Pregnancy represents one of the most exciting moments in a woman’s life. Discovering that you are pregnant means changes and decisions are on the horizon. Many families begin researching baby products such as strollers, car seats and baby carriers before deciding which ones to purchase. One important decision that should also be made is selecting a birth support team. While all births are different and cannot be planned, having a team that supports your birth decisions can ease your mind during pregnancy and give you confidence and clarity during labor.
5 People that Should Make Up Your Birth Support Team
1–OBGYN/Midwife—It goes without saying that you will need to select an OGBYN or a midwife. Are you planning on having a natural birth? Do you want to change positions during labor? Do you feel comfortable with induction or an external cephalic version? Whether you gravitate towards the traditional medical model or the natural paradigm of health, it is important to seek out a birth provider that matches your ideals.
2–Doula—A doula is defined as “a woman who is trained to assist another woman during childbirth and who may provide support to the family after the baby is born.” A doula can provide advice and assistance during pregnancy, labor and after birth. The most important job of a doula is to aid mom through the birth process and provide comfort and assistance. If a question or problem arises, a certified doula can offer clarity and guidance as well as convey your birth plan to your birth provider and family.
Here are 3 doulas that I recommend in Charlotte:
Andrea Gerdes–completejoybirth@yahoo.com
Kira Figg—figgblossomdoula@gmail.com
Sarah Cowherd—sarahecowherd@gmail.com
3–Prenatal Massage—Utilizing massage therapy during pregnancy can help with a number of symptoms including pregnancy induced headaches, low back pain and sciatica. Prenatal massages offer a great alternative to over the counter medications since most women do not want to take medicine during pregnancy. I recommend Bellies and Babies in Charlotte. https://www.belliesandbabiesnc.com/
4–Supportive Partner—Having a supportive and informed partner can ease the uncertainty that comes with labor. Talk to your partner to see if he or she is aligned with your birth plan. By sharing the same ideals, a supportive partner can provide you with the confidence needed during labor so that you can focus on the birth process.
5–Webster Certified Prenatal Chiropractor—A Webster certified prenatal chiropractor can help reduce ailments that are common during pregnancy. A prenatal chiropractor will provide structural balance within your pelvis, spine, muscles, tendons and ligaments. A prenatal chiropractor most commonly helps ease low back pain, sciatica, round ligament pain, nausea and pubic symphysis pain. A webster certified chiropractor can also help provide the the best pelvic balance possible that often aids in the position of the baby (breeched presented turning head down) and speeds up labor and delivery. Check out https://www.activelifenc.com/conditions-we-treat/prenatal-chiropractor/ to learn more about prenatal chiropractors in Charlotte.