Birth Your Baby With Confidence and Love

"Everyone was impressed with how calm I was and how fast it went. Thank you for all the wisdom and everything you taught me. I felt truly prepared!" --- Hila D., Philadelphia

You Can Have a Beautiful Birth

Leave your fears aside and experience a birth with calm and peace; love and joy.

Have the birth YOU want.

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Such an important #Repost @postpartum_depression_2024
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Iron deficiency mimics anxiety and panic attacks. B12 deficiency presents as severe depression. Zinc deficiency causes intrusive thoughts. Magnesium deficiency triggers mood swings.

**Comment MASTERCLASS for a seat in our upcoming 🆓 training on the 4 Stages of Postpartum Depletion.**

Yet the system never taught us to look here first.

Here’s the gap we’re all working in:

🩺 Medical school: 4 hours of nutrition training total
📚 Nutritionists: Zero hours on postpartum-specific nutrition
🧠 Mental health training: Symptoms → diagnosis → treatment

🔬 Standard protocol: Depression screening, not depletion screening

So we do what we were trained to do. We’re excellent clinicians working within a broken framework.

But what if we had the tools to prevent these issues from arising?

This isn’t about mothers being “depleted by design.”This is about us having the knowledge to keep them nourished.

When we understand postpartum nutrition:

- We can prevent many mental health symptoms before they start
- We can differentiate between depletion and depression
- We can offer targeted interventions that actually address root causes
- We become the providers we dreamed of being

You became a provider to help mothers thrive, not just survive.

You deserve the tools to provide the care you envisioned.

Comment MASTERCLASS for info on the 4 Stages of Postpartum Depletion Masterclass coming live next week! Join us live to uncover how depletion progresses, why the healthcare system keeps missing the real root cause of maternal decline, and the framework that’s changing everything.

#postpartumjourney #postpartumdepression #ppd #postnataldepression #postnataldepletion #postpartumdepletion #perinatalmentalhealth #postpartummentalhealth #mentalhealthmatters #holistichealthcare #nutritionist #postpartumcoach #mentalhealththerapist #ibclc #ob #midwifery

good reminders 🥰
#Repost @the.daisydoula with @use.repost
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Oxytocin 💗💗 The LOVE hormone. The one that is so highly needed during labour to help bring your baby earthside.
Save this post to refer back to. Or send it to your partner to remind them of ways to help you 🙌

The #affirmation maybe most of us #newmoms need to hear. ✨

We have a never ending amount of decisions during #pregnancy, #birth and in raising a child. What if we listened to our intuition and just felt the comfort and trust that we are making the best decisions for ourselves and our baby? What if we could be more confident #mothers ? What if..?

Start my new #hypnobirthingclass with me this Wednesday on June 11th so you can be a #confident mom during pregnancy, birth and postpartum!

Link is in my bio 😉

#mindfulpregnancy #confidentwoman #confidentmom #calmpregnancy #calmbirth #hypnobirthing #positiveaffirmations #phillyhypnobirthing

☀️S U M M E R C L A S S E S ☀️

If you are expecting a #baby in the late summer/fall, then pick a class and come join us!

You will learn:
✅ How to have the optimal mindset for the optimal birth eliminating the fear-tension-pain cycle
✅ how to be educated and informed for all birthing options
✅ how to have a smoother and calmer birth
✅ how your partner and birth team can better support you during labor
✅ how to connect deeper to your baby during pregnancy and beyond
✅ how to transform from anxious to calm and confident for the birth of your baby

… AND MORE!

Are you in???

Link is in my bio🥰

#betterbirth #calmbirth #mindsetiseverything #hypnobirthing #phillyhypnobirthing #childbirtheducation #phillybirthclass #phillyparents

No one talks about nutrition AFTER #birth . Check out this #Repost @prenatalnutritionist with @use.repost
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Postpartum is one of the most nutritionally demanding times in life—your body needs even more of certain nutrients than it did during pregnancy.

But that doesn’t mean feeding yourself has to be stressful or complicated. With the right strategies, postpartum nutrition can be both nutrient-rich and realistic.

Simple meals can be packed with what your body needs to heal, produce milk (if breastfeeding), and feel more like yourself again.

🥑 Want to learn more about nutrition support after baby?
Follow @prenatalnutritionist and join @theprenatalnutritionlibrary app!

🤱 Want to learn more about physical support after baby?
Follow @mamastefit and go to mamastefit.com to join a tailored program!

I love this post from Lindsay @bodyreadymethod about these 5 great moves to do in pregnancy.
These moves are not simply so you feel good in pregnancy but also so you create the most available space for baby during labor, making things more efficient during birth.
Let me know if you would like a personal body assessment or help mastering these moves. Link is in my bio 😉. #phillyhypnobirthing
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5 moves I made sure to incorporate into all of my pregnancies (plus, of course, the science behind why they’re so useful for pregnant bodies 🧬)

1️⃣ Standing Psoas Release
Why I love it: The Psoas is baby’s guidewire into the pelvis so having a supple psoas is really helpful for helping baby engage in the pelvis optimally

2️⃣ Aligned Lunge with Side Bend
Why I love it: This is a great tool to help baby enter into the top of the pelvis in late pregnancy/early labor by addressing some of the tissues that, when tense, can inhibit fetal engagement

3️⃣ 3D Breathing
Why I love it: Ribcage mobility and pelvic mobility go hand in hand! 3D breathing also helps send the signal to the Nervous System that we are safe and allows for the nervous system to down-regulate. This is a critical piece of birth progress AND ease

4️⃣ Pelvic Tuck/Untuck
Why I love it: This one is amazing at helping with pelvic mobility and the ability to initiate movement WITH the pelvis. Watch how this move starts with the pelvis, not my spine!

5️⃣ Hip Hinge
Why I love it: Our hamstrings are part of our posterior chain and attach into the pelvis. Strengthening and lengthening these tissues is a key piece in creating mobility in the bottom of the pelvis, the pelvic outlet where baby comes out

Which one is your favorite?

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#prenatalfitness #mobilitytraining #pregnancyfitness #birthprep

We are in constant dialogue with our baby in #pregnancy and beyond. Whether we are at the gas station or grocery store we are sending messages to our baby. What are those messages? Stress and worry or calm and love? We get to choose.
Let’s send more love and connection to our baby ❤️🥰.
Join my summer #hypnobirthing classes if you want to step into #childbirth and #parenting with calm, confidence, love and connection. Link is in my bio 😉

#mindfulpregnancy #mindfulness #birthingaffirmations #hypnobirthingaffirmations #phillyhypnobirthing

Import info about the #postpartum phase from @dr.avivaromm
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Mamas, let’s talk postpartum. 💗⁠
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If the days, weeks, and even months after giving birth feel impossibly hard—like maybe the hardest thing you’ve ever done—you’re not alone.⁠
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This is the single biggest physical, mental, and emotional shift you’ll EVER go through. It’s raw, messy, overwhelming, and yes, even beautiful. But that doesn’t make it less intense.⁠
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Here’s what no one really prepares you for:⁠
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💗 Night sweats that leave you drenched.⁠
💗 Body shakes that feel impossible to settle.⁠
💗 Accepting your body’s changes while still healing.⁠
💗 Wearing a pad for weeks as you move through postpartum bleeding (lochia).⁠
💗 Exhaustion that no amount of “sleep when the baby sleeps” advice can fix.⁠
💗 Postpartum cramps that feel like labor flashbacks—especially after your second baby or more.⁠
💗 Emotional highs and lows that take your breath away.⁠
💗 A sore or irritated perineum—especially if you’ve had stitches.⁠
💗 The guilt of not wanting visitors.⁠
💗 Insatiable hunger, especially if nursing.⁠
💗 Vaginal dryness from breastfeeding that no one told you about.⁠
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Sound familiar?⁠
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Here’s the thing: you’re not failing. You’re navigating matrescence—the process of becoming a mother. It’s a whole-body transformation, reshaping not just your hormones but your heart, mind, and identity.⁠
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Some days, it feels like too much (yes, I’ve been there—sobbing with frustration one minute, staring at my baby in awe the next). You’re learning to care for your little one while figuring out a new rhythm with your partner, older kids, and most of all, yourself.⁠
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💗 Give yourself time, space, and grace. Lean into your support system and trust your own strength. Even when it feels impossible, you’re doing it. It’s does get easier. And all of us mamas are here with you, every step of the way.⁠
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If you’re newly postpartum, what support do you need most? If you’ve been there, what words of wisdom would you share with a mama who could use them today? ⁠
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Let’s share the love.⁠
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xo Aviva

Repost from @themodern.doula
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Hit SAVE so you can come back to this one & follow @themodern.doula for everything pregnancy, birth & beyond!

Now, where are all my full term mama’s at?!

👇🏽👇🏽👇🏽

There are many signs your body will give you, both emotionally and physically, that labour is near. Some are very subtle and you might not realise until after they happen that they were all little twinges and signs that your body was getting ready and prepped for the main event!

Did you notice any of these signs? Let me know in the comments!

With my first, I had crazy vivid dreams of my nana who had passed telling me things would be okay the night before my waters broke. Then, with Lola, I had the sudden urge to entirely reorder the pantry the weekend before I went into labour… thankfully I had some help with that one (thanks mum!) 😂

✋ want to learn more about how you can prep for a positive birth? Get your hands on Birth Different - the 10 module self-paced birth course that covers all the essentials (without the fluff!)
👑 to learn more, comment QUEEN!

What a miracle it is 🥰.

Let’s focus on the positive as we prepare for the #birth of our baby!

Gear up for my May class starting April 29th and change your mindset for #birthing from fear to calm, worried to excited 💃.

Let’s do this ✅

Link is in my bio 😉.

#mindset #mindsetiseverything #calmbirth #hypnobirthing #hypnobirthingaffirmations #positiveaffirmation #positiveaffirmations #phillyhypnobirthing

📣SUMMER BABIES NEED SPRING CLASSES!

Who’s in??

Who is ready to learn…
✔️how to eliminate fear and tension during birth🙌
✔️how to have a smoother and calmer birth🙌
✔️ how your partner and birth team can better support you during labor🙌
✔️ how to connect deeper to your baby during pregnancy and beyond🙌
✔️how to prepare your mind and body for birth 🙌
✔️ how to TRANSFORM from anxious to calm and confident for the birth of your baby🙌
… AND MORE!

Set yourself up for success and have the birth you want!

Register in the link in my bio👆 or by visiting www.phillyhypnobirthing.com 👈.

I can’t wait to start this positive journey with you!

#childbirtheducation #hypnobirthingclasses #hypnobirthing #philly #phillymoms #phillyparents #phillyhypnobirthing

Reminder of this incredible process from @this_grand_voyage_
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✨Umbilical cord✨

When you baby is first born the umbilical cord will be blue and pulsing like a heart beat after a while when baby gets all that life boosting blood the cord goes limp like a noodle and turns white ... 🤍

“To clamp a baby’s cord early is to deny the baby of:

📌1/3 of the their blood volume
📌An increase of RBC’s by 60%
📌An additional 40 to 50mg/kg of iron
📌Better transition of life from the womb to world
📌Smooth exchange of oxygen into the blood
📌infusion of stem cells, which play an essential role in the development of the immune, respiratory, cardiovascular, and central nervous systems, among many other functions.
📌Less risk of needing resuscitation

Repost @lbreggy @dareallalucedoula via @badassmotherbirther
Video
@camilanevesfotografia

#umbilicalcord #choicesinchildbirth #birthmatters #newborn #birth #delayedcordclamping #peaceonearthbeginswithbirth #momtobe #pregnancy #newborn #laboranddelivery #childbirth #preggo #babyontheway #knowledgeispower #waitforwhite #lifebooster

Repost from @partumpanties
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Did you know that movement during labour isn’t just about comfort—it’s backed by science! 🌟
Studies show that walking and using stairs can help your baby descend, open up your pelvis, and even shorten labour by 1-2 hours.
According to research, women who move around during labour are more likely to experience a smoother and faster delivery. Moving around also helps you feel less over-observed and gives you a much-needed change of scenery so you don’t feel ‘stuck’ in your room. I always encourage my clients to go for a walk!

@birthconnectionaz

#pregnant #thirdtrimester #labourbirthprep #positivebirth #positivebirthtips #informedbirth #hospitalbirth #movementinlabour

A great #affirmation to be able to lean into trust and surrender. When we trust our team we can truly lean in and let go 🌊. That’s when the magic of #birth can happen 💫.

#positiveaffirmations #birthaffirmations #hypnobirthingaffirmations #phillyhypnobirthing #positivethinking #positivebirth #positivepregnancy

This should sound familiar to my #hypnobirthing moms😉! Thank you to @doclizziedpt for this great 🎥
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Can we really prevent it??

There is a lot we can do to prevent it yes! Or decrease severity. Evidence has shown this (keep reading below!!) But also know that sometimes we can do ALL the things and still tear, and that’s okay! There are a lot of factors that come into play.

Holding your breath and pushing with maximum force during labor can strain your pelvic floor and increase the risk of tearing. Instead, let’s focus on evidence-based strategies for a smoother birth:

🌬️ Breathe your baby down: Use deep, controlled breaths during pushing to reduce pressure on your pelvic floor and to work WITH your body. Holding our breath not only is extremely taxing, but it also can decrease the oxygen flow and even tense up the pelvic floor (the opposite of what we want during this time!)
 🤸‍♀️ Change positions: According to the latest evidence, upright or side-lying positions can ease baby’s descent and reduce perineal strain.
 🛑 Slow the crowning phase: I know this sounds like…excuse me…??? But I promise…this is a super important time to lean into your body and not force things!! Let baby stretch the perineum. Gentle guidance from your provider and perineal support during this stage can help minimize tearing.
 💆 Prepare in advance: Evidence tends to lean toward perineal massage from 34 weeks and pelvic floor exercises improve elasticity and control. Although this evidence was found mostly in first time vaginal births rather than subsequent vaginal births.

✨✨ Know that if you DO hold your breath because it feels right or you DID hold your breath…that’s okay! Birth is definitely a time to lean into what feels natural TO YOU. What I am sharing here is just the basic biomechanics of birth paired with the latest evidence on perineal support.

🚨 In MBC there is a full program on perineal tearing so you know exactly how to aid your healing and recovery optimally 🙏🏻

Let’s face it. Probably one of a #pregnantmom ‘s concern’s during labor is that the cord might be wrapped around baby’s neck. Did you know that this is actually more common than we know and baby is ok if this happens? Thank you for your post @nathanrileyobgyn
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“Ultimately, I had to have a c-section because the cord was around my baby’s neck”

Unfortunately, this is a line we feed couples to justify unnecessary c-sections.

Yes…maybe the tracing wasn’t great. Maybe the baby wasn’t making its way through the pelvis as quickly as they were hoping. And yes, maybe the baby truly was better off being delivered by cesarean. But let’s not automatically assume it was because of the nuchal cord. Perhaps the cascade of interventions just pushed the kiddo a little too hard…

I’m sorry if you were told this ❤️

#nuchalcord #cesarean #csection #emergencycsection #pregnancy #obgyn

Love this info from @bodyreadymethod 😁💃
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Stop bouncing for hours in hopes that it will bounce your baby right out of there! There are better ways to use your birth ball to get baby engaged in the pelvis and to get your pelvis more mobile.

(And honestly, all bouncing is doing is creating unnecessary pressure on the pelvic floor anyway.)

🔵 Hip shifts/pelvic shifts: We like making sure the pelvis has good range of motion and is comfortable with this rocking side to side movement because this will help SO much in labor

🔵 Pelvic circles: This move encourages baby to find their best and comfiest position, and helping them to get that chin tucked!

🔵 Pelvic tuck/untucks: Do I talk about pelvic tuck/untucks too much? Never! We love these. Again, we want to encourage a mobile and freely moving pelvis for comfort during pregnancy AND an easier time during labor

🔵 Lat release: Let’s get the tissues attaching your arm to your pelvis to release and make the most space for baby

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#thirdtrimester #birthpreparation #birthball #pregnancytips

I am fortunate to work with #expectingmoms who want to change the narrative of how they see and feel about their upcoming birth. The inspiration for this #affirmation is from a mom in one of my classes who had a previous traumatic birth and now wants to step into her next birth with a clean slate, even with positivity. So she created this #positiveaffirmation and I love it!

Every #childbirth is a new experience because each time we are different people. We have changed, our knowledge has grown, our babies are different, and maybe our preparation for this next birth is different. Therefore, we can trust that our experience will be different. 💯

#empoweredmom #positivepregnancy #positivemindset #positivebirth #birthingaffirmations #hypnobirthingaffirmations #phillyhypnobirthing

Love this reminder of all the wondrous healing properties of raw honey 🍯. Thank you for this post @littleyarrow
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A simple but powerful natural remedy for postbirth healing! Studies have shown that both Raw honey and Manuka honey are beneficial in repairing birth tears and wounds as well as c section incision sites.

It works by reducing inflammation and preventing infection due to its antibacterial priories. It also acts as a vulnerary to south and repair tissues.

Repost from @lizcrowlhere
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Said muscles, but meant muscle fibers - they shift to really increase propulsion strength 😆

The fatal ejection reflex is amazing!

Did you experience FER?

#fetalejectionrelex #childbirthpreparation #fearfullywonderfullymade

Babies are working hard during #pregnancy and #labor to make their way through your body. 🐣 Every surge we have helps baby navigate the space in our body to move into the perfect position for #birth .
Repeating this #positiveaffirmation reminds us to trust in the process of #laborandbirth . Baby knows what to do and is able to do what they need to do. It’s amazing 🤩.

#calmpregnancy #calmbirth #positiveaffirmations #mindfulpregnancy #birthingaffirmations #hypnobirthingaffirmations #phillyhypnobirthing

Congratulations to Binali and Vivek (from my July series) on welcoming their baby boy💙. These parents navigated birth beautifully and chose to have an epidural. I love their story because it shows that you can still have a beautiful HypnoBirthing birth and choose to have medication. Even with an epidural a #birthingmother needs to know how to navigate labor, stay relaxed and breathe and have a #positivemindset 🤩. HypnoBirthing tools can helpful in a medicated or unmedicated birth, in the hospital or out of the hospital birth. Whatever the baby’s birth journey is😎.

Hi Estee!
Meet our little bundle of joy, Aryan!

He was born on Sept 25th evening ✨
I had a good birthing experience, was in labor for 13 hours and after 25 minutes of pushing he arrived! We’re all doing well ❤️

I think the biggest benefit of HypnoBirthing class for me was that it helped me stay grounded in my body and stay connected with my son rather than focusing on the pain. I was afraid of painful birth coming into the class, but the breathing exercises and affirmations really helped shift my mindset and look at the birthing experience from a positive angle. Vivek was also armed with tools to help me and he felt empowered.

The surge breath helped me get through the beginning of labor really really well. Then I couldn’t take it and gave into getting an epidural but even then just focusing on my breath and reciting positive affirmations really really helped getting into the right mindset. Even during pushing, breathing and visualizing the baby coming out helped ease the pressure.

Thank you for all the resources you armed us with. It was a great class 😄

#empoweredbirth #loveyourbirth #hypnobirthing #hypnobirthingclass #phillyhypnobirthing

Wise words from Lindsay @bodyreadymethod
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🗣️ Moms, parents, families 🗣️

There is only room for one head in your pelvis and it is not yours. STOP OVERTHINKING IT during your birth and just MOVE.

(Share this with a pregnant friend who is overthinking their birth! 🚨)

Okay let’s talk about it 👇

When you feel safe and protected, your body will intuitively find the positions that you and your baby need as you do the birth dance together.

I have actually learned a TON by just going to lots of births and watching someone in their labor flow state intuitively find the space. First time or not - when you feel safe, when you have prepared in advance to have access to all your movements, your body knows what to do. Trust that. You are more powerful than you realize.

The Rock Through Theory is the idea that movement helps baby navigate the space. It is not always about making the space bigger, it’s just about movement helping baby wiggle on through!

The Body Ready Birth program is NOT about force feeding more birth positions into your brain. It is about OWNING them in your body. Think about the first time you rode a bike or tied a shoelace. You had to think of a lot of different things to make the task happen. Versus after a while, you don’t even consciously think about what you’re doing. You just do it.

THAT is the goal of Body Ready Birth. It’s all about helping you tap into your body’s innate ability to birth. ☀️

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#birthpreparation #birtheducation #birtheducator #bodyreadymethod #motionislotion

I had no trouble adding dates to my morning smoothies or as a late afternoon snack with cashew butter😋. Here are some of its benefits for #labor . Repost from @thelabormama
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Note the word “may”…I eat dates every time my, because IMO, why not?! But I don’t expect my body to go into labor until it wants to - you shouldn’t let anyone tell you differently.

Here’s your full downlow on dates ➡️ There’s decent evidence that shows that eating dates in your pregnancy, starting around 37 weeks or so and eating them for 20+ days might:

• shorten length of early stage of labor
• fewer cases of postpartum bleeding
• less need for labor induction or augmentation
• less need for vacuum assisted deliveries
• fewer long first and second stages of labor
• “riper” cervix
• less water breaking before labor

*3-4 of Medjool or 7-10 of the smaller types.

📌 Are you a diabetic or gestational diabetic? Check in with your nutritionist about eating them. Dates are actually lower-ish on the GI, but you’ll still want to know how they could impact you.

➡️ Also, always double check with your provider before you begin any sort of “natural” induction tool. Try your 36 appointment.

Did you eat dates? Will ya?

Yes you are 🌟. Spiritual wisdom that says our souls chose our parents before we were brought down into this world. Your baby chose you to be their parents. You are perfect for them 💕.

#positivethinking #positiveaffirmations #positivepregnancy #positiveparenting #birthingaffirmations #hypnobirthingaffirmations #phillyhypnobirthing

Yaaaassss!!! Softness is key! Release that tension🧘‍♀️

#positivethinking #positiveaffirmations #birthingaffirmations #hypnobirthingaffirmations #phillyhypnobirthing

Great visual from @mommy.labornurse
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Just a fun little visual! 🥝 ⁣⁠
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Follow @mommy.labornurse for more pregnancy and birth education! 🤰⁠
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And yes, I know baby’s head is bigger than that bagel 😆⁣⁠
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When you’re ten centimeters dilated, it’s actually more about your cervix disappearing, than the degree that it’s open. ❤️⁣⁠
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So yes, your cervix stretches to that bagel, but in doing that, it goes away so baby can pass through! 👶⁣⁠
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Or bodies are crazy/cool, aren’t they? 😜⁣⁠
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Tag a pregnant friend who you think would love my page in the comments! 🤰

Such helpful reminders … Repost from @holisticmama.dakota
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Who knew 💩 could be a good sign?? 👇🏼

When you feel that intense pressure, it often means your baby is on the way!

During labor, the sensation of needing to poop happens because the baby’s head is pressing on the rectum as it moves down the birth canal.

It’s a common feeling, and it’s actually a great sign that you’re progressing well!

Let’s talk about two important breathing techniques to help you through this stage:

✨ J-Breath:
Breathe in deeply, then slowly breathe out as if you’re blowing down a J-shaped path. This helps you stay calm and manage the intensity.

✨ Pant-Pant-Blow:
As the pressure builds, take two quick breaths (pant-pant) and then a longer blow. This keeps you from pushing too early and helps your body stay relaxed.

‼️ Also, pooping during birth is completely natural and nothing to be embarrassed about.

It’s a sign that your body is doing exactly what it needs to do to bring your baby into the world.

Want to learn more about managing labor and breathing techniques? 👇🏼

✅ Check out this week’s podcast episode and blog! Both linked in my bio.
~
OR
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COMMENT or DM ME “freebie” & I’ll send over my Holistic Mama Blueprint/ Water Birth Blueprint AND Fearless Birth Journal! ✨

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#pregnant #pregnancy #unmedicatedbirth #laboranddelivery #birthpreparation #birth

Last week we finished another series with another awesome group of #expectingparents . 👏

I love that they CHOSE to get educated and informed.
I love that they CHOSE to stay positive rather than negative about the journey of meeting their babies.
I love that they CHOSE to be empowered rather than submissive to someone else’s desires for their births.

I wish for them to continue learning and growing in life, to be connected to their families and to CHOOSE positivity, love and empowerment always. 🌟

#empoweredparents #hypnobirthing #phillyparents #phillyhypnobirthing

We can do hard things. It is temporary. It will pass.

#affirmationoftheday #positivethoughts #positivepregnancy #positivebirth #phillyhypnobirthing #hypnobirthingaffirmations #birthingaffirmations

Yes we need to talk about it! Repost from @happybirthsecrets
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We need to talk about this…

🤰After birth you can still look pregnant for some time.

⏰Because it takes time for your belly to recover from birth and your uterus hasn’t gone back down yet after doing its amazing work🥇

👶🏼Before I had my first daughter, I had no idea about this and it was a bit of a shock. I think I still looked pregnant for months afterwards with her.

👶🏼👶🏼After I had my second daughter, my female neighbour (who had kids and should have known better) came over and said “wow, you still look huuuuuge” and poked my belly. Way to make a new mum feel fab, hey?

👩🏼Everyone is different, but having a pregnant-looking belly for weeks following birth is normal for most women. So why isn’t it something we talk about more?

I feel like social media is showing this a little bit now, but our amazing bellies and what they do in pregnancy, labour and birth are definitely something we should celebrate! 🙌 🥳🎊

Drop a ❤️ in the comments if you agree!

💬COMMENT- if you’re pregnant, did you know this?

If you’ve birthed before, was this a shock to you?

💛FOLLOW ME💛 for all the stuff about birth no one tells you plus positive birth stories to help you prepare for a positive birth.

📹Amazing video by mama @isabizinotto

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#Postpartumbody #postpartum #pregnancy #pregnantbelly #afterbirth #birth #labour #unmedicatedbirth #naturalbirth #positivebirth

I am so happy for this amazing #hypnobirthing couple who wanted something different for their second #birth . They took my HypnoBirthing class and then waited VERY patiently for their baby girl to come. I visited their home to do a let’s- get-baby-out session (aka natural induction massage) and several days later they had their baby. 🐣

“Hi estee! Little Stevie Jo made her grand entrance on her big brother’s birthday this past Saturday! It was fast and furious! Once my waters broke she came in a little less than an hour with about 3 or so very effective J breath pushes! Recovery has been much better after a natural birth than with an epidural. It was a wonderful experience overall!! By the time contractions were at their strongest and with no break in between I do remember feeling like I couldn’t do it anymore but remembered that it was likely me transitioning and boom she was out in like 5 minutes after that feeling of wanting to give up. I am so grateful for your class and wealth of information. Alex was also a great birth partner especially considering how fast I progressed in the end, with the help of our doula as well. We’re just so happy she’s finally here and healthy ☺️”

Congratulations Alex and Alex (yes they both have the same name 😁)💐❤️

Ps- If you or someone you know is past their due date/approaching an induction and would rather avoid it or have it go smoothly, please have them reach out to me to do a session! Link in my bio 😉
#loveyourbirth #empoweredbirth #phillyhypnobirthing #naturalbirth

What a powerful #affirmation when things aren’t going as smoothly as we would like. We are learning, growing, evolving beings and nothing is final or permanent. The immediate #postpartum stage can be so intense and challenging and parenting in general can feel tough too. This affirmation is gold for all those moments we aren’t where we want to be or having the results we want.

So to all those #moms having a hard moment ,hang in there. Things will change. Patience is everything.

#postivethinking #positiveaffirmations #birthingaffirmations #phillyparents #phillyhypnobirthing

Taking time to rest and heal after #birth is so important . Here’s why- great video from @thelabormama !
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Ever heard about that “dinner plate” sized wound the placenta leaves behind when it comes away from the uterus after birth? It’s a VERY real thing.

A lot of people try to push back at this and say that the wound shrinks right away. And while its’s true that the actual size of the wound shrinks when the uterus shrinks (as it’s supposed to), the damage at that placental site (like tissue, vessels, etc.) needs weeks to “scab” over and heal. The time and healing your body needs does NOT shrink just because the uterus itself shrinks.

Often, an increase in your postpartum bleeding is because you’re doing TOO much and that placental wound site is irritated/bleeding again. If you notice this - LISTEN to your body. You NEED time to heal. Your bleeding is often the best way the body communicates with you.

I know that not everyone can rest the way they need too. I also know that some of us truly do feel good, and we get excited to do more again. But, even when you feel amazing, there is still A LOT going on inside, and your body will “talk” to you about it. Whatever your situation, whenever you can, try to pay attention to what that body is saying.

With my 3rd and 4th baby, I actively tried to do less in those first weeks and they were my best healing and the quickest resolution of my bleeding!

What do you think? Do you think rest did change your postpartum bleeding/healing (or would have)?

I used to not like this word. To me, it meant weakness, a white flag or the lack of being active in my journey. But now I know it means so much more.

To me it means having strength, wisdom, trust and inner calm. It means I know I did everything in my control and now it’s out of my hands.

With this #affirmation it means surrendering control, surrendering worries and fears. It means surrendering to the flow, surrendering to the wisdom of the universe. It means letting go of what is holding you back and stepping into abundance and magnificence.

Ultimately, to me, it means surrendering to receive.

What will you surrender?

#positiveaffirmations #birthingaffirmations #positivepregnancy #positivebirth #hypnobirthingaffirmations #phillyhypnobirthing

Reposting these good reminders from @blossomingbelliesbirth - love this reel 🤩
……..
Pushing tips to protect the perineum during #childbirth ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Simple but ➡️ effective and ➡️ research based ways to improve perineal and long-term pelvic floor health are often not what is common or conventional in #birth but it’s time to break that status quo.

For more #birtheducation that is individualized and research based, take an independent #birthclass and prep for an #empoweredbirth 🤰🏼🫃🏿🤰🏽🤰🏻🫄🏻

#yourbirthismeanttomoveyou #birthpreparation #birthprep #childbirtheducation #protecttheperineum #perinealhealth #postpartum #birthwithoutfear #labor #laboranddelivery

Amazing nutrition info reposted from @littleyarrow
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Did you know that vitamin D plays a crucial role in pregnancy? We want to ensure that our levels are optimal before conception and maintained during pregnancy.

Deficiency in Vitamin D is linked to complications such miscarriage (due to its role in immune modulation and inflammation), gestational diabetes (Vit D is important for insulin sensitivity) and preeclampsia (Vit d is importantly for blood pressure regulation) with researching showing that optimal vitamin D levels play a key role in the health of both mother and baby.

Want to learn more? My new pre conception care workshop will be landing soon. Watch this space 👀

One of the highlights of my week is being with amazing, growth mindset oriented #expecting parents. I am so lucky I get to work with such incredible people at such an awesome time in their lives.
Although not everyone in my June series is pictured here, I wish these folks a calm and confident #pregnancy and an #empowered birth.
This stage of life has been so transformative for these parents I can’t wait to hear what lies ahead!
Who else ready to be transformed? 😄
My next #hypnobirthing series starts July 24th. Link in my bio for more info and to register ✅.
#childbirthclass #phillybirthclass #philadelphia #phillyhypnobirthing

Probably the most popular #affirmation for folks in my #hypnobirthing class. Sometimes we just need to stop thinking, controlling and doing. Birth is that time. Trust and flow instead.
New #hypnobirthingclass beginning July 24. Link in bio to learn more how to trust your body and your baby and flow through #birth 😉👆.

#birthingaffirmations #peacefulpregnancy #peacefulbirth #mindfulness #mindfulpregnancy #calmbirth #phillyhypnobirthing

I am so excited to have my fall dates for you winter babies 👶 ❄️🥶! (Side note- can you believe we are thinking about winter and summer hasn’t even started? Craaaazy)
Come join the fun for this 5 week series and get
✔️ educated
✔️ prepared
✔️ calm
✔️ confident
✔️ and excited to meet your little one!

Link in bio to register 🥰.

#childbirtheducation #birthclass #philadelphia #hypnobirthingclass #phillyhypnobirthing

What a lovely event at the @riverhouseatodettes run by @phillyfamilymag to celebrate local businesses with their Love Awards. I loved seeing old friends @bornwithlovedoulas (always great catching up!) and making new friends. Bonus- a #hypnobirthing mom I taught 14 years ago came over to say hi and guess what, she is now a lactation consultant @breastassuredwithallison !

Thank you again to my community and the opportunity to share in this amazing journey with you❤️.

#networking #womensupportingwomen #phillyhypnobirthing

Love this 🎥 @mamastefit ! It is so important to move in ways to facilitate baby’s movement for #labor in pregnancy and birth. Check out some of these great moves 😉 . Plus let me know if any of these moves don’t feel right to you or if you want more ways to get your body ready for birth. I am here to help 👍😉.
.

Trying to get your baby to engage?? Here’s some movements you NEED to be able to do!!

⭐️ External hip rotation with abduction: wide knees
⭐️ Posterior pelvic tilt: rounding in the back

✍️ Comment PREP for our free birth prep circuit to help create more space in your pelvis and release tension in your pelvic floor!

📱 If you want daily workouts to keep you strong throughout your pregnancy AND prepare you for birth with pelvic opening exercises, join our online prenatal fitness programs!

💻 Explore our programs at MamasteFit.com/prenatal-support

#birthprep #prenatalworkout #pregnancyfitness

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@phillyhypnobirthing

What I Offer

HYPNOBIRTHING CHILDBIRTH PREPARATION CLASSES

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The Path to a Fantastic Birth!

Take this 5 week class to learn how to achieve a wonderful pregnancy and birth experience. In this comprehensive childbirth class, you will learn everything you need to know for birth including relaxation techniques to help you have a mindful, connected, and peaceful pregnancy. These tools will help you have a calm, confident and positive birth!

Classes are held in the Philadelphia area.

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Find a class!

POSTPARTUM DOULA SUPPORT

Mothering the Mother After Birth

After birth, all you want to do is get to know your baby, make sure feedings are going well, heal your body and stay rested. However, you still have responsibilities. Having a postpartum doula will let you enjoy the blissful time with your baby after birth and help you both settle in with less stress and

more joy.

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Body Ready Method Sessions

Get your body ready for birth in any trimester! Optimize your core, pelvic floor, reduce pregnancy related pain, and prep for an amazing birth and postpartum recovery.

Classes are 1:1 and are held via zoom or in-person.

Mahya Natural Induction Massage

Passed your due date or labor hasn't "kicked in" yet? Want to avoid a medical induction or a hospital birth? This unique and effective massage session, a blend of energy work, reflexology and acupuncture can help your body flow into labor, naturally!

Learn More!

“Estee helped me to completely re-frame the birthing experience. Before I took HypnoBirthing with her, my understanding of labor and birth was that it was difficult, long and painful. Estee turned my world upside down and prepared me for the most exciting day of my life by providing me with the motivation, self-confidence and inner strength to be in control of my birthing experience.”

Chana Colin