Editor: Diane Yantis
www.thebirthtrainer.com
Bio:
I have been in the birth field since 1999. Being a doula is my passion, my calling. Currently I offer Antepartum/Prenatal, Labor/Birth and Postpartum doula assistance, childbirth and lactation education and The Happiest Baby classes. I am a mother of 6 children, which includes a set of twins, all born before 36 weeks. I have expanded my work to include my informational website, my website stores and I am now training Childbirth Educators and Antepartum Care Specialists.
Diane Yantis, CD (DONA), CACS, CPCE, CHBE
Using aromatherapy during labor is a great way to scent the birthing suite for relaxation. Scent for Success!
Play tug-o-war when the mother begins pushing. Have someone hold one end of a knotted towel and have the mother hold the other end. When it’s time to push, each person pulls. This helps the mother to open her pelvic floor muscles, thus helping her learn where to push. Try this a few times and she’ll be a pro at pushing.
In early labor, eat! Go for the good carbohydrates that are easily digestible. Baked potatoes with a little butter, yogurt, toast and crackers are just a few.
Childbirth Preparation Classes empower women to learn their options for birth.
Note: Most TV shows that show childbirth are edited.
A birth plan is a paper that can open the lines of communication between the mother and her caregivers. It states the mother’s wishes for her birth, but she should remember to be flexible.
Kegel, Kegel, Kegel! Three to Five sets of 10 every day.
Practice relaxation techniques daily. Relaxation is the key to coping with labor pains.
Know the signs of pre-term labor.
No matter what type of birth the mother is looking for, a doula can help to make it healthier for mother and baby.