Mindfulness and meditation have been shown to have numerous benefits for physical and mental health, and they can be especially helpful during pregnancy and birth.

By preparing early in pregnancy, you can give yourself the best chance of having a natural birth. It’s important to take a childbirth class focused on natural birth, to surround yourself with a supportive birth team, and to prepare your body and mind for the birth that you want.

A doula is a valuable addition to your birth team, but you may be asking yourself, “When should I hire a doula to ensure that I get the most out of the experience?” Here are a few of the key factors to consider when deciding when to hire a doula.

If you are interested in pursuing a natural or unmedicated birth in Grand Rapids, it may be worth considering a midwife as a care provider. Midwives are generally more supportive of these types of childbirth options and may be able to provide the personalized care and guidance you need to have a successful natural or unmedicated birth.

Anyone raising a newborn needs about six extra hands and about ten extra hours per day. A postpartum doula cannot grow you limbs or bend time, but it might seem like they can.

There is no wrong place to give birth. There is only where you will feel safest, most comfortable, and most supported. But how can you figure that out? How do you know which is right for you?

If you have already had a baby you might be wondering whether it even makes sense to have a doula for your second baby. Or third. Or eighth. After all, you’ve been through the process before. You know how it goes. You know what to expect. So, you might be asking yourself, “Do I need a doula for my second baby?”

The best doulas support your vision for your birth; they don’t impose their personal preferences and ideas about what your birth should be like.