Inclusion seeks not to erase anyone within a broad group of individuals; instead, it allows us to invite more people under the umbrella whenever we address a group of unique individuals. Inclusive terms matter. As language continues to evolve, and in a world still in great need of dismantling oppressive systems, may we mindfully consider the words we use. May we embrace inclusive terms as more mindful, accurate, and effective language, in perinatal spaces and beyond.
Read MoreWe are celebrating the launch of our new and improved Sprout & Blossom Botanicals products and our Birth Equity Fund!
Join us Saturday, December 10 from 4-6pm at The Arts Marketplace (at Studio Park, downtown Grand Rapids)
Read MoreI have been talked through transferring to the OR for cesarean. I have uttered those familiar words, "Whatever it takes to get my baby here safely" and meant them with every fiber of my being. I had a very long labor at home during what was a planned homebirth. After a few days of laboring with a stuck baby (her chin wouldn't tuck, and I was lingering at about 8/9cm dilated), I opted for an epidural at the hospital in order to get some rest. I knew that an epidural would likely mean Pitocin, and that I was risking a cascade of interventions. But I felt confident in my decision to transfer to the hospital and medically intervene. Little did I know, I would be talked through cesarean 3 times in the next 9 hours.
Read MoreThis World Doula Week, we have a lot to celebrate at Sprout and Blossom! 1. Brianna Trammell’s one year doula-versary; 2. Our growing support team now includes lactation counselor, Sarah Hill!; 3. Our evolving brand (& new logo!); 4. 5 years serving the birthing community; 5. An ever-increasing list of empowered birthing persons!
Here are some labor scenarios based on actual experiences, alongside insight into how doula support makes a difference. May these stories from Annica's experience encourage you to trust in the process and empower you to embrace the wild and spontaneous nature of birth!
Read MoreIt wasn’t until the afternoon of Monday, February 17 — 9 days after my “guess date” — that the strong, persistent contractions stuck around. It was the real deal this time! (My midwives knew what they were talking about when they revealed that most first-time birthers don’t go into labor naturally until closer to 10 days after their “due date.”)
Read MoreAnnica jokingly suggested that Hayley have her baby in the backyard when she arrived on a beautiful day for their homebirth. Hayley said, “sure” and the rest is history. Hayley tells the story of her second baby’s birth - a VBAC, at home, in water, en caul.
Read MoreDon’t get me wrong, I do think that the process of making a birth plan is valuable. But your birth team matters more.
Find a doula who you trust…and then trust her knowledge of local providers.
With a doula and a clinical provider that you are really confident will support you, you will be set up the best you can be for the unknowns of your individual birth experience. Your birth team matters more than your birth plan.
Read MoreBeing ON-call truly does change the rhythm of life for those of us who do birth work. It is part of the gig, but it is definitely one of the hardest parts. Here’s a snapshot of what OFF-call life looks like for me!
Read MoreLet’s talk about the third stage of labor - the birth of the placenta. Know what to expect during this process, and how to ensure you are set up for postpartum care for down there. The placenta is incredible.
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