support Operation Special Delivery. Operation Special Delivery provides trained volunteer doulas to pregnant women whose husbands or partners are deployed, have been severely injured, or who have lost their lives due to the current war on terror. The CAPPA-certified doulas offer emotional, informational, and physical support to women during childbirth in the absence of their husbands.
BINSI, a female-owned company since its inception in 2005, is committed to supporting women through pregnancy, birth, and beyond. Through this partnership, BINSI is donating 5 percent of their sales to CAPPA for Operation Special Delivery.
"No woman should ever have to give birth without someone there to lovingly support her," says Carri Grimditch, founder and co-owner of BINSI. "Operation Special Delivery offers that support by providing doulas to the women whose husbands or partners are away making an immense sacrifice for our country."
Just as it's important for women to feel comfortable and empowered by the clothing they wear during labor and birth, it's also important for them to have people there to advocate for and encourage them. Research has shown that women who have a doula present during labor are less likely to require emergency C-sections and other invasive medical procedures. "Partnering with Operation Special Delivery seemed like a natural fit for BINSI" Grimditch says.
About BINSI
BINSI's mission is to help women feel supported and empowered throughout their pregnancy, labor, and birth by offering products that make them feel healthy, beautiful and in control of their motherhood journey. BINSI Labor and Birth Apparel is comfortable, modest, and stylish while still being fully compatible with any labor position and medical equipment - a great alternative to unflattering, immodest hospital gowns. All BINSI products are tested and approved by mothers, doulas, midwives, obstetricians, and nurses. For more information about BINSI, visit www.BirthInBinsi.com
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