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People do not have the right to try and change your mind, whether intentionally or unintentionally.

Especially after a traumatic birth.

Your feelings are valid.

#birthtraumahealing #birthtrauma #birthstory #yegdoula

People do not have the right to try and change your mind, whether intentionally or unintentionally.

Especially after a traumatic birth.

Your feelings are valid.

#birthtraumahealing #birthtrauma #birthstory #yegdoula

𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗶𝘀 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗮 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗶𝗿 𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗮𝗹𝘀 𝗼𝗿 𝗯𝗲𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗰𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻. 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗶𝘀 𝗮 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗰𝗿𝘂𝗻𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗻𝘂𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿𝘀, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘀𝗲𝗲𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗹𝗼𝘀𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗶𝗿 𝗯𝗼𝘁𝘁𝗼𝗺 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲.

I opened my page today to a post by @thebreastfeedingmentor highlighting that @medela_uk_eu discontinued their bottle production a week ago. In the comments of her post marissa1046 said "[Obviously] we can just use other brands but [I] genuinely think this is just use of the psychology of marketing to give a reason as to why they're not long going to produce bottles." And I absolutely agree.

As a mom who almost stopped her breastfeeding journey at 2 weeks postpartum, this statement is 𝘕𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨. If you didn't know, I did everything I could when I was told to use formula because my baby wasn't thriving (2 IBCLCs, a LC, tripple feeding, a $300+ pump(s), hundreds in pump parts suggested by companies, herbs, medicine, sns(ystems), cookies and more), and nothing gave me milk.

I could do a whole opinion peice on the evils of formula companies, and those who make money off tired, over worked, unrepresented, unsupported mother's and lactating people during their infant feeding journey, but I won't.
What I will share goes back to the comment on Danielle's page: do not mistake big companies marketing claims to uphold certain ethical standards while they are actually prioritizing financial gain. This strategy pins people against one another, such as saying "breast is best or feeding is best" or working mom's vs SAHMs, etc. This stance tries to erase the true concerns behind infant feeding problems; withholding s_x education and human biology to children and young people, inadequate funding for anyone in their postpartum period, including infant loss, adopting and surrogate families, and companies lobbying government systems to create for-profit solutions to human experinces such as medication and mental health.

#breastisbest #fedisbest #informedisbest #choicesarebest #breastfeeding #chestfeeding #lactation #IBCLC #doula #postpartumdoula

𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗶𝘀 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗮 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗶𝗿 𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗮𝗹𝘀 𝗼𝗿 𝗯𝗲𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗰𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻. 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗶𝘀 𝗮 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗰𝗿𝘂𝗻𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗻𝘂𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿𝘀, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘀𝗲𝗲𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗹𝗼𝘀𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗶𝗿 𝗯𝗼𝘁𝘁𝗼𝗺 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲.

I opened my page today to a post by @thebreastfeedingmentor highlighting that @medela_uk_eu discontinued their bottle production a week ago. In the comments of her post marissa1046 said "[Obviously] we can just use other brands but [I] genuinely think this is just use of the psychology of marketing to give a reason as to why they're not long going to produce bottles." And I absolutely agree.

As a mom who almost stopped her breastfeeding journey at 2 weeks postpartum, this statement is 𝘕𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨. If you didn't know, I did everything I could when I was told to use formula because my baby wasn't thriving (2 IBCLCs, a LC, tripple feeding, a $300+ pump(s), hundreds in pump parts suggested by companies, herbs, medicine, sns(ystems), cookies and more), and nothing gave me milk.

I could do a whole opinion peice on the evils of formula companies, and those who make money off tired, over worked, unrepresented, unsupported mother's and lactating people during their infant feeding journey, but I won't.
What I will share goes back to the comment on Danielle's page: do not mistake big companies marketing claims to uphold certain ethical standards while they are actually prioritizing financial gain. This strategy pins people against one another, such as saying "breast is best or feeding is best" or working mom's vs SAHMs, etc. This stance tries to erase the true concerns behind infant feeding problems; withholding s_x education and human biology to children and young people, inadequate funding for anyone in their postpartum period, including infant loss, adopting and surrogate families, and companies lobbying government systems to create for-profit solutions to human experinces such as medication and mental health.

#breastisbest #fedisbest #informedisbest #choicesarebest #breastfeeding #chestfeeding #lactation #IBCLC #doula #postpartumdoula

My nervous system has been in overload. I can't not think of it. I can't not worry. I can't not pay attention. And so today, I sat in the garden listening to the wind chimes and birds. I felt the wet grass under my feet.
Sometimes, it's okay to be not okay, and just take a moment for your nervous system.

#mindfulness #mindfulmoment #garden #yegdoula #yeg

My nervous system has been in overload. I can't not think of it. I can't not worry. I can't not pay attention. And so today, I sat in the garden listening to the wind chimes and birds. I felt the wet grass under my feet.
Sometimes, it's okay to be not okay, and just take a moment for your nervous system.

#mindfulness #mindfulmoment #garden #yegdoula #yeg

I have no words, so I will share content from others, and some ways to be an ally, today and everyday

@auntie.beading
@sage.sisters
@lofttan
@jarisoftheprairies
@sandkcollective

https://www.rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca/eng/1524494530110/1557511412801
https://nwac.ca/donate
https://www.irsss.ca/donate
https://www.kihewawasiswakamik.com/

@nwac_canada
@irsssbc
@kihewawasiswakamik

#landback #indigenousdoulas #indigenous

I have no words, so I will share content from others, and some ways to be an ally, today and everyday

@auntie.beading
@sage.sisters
@lofttan
@jarisoftheprairies
@sandkcollective

https://www.rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca/eng/1524494530110/1557511412801
https://nwac.ca/donate
https://www.irsss.ca/donate
https://www.kihewawasiswakamik.com/

@nwac_canada
@irsssbc
@kihewawasiswakamik

#landback #indigenousdoulas #indigenous

Wild Roses is a common site around Turtle Island. and can also be found in Ukraine. The petals have been used in Slavic magic healing, as well as many other cultural practices as an aid in ward off evil, protective, and healing properties.

Wild Rose offers many medicinal benefits in both the rose hips and the petals, especially in pregnancy and postpartum. The petals are used to sooth sore throats, as well as offer a relaxing, uplifting effect on the nervous system, which can ease anxiety and insomnia. They also can be a huge support for the uterus as a uterine tonic regulating ones menstrual cycle and relieving menstrual pain.

Rose hips, which can be harvested later in the year, offer vitamin C A, E, essential fatty acids and are an antioxidant.

In my tea, I pefer to add roses fresh, and put them outside of the tea steeper to chew on them as I drink.

Happy foraging 🌸

#wildrose #trutleisland #foraging #healing #birthmagic #birthdoula #postpartumdoula #herbalisim

Wild Roses is a common site around Turtle Island. and can also be found in Ukraine. The petals have been used in Slavic magic healing, as well as many other cultural practices as an aid in ward off evil, protective, and healing properties.

Wild Rose offers many medicinal benefits in both the rose hips and the petals, especially in pregnancy and postpartum. The petals are used to sooth sore throats, as well as offer a relaxing, uplifting effect on the nervous system, which can ease anxiety and insomnia. They also can be a huge support for the uterus as a uterine tonic regulating ones menstrual cycle and relieving menstrual pain.

Rose hips, which can be harvested later in the year, offer vitamin C A, E, essential fatty acids and are an antioxidant.

In my tea, I pefer to add roses fresh, and put them outside of the tea steeper to chew on them as I drink.

Happy foraging 🌸

#wildrose #trutleisland #foraging #healing #birthmagic #birthdoula #postpartumdoula #herbalisim

This is the product of healing generational trauma.
This is a time in space I never want to forget.
This is the good stuff.

#mothersdaughter #goose #doula #doulababy

This is the product of healing generational trauma.
This is a time in space I never want to forget.
This is the good stuff.

#mothersdaughter #goose #doula #doulababy

Indigenous people exist every day. Not just in June. Not just in September.
Their moccasins are not our fashion statement,
And their regalia are not costumes.
There are many tribes, and they are not just in Canada but across Turtle Island and across the world.
They were put through a horrible holocaust in an attempt to assimilate and destroy them.

So, today, the day after Indigenous Peoplea Day and as June comes to an end, as allies, we need to remember that it is our duity to hold the governments accountable and stop the continued assult on their families and kin.

July 1st is the anniversary of the government of 1867, assigning a day for them to create atrocities on First Nations People.

July 4th is the anniversary of the government of 1776, assigning a day for them to create atrocities on First Nations People.

We can not wear orange and attend ceremonies of Indigenous ceremonies and sit back this July while enjoying fireworks and wearing red.

I call on the people of Canada and the United States to speak up about the injustices still happening today. I ask you to write to your representatives, to talk not only about the displacement of Indigenous people in Canada and the US, and their treatment of Mexicans being assulted and kidnapped in the USA, and but safety and landback for the Palestinian people.

I also call on Canadians to demand the newly appointed @markjcarney and the Liberals to finish what was started and follow through with the 94 Calls to Action, release the funds to continue with finding the lost children of Residential (Concentration) Schools and reorganize Jordan's Principal to continue to benifit Children in schools today.

Art by @emilykewageshig of @tiamiscihk

#indigenous #indigenouspeoplesday #indigenouspeoplesmonth #indigenousmidwives #indigenousdoulas #freepalestine

Indigenous people exist every day. Not just in June. Not just in September.
Their moccasins are not our fashion statement,
And their regalia are not costumes.
There are many tribes, and they are not just in Canada but across Turtle Island and across the world.
They were put through a horrible holocaust in an attempt to assimilate and destroy them.

So, today, the day after Indigenous Peoplea Day and as June comes to an end, as allies, we need to remember that it is our duity to hold the governments accountable and stop the continued assult on their families and kin.

July 1st is the anniversary of the government of 1867, assigning a day for them to create atrocities on First Nations People.

July 4th is the anniversary of the government of 1776, assigning a day for them to create atrocities on First Nations People.

We can not wear orange and attend ceremonies of Indigenous ceremonies and sit back this July while enjoying fireworks and wearing red.

I call on the people of Canada and the United States to speak up about the injustices still happening today. I ask you to write to your representatives, to talk not only about the displacement of Indigenous people in Canada and the US, and their treatment of Mexicans being assulted and kidnapped in the USA, and but safety and landback for the Palestinian people.

I also call on Canadians to demand the newly appointed @markjcarney and the Liberals to finish what was started and follow through with the 94 Calls to Action, release the funds to continue with finding the lost children of Residential (Concentration) Schools and reorganize Jordan's Principal to continue to benifit Children in schools today.

Art by @emilykewageshig of @tiamiscihk

#indigenous #indigenouspeoplesday #indigenouspeoplesmonth #indigenousmidwives #indigenousdoulas #freepalestine

Kupala Night is upon us, the Slavic celebration of the Solstice.

During this time, fire and water are balanced through the longest day and the shortest night of the year. This night is full of rituals and magic, especially if you find the Fern Flower, which only blooms on Kupala Night. If one finds the Fern Flower, it is said that person will be blessed with the ability to connect to ancestors, speak to animals, and the ability of abundant knowledge.

Art by @tijanadraws
Ukrainian Tarot cards from @flowerofthemagicfern

#kupala #slavicmagic #slavicbirth #solstice

Kupala Night is upon us, the Slavic celebration of the Solstice.

During this time, fire and water are balanced through the longest day and the shortest night of the year. This night is full of rituals and magic, especially if you find the Fern Flower, which only blooms on Kupala Night. If one finds the Fern Flower, it is said that person will be blessed with the ability to connect to ancestors, speak to animals, and the ability of abundant knowledge.

Art by @tijanadraws
Ukrainian Tarot cards from @flowerofthemagicfern

#kupala #slavicmagic #slavicbirth #solstice

To hold the archetype of a Father is to hold the world on your shoulders, and sometimes, it seems to go unseen. But we see you.
The active partner, who holds us all as we cry. Who uplifts our joy and sacrifices for the greater good of all of us.

Today, yesterday, and every day, I thank Creator, the Universe, God, that you choose us.

#fathersday #lovehim #daddy #zaddy #bestfriendsforever #douladad

To hold the archetype of a Father is to hold the world on your shoulders, and sometimes, it seems to go unseen. But we see you.
The active partner, who holds us all as we cry. Who uplifts our joy and sacrifices for the greater good of all of us.

Today, yesterday, and every day, I thank Creator, the Universe, God, that you choose us.

#fathersday #lovehim #daddy #zaddy #bestfriendsforever #douladad

A few weeks ago, the kids and I made candied lilacs, lilac sugar and lilac simple syrup, so on Sunday we made it into lemonade.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) lilac is used for cooling and detoxification.
In Slavic folklore, specifically told in Poland, finding a five petal flower is good luck and should be ate. It was also used as a blessing for the passage of both birth and death.

Lilac sugar: mix lilacs and white sugar, let sit for one week, mixing every few days

Lilac simple sugar:

Lilac lemonade: slice one lemon and place in a bowl. We muddled the lemon a bit before adding 1/4 to 1/3 of a cup of lilac sugar. Pour into a vessel with a lid to shake. Add 2 cups of cold water, and then shake and serve. Lilac syrup is a great way to add more flavor if the taste is not to your liking. Especially if to only mix 1/4 cup of sugar.

#lilac #herbalism #witchcraft

A few weeks ago, the kids and I made candied lilacs, lilac sugar and lilac simple syrup, so on Sunday we made it into lemonade.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) lilac is used for cooling and detoxification.
In Slavic folklore, specifically told in Poland, finding a five petal flower is good luck and should be ate. It was also used as a blessing for the passage of both birth and death.

Lilac sugar: mix lilacs and white sugar, let sit for one week, mixing every few days

Lilac simple sugar:

Lilac lemonade: slice one lemon and place in a bowl. We muddled the lemon a bit before adding 1/4 to 1/3 of a cup of lilac sugar. Pour into a vessel with a lid to shake. Add 2 cups of cold water, and then shake and serve. Lilac syrup is a great way to add more flavor if the taste is not to your liking. Especially if to only mix 1/4 cup of sugar.

#lilac #herbalism #witchcraft

It's hard to watch what is happening in LA as a bystander. It has been devastating to watch the Holocaust in Palenstine. The continued occupation on Indigenous Lands on Turtle Island and Hawaii is not being dealt with. As a proud Slavic Woman, I must speak up for Ukraine, despite the differences

going unseen, such as Ukrainians being predominantly white people being attacked by other White people.

The systematic occupation of each of these homes is becoming easier to see with technology and harder to watch.

It is undeniable. The abuse of Indigenous people on their own land is atrocious, and it is time to return their land.

Who did I miss? (And I know there is a lot.

#landback #unseededland #freepalestine

It's hard to watch what is happening in LA as a bystander. It has been devastating to watch the Holocaust in Palenstine. The continued occupation on Indigenous Lands on Turtle Island and Hawaii is not being dealt with. As a proud Slavic Woman, I must speak up for Ukraine, despite the differences

going unseen, such as Ukrainians being predominantly white people being attacked by other White people.

The systematic occupation of each of these homes is becoming easier to see with technology and harder to watch.

It is undeniable. The abuse of Indigenous people on their own land is atrocious, and it is time to return their land.

Who did I miss? (And I know there is a lot.

#landback #unseededland #freepalestine

Some people have been asking about my method for making dandelion crowns, so I made a lil video.

Dandelions are one of my favorite flowers

1) They're abundant and show up even when people try to tear them down or make them feel unwanted
2) They're reliable. You know they'll always shown up
3) They're represent the Sun, Moon, and Stars
4) Medicinally, they are incredibly useful from the petals to the roots
5) They're grant wishes and share dreams
6) They're the first flowers children share as a gift. No matter the age or the location. To a child, they are always worthy of using to show love and appreciation

#herbalism #magic #witchcraft #folklore

Some people have been asking about my method for making dandelion crowns, so I made a lil video.

Dandelions are one of my favorite flowers

1) They're abundant and show up even when people try to tear them down or make them feel unwanted
2) They're reliable. You know they'll always shown up
3) They're represent the Sun, Moon, and Stars
4) Medicinally, they are incredibly useful from the petals to the roots
5) They're grant wishes and share dreams
6) They're the first flowers children share as a gift. No matter the age or the location. To a child, they are always worthy of using to show love and appreciation

#herbalism #magic #witchcraft #folklore

One month, wrapped in a bow.
While the communities deserve to spend time celebrating their joy, the rest of us have work to do to keep these messages in the for front.

#indigenouspeoplesmonth #pridemonth #freepalestine

One month, wrapped in a bow.
While the communities deserve to spend time celebrating their joy, the rest of us have work to do to keep these messages in the for front.

#indigenouspeoplesmonth #pridemonth #freepalestine

157680000 seconds
43830 hours
1825 days
60 months
Five trips around the Sun

Because you, my girl, are worth all of my time.

Happy birthday to my sweet little Goose. I love you.

#birthdaygirl #bellybirth #second born #baby girl #midwifebaby

Words by @maryantoinettepoetry

157680000 seconds
43830 hours
1825 days
60 months
Five trips around the Sun

Because you, my girl, are worth all of my time.

Happy birthday to my sweet little Goose. I love you.

#birthdaygirl #bellybirth #second born #baby girl #midwifebaby

Words by @maryantoinettepoetry

Humans always want to fix things
Change things
Avoid things

But, sometimes, we just have to trust that Creator, God, the Universe, Divine Higher Power; that they made things certain ways, just because. It doesn't make them ugly or wrong. They are beautiful. Like a four leaf clover or a 5 petal lilac.

This double bloom dandelion bought me so much joy today.

#nature

Humans always want to fix things
Change things
Avoid things

But, sometimes, we just have to trust that Creator, God, the Universe, Divine Higher Power; that they made things certain ways, just because. It doesn't make them ugly or wrong. They are beautiful. Like a four leaf clover or a 5 petal lilac.

This double bloom dandelion bought me so much joy today.

#nature

Reposted from @its.themamaspace found through @birthworkersforhumanrights

In the perinatal world, we're always hearing things like "breast is best," which is often countered with "fed us best." This means that as long as the baby is fed and cared for-regardless of how-that's what matters.
Why isn't that same mentality being used when it comes to the starving children in Gaza? Why is the nutrition and health and safety of children only cared about when the children are from a specific country, of a specific race, with a specific religion? Y'all know what I'm talkin about.
And let's be clear-a well-fed Palestine is great, but a FREE Palestine is the goal.

Personal Note: We have to acknowledge that Women and children are disproportionately affected by the gen o side by Is R el. I want to share that not all pregnant people/ parents identify as mothers, so I would like to acknowledge that they, too, are affected by the conversation being brought up in this post by Its the Mama Space

#fedisbest breastfeeding #chestfeeding #makeitawkward #🍉 #freefree

Reposted from @its.themamaspace found through @birthworkersforhumanrights

In the perinatal world, we're always hearing things like "breast is best," which is often countered with "fed us best." This means that as long as the baby is fed and cared for-regardless of how-that's what matters.
Why isn't that same mentality being used when it comes to the starving children in Gaza? Why is the nutrition and health and safety of children only cared about when the children are from a specific country, of a specific race, with a specific religion? Y'all know what I'm talkin about.
And let's be clear-a well-fed Palestine is great, but a FREE Palestine is the goal.

Personal Note: We have to acknowledge that Women and children are disproportionately affected by the gen o side by Is R el. I want to share that not all pregnant people/ parents identify as mothers, so I would like to acknowledge that they, too, are affected by the conversation being brought up in this post by Its the Mama Space

#fedisbest breastfeeding #chestfeeding #makeitawkward #🍉 #freefree

You can not vilify something you can not control.
You can try to control all of the variables, and nature will still be nature.

The best thing we can do to prepare is
• Know the options
• Know Your rights
• Know Your team
• And Know Your inner self

#yegdoula #yegfamlies #doula #birthwork #mothernature #hosptialbirth #homebirth

You can not vilify something you can not control.
You can try to control all of the variables, and nature will still be nature.

The best thing we can do to prepare is
• Know the options
• Know Your rights
• Know Your team
• And Know Your inner self

#yegdoula #yegfamlies #doula #birthwork #mothernature #hosptialbirth #homebirth

There is a culture shift that needs to change, and I know it is Canada wide, as well as North America wide and worldwide.

Just because you walk into a hospital for your birth =/= consent to cohorse.
Just because you walk into a hospital for your birth =/= consent for medical assistance such as cervical checks, application of the heart monitors, or medical procedures. This includes episiotomies, having the medical professionals fingers in or around your babies head to "help" with delivery or applying an international fetal monitor
Just because you walk into a hospital for your birth =/= consent to the hospital staff over seeing procedures vs. your midwife offering medical support such as catheter application
Just because you walk into a hospital for your birth =/= that because you agreed once before (to be touched, assisted, or multimanaged) that the staff can do this again. Consent must be obtained consistently.

#midwifery #hosptialbirth #birthadvice #birthtraumahealing #yegdoulas #yegbirth

There is a culture shift that needs to change, and I know it is Canada wide, as well as North America wide and worldwide.

Just because you walk into a hospital for your birth =/= consent to cohorse.
Just because you walk into a hospital for your birth =/= consent for medical assistance such as cervical checks, application of the heart monitors, or medical procedures. This includes episiotomies, having the medical professionals fingers in or around your babies head to "help" with delivery or applying an international fetal monitor
Just because you walk into a hospital for your birth =/= consent to the hospital staff over seeing procedures vs. your midwife offering medical support such as catheter application
Just because you walk into a hospital for your birth =/= that because you agreed once before (to be touched, assisted, or multimanaged) that the staff can do this again. Consent must be obtained consistently.

#midwifery #hosptialbirth #birthadvice #birthtraumahealing #yegdoulas #yegbirth

It is all because of you two.
Thank you for choosing me. When we met, today, and everyday.

#mothersday #mother #capitalisticholiday #everydayismothersday

It is all because of you two.
Thank you for choosing me. When we met, today, and everyday.

#mothersday #mother #capitalisticholiday #everydayismothersday

OP: @birthworkforpalestine , @birthandwellbeingsupport , @theaandersonbirth, @birthworkersforhumanrights , @power.in.birth
, @mandy_the_scottish_doula
Go support and share their original post

Repost:

GAZA HAS RUN OUT OF FOOD

!! As birthworkers we support and promote the
importance of nourishment through pregnancy and birth

!! Antenatal classes and postpartum doulas will often
talk about the importance of rest and good nourishment
to heal and replenish the body

!! This is a luxury no longer affordable in Gaza

!! There IS NO FOOD left in the markets
There IS NO COMFORTABLE, SAFE PLACE to rest

!! There IS MALNUTRITION and STARVATION
There IS FEAR and PHSCHOLOGICAL TRAUMA

!! As birthworkers we must stand up for ALL BIRTHING PEOPLE and keep fighting for the families of Gaza

OP: @birthworkforpalestine , @birthandwellbeingsupport , @theaandersonbirth, @birthworkersforhumanrights , @power.in.birth
, @mandy_the_scottish_doula
Go support and share their original post

Repost:

GAZA HAS RUN OUT OF FOOD

!! As birthworkers we support and promote the
importance of nourishment through pregnancy and birth

!! Antenatal classes and postpartum doulas will often
talk about the importance of rest and good nourishment
to heal and replenish the body

!! This is a luxury no longer affordable in Gaza

!! There IS NO FOOD left in the markets
There IS NO COMFORTABLE, SAFE PLACE to rest

!! There IS MALNUTRITION and STARVATION
There IS FEAR and PHSCHOLOGICAL TRAUMA

!! As birthworkers we must stand up for ALL BIRTHING PEOPLE and keep fighting for the families of Gaza

Yesterday was International Day of the Midwife. While I loved my training with @birthingfromwithin and I'm thankful for each and every doula, nurse, and doctor who has supported doula families with me, I have learned the most valuable lessons from the midwives of my community.

So often, I hear many nurses and OBGYNs at the local hospitals tell me something can't be done, or I watch them micromanage the environment, body, and baby. But when I birth with Midwives, I come back to what birth is meant to look like.

▪︎ With consent
▪︎ With patience
▪︎ With compassion
▪︎ With quick responses for evidence based concerns

We balance one another with hands-on comfort measures, we collaborate on positions and thoughts, and we just hold space for one anothers specialties.

I want to share my deepest gratitude towards each and every midwife I have been so fortunate to work alongside with, and I look forward to working with the ones I have yet to be in birth spaces with

#internationaldayofthemidwife #midwifebaby #midwives #callthemidwife #yegdoula #yegmidwives

Yesterday was International Day of the Midwife. While I loved my training with @birthingfromwithin and I'm thankful for each and every doula, nurse, and doctor who has supported doula families with me, I have learned the most valuable lessons from the midwives of my community.

So often, I hear many nurses and OBGYNs at the local hospitals tell me something can't be done, or I watch them micromanage the environment, body, and baby. But when I birth with Midwives, I come back to what birth is meant to look like.

▪︎ With consent
▪︎ With patience
▪︎ With compassion
▪︎ With quick responses for evidence based concerns

We balance one another with hands-on comfort measures, we collaborate on positions and thoughts, and we just hold space for one anothers specialties.

I want to share my deepest gratitude towards each and every midwife I have been so fortunate to work alongside with, and I look forward to working with the ones I have yet to be in birth spaces with

#internationaldayofthemidwife #midwifebaby #midwives #callthemidwife #yegdoula #yegmidwives

Today is both the International Day of the Midwife, as well as National Day of Awareness for MMIWG&2S, which highlights the injustices and disproportionate statistics of Indigenous women, girls and 2 Spirit People going missing, as well as being harmed here on Turtle Island.

On Turtle Island, such as here in Canada, you can not celebrate International Day of the Midwife without placing Indigenous Midwives, Aunties, and Birthworkers in the front. In Alberta, midwifery is a privilege only afforded to a handful of people, but in many Indigenous communities, midwifery work is Medicine.

Hospitals in Alberta and across Canada are steeped in intersecrional Racism and are incredibly dangerous for Indigenous women and people to deliver in. Kokums, Aunties, and Indigenous Midwives offer more than birth work. They offer generational healing. Each and every missing Indigenous woman, child, and person is a baby to someone. Was someone's birth story. Is someone to care for.

So today, on the day to reflect on MMIWS2 I challenge you to

• Learn more about how the Canadian Govt withheld the rights of birthing Indigenous people
• Read the 94 Calls to Action for the Canadian Govt, write to your MP and help hold @markjcarney accountable to the requests not yet made
• Wear Red today, or buy a beaded red dress pin from an Indigenous Artist
• Watch Bring Her Home from Leya Hale, Voices Unheard from Native Hope, or listen to the various seasons of Stolen by @_connie_walker
• Donate to a cause such as @kihewawasiswakamik, @niwrc @nwac
• Talk to others about why Indigenous rights and healing are pivotal in the communities across Turtle Island
• Thank an Indigenous Midwife, Auntie, Kokum and/or Birthworker/doula for their contribution to using their medicine to heal their community

#MMIWS2 #mmiw #indigenousmidwives #abmidwives #homebirth #homebirthmidwives

Photo Credir: Baby Kaleo Joseph Gary Rabbitskin's, born in 2020 birth was the first time in 50 years a baby was born in Sturgeon Lake First Nation with traditional Cree birthing practices.
THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO-Norma Rabbitskin

Today is both the International Day of the Midwife, as well as National Day of Awareness for MMIWG&2S, which highlights the injustices and disproportionate statistics of Indigenous women, girls and 2 Spirit People going missing, as well as being harmed here on Turtle Island.

On Turtle Island, such as here in Canada, you can not celebrate International Day of the Midwife without placing Indigenous Midwives, Aunties, and Birthworkers in the front. In Alberta, midwifery is a privilege only afforded to a handful of people, but in many Indigenous communities, midwifery work is Medicine.

Hospitals in Alberta and across Canada are steeped in intersecrional Racism and are incredibly dangerous for Indigenous women and people to deliver in. Kokums, Aunties, and Indigenous Midwives offer more than birth work. They offer generational healing. Each and every missing Indigenous woman, child, and person is a baby to someone. Was someone's birth story. Is someone to care for.

So today, on the day to reflect on MMIWS2 I challenge you to

• Learn more about how the Canadian Govt withheld the rights of birthing Indigenous people
• Read the 94 Calls to Action for the Canadian Govt, write to your MP and help hold @markjcarney accountable to the requests not yet made
• Wear Red today, or buy a beaded red dress pin from an Indigenous Artist
• Watch Bring Her Home from Leya Hale, Voices Unheard from Native Hope, or listen to the various seasons of Stolen by @_connie_walker
• Donate to a cause such as @kihewawasiswakamik, @niwrc @nwac
• Talk to others about why Indigenous rights and healing are pivotal in the communities across Turtle Island
• Thank an Indigenous Midwife, Auntie, Kokum and/or Birthworker/doula for their contribution to using their medicine to heal their community

#MMIWS2 #mmiw #indigenousmidwives #abmidwives #homebirth #homebirthmidwives

Photo Credir: Baby Kaleo Joseph Gary Rabbitskin's, born in 2020 birth was the first time in 50 years a baby was born in Sturgeon Lake First Nation with traditional Cree birthing practices.
THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO-Norma Rabbitskin

Today is Bereved Mothers Day, and we can not talk about pregnancy, infant, and child loss without centering and discussing infant and child loss in Palestinian.

A total of 14,500 Palestinian children have been killed since the war started 4 years ago, with numbers growing daily.

March 18th, 2025, marked the largest one day attack since the beginning of the genocide, from Israeli airstrikes.

Art by @seemlystudios / @seemlyvintage
Flower art by @littlefarmhouseflowers

Donations to the Palestinian Relef Fund, plant an Olive Tree, or find links to write to your local government @freepalestineyeg

#palestinemothersday #palestine #freepalesti̇ne #palestinemothers

Today is Bereved Mothers Day, and we can not talk about pregnancy, infant, and child loss without centering and discussing infant and child loss in Palestinian.

A total of 14,500 Palestinian children have been killed since the war started 4 years ago, with numbers growing daily.

March 18th, 2025, marked the largest one day attack since the beginning of the genocide, from Israeli airstrikes.

Art by @seemlystudios / @seemlyvintage
Flower art by @littlefarmhouseflowers

Donations to the Palestinian Relef Fund, plant an Olive Tree, or find links to write to your local government @freepalestineyeg

#palestinemothersday #palestine #freepalesti̇ne #palestinemothers

I am my ancestors dreams and wishes.
The one who lives to tell.

Art by Maria Polyakova

#ukraine #slavicbirth #slavicart #breastfeeding #MariaPolyakova

I am my ancestors dreams and wishes.
The one who lives to tell.

Art by Maria Polyakova

#ukraine #slavicbirth #slavicart #breastfeeding #MariaPolyakova

It's important to remember one another during Cesarean Awareness month, that if you had a cesarean birth, your birth was absolutely valid.

Despite statistics highlighting that the path to cesareans can sometimes be due to mismanagement of medical advice and support, it isn't always the case. Whether the csection was because of baby being in a compromised position or from a cascade of interventions, your hard work before, during, and after your cesarean, your birth matters, and none of the story was due to anything you lacked, or did not do enough of.

#cesareanbirth #cesareanawarenessmonth #bellybirth #birthtrauma #birthtraumahealing

It's important to remember one another during Cesarean Awareness month, that if you had a cesarean birth, your birth was absolutely valid.

Despite statistics highlighting that the path to cesareans can sometimes be due to mismanagement of medical advice and support, it isn't always the case. Whether the csection was because of baby being in a compromised position or from a cascade of interventions, your hard work before, during, and after your cesarean, your birth matters, and none of the story was due to anything you lacked, or did not do enough of.

#cesareanbirth #cesareanawarenessmonth #bellybirth #birthtrauma #birthtraumahealing

They are never too young to make a difference.

🪶🪶🧡✊🏿✊🏾✊🏼⚖️🕊🧠🦋♾️🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️🍉🇨🇬🇺🇦🇸🇩🕐🕒🕐🕑📢

#everychildmatters #protecttranskids #antiracistparenting #autismawareness

They are never too young to make a difference.

🪶🪶🧡✊🏿✊🏾✊🏼⚖️🕊🧠🦋♾️🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️🍉🇨🇬🇺🇦🇸🇩🕐🕒🕐🕑📢

#everychildmatters #protecttranskids #antiracistparenting #autismawareness

I bring honey to every birth...

1) Some hospitals follow a rule based on Mendelssohns (1940) theory of bronchopulmonary response, called NPO. The therory is preventative care, in case someone needed surgery during labour under GA, and then threw up, and then suffered from aspiration from getting sick. While some people have debatable NPO for use during birth, most hospitals will allow clear fluids, and honey falls into this rule.

2) Honey has been used by Indigenous groups, such as in Iran, as a pain management tool. Because Western cultures love their studies and hate trusting Indigenous people, there was a small study conducted that found this to be true. During this study, they compared the use of honey vs. a placebo with labouring people, and results showed that .5 teaspoons of honey can substantially alleviate discomfort during birth.

3) I've personally noticed that people in labour do not have much of an appetite. However, labour is a physically demanding experience and is known to burn a lot of calories. Honey offers a small does of energy as a small snack and contains trace amounts of electrolytes, including sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium.

Now you know, before birth, throw a couple of honey sticks into your birth bag, this one was flavored blue raspberry.

#birth #evidencebasedbirth #ebb #doula #birthwork #yegbirth #yegparents #yegkids #yegbaby

I bring honey to every birth...

1) Some hospitals follow a rule based on Mendelssohns (1940) theory of bronchopulmonary response, called NPO. The therory is preventative care, in case someone needed surgery during labour under GA, and then threw up, and then suffered from aspiration from getting sick. While some people have debatable NPO for use during birth, most hospitals will allow clear fluids, and honey falls into this rule.

2) Honey has been used by Indigenous groups, such as in Iran, as a pain management tool. Because Western cultures love their studies and hate trusting Indigenous people, there was a small study conducted that found this to be true. During this study, they compared the use of honey vs. a placebo with labouring people, and results showed that .5 teaspoons of honey can substantially alleviate discomfort during birth.

3) I've personally noticed that people in labour do not have much of an appetite. However, labour is a physically demanding experience and is known to burn a lot of calories. Honey offers a small does of energy as a small snack and contains trace amounts of electrolytes, including sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium.

Now you know, before birth, throw a couple of honey sticks into your birth bag, this one was flavored blue raspberry.

#birth #evidencebasedbirth #ebb #doula #birthwork #yegbirth #yegparents #yegkids #yegbaby

There is still SO much work to do around social emotional literacy and building empathy. The comments on the Facebook version of this post are absolutely appauling and break my heart because

1) Many of the worst comments come from nurses
2) Comments did not focus on my story but my weight, my pronouns, and the fact I didn't disclose the entire story (which is posted consistently throughout my account, and really not anyone elses' business, but I digress)
3) Other Survivors of Birth Trauma, with various lived experinces, see this and feel unsafe to find help or talk to someone about their story.
4) Other Survivors of Birth Trauma, with various lived experinces, see this and do not feel safe to report their abuse or abusers

Thankfully, after 8 years of personal work, I'm not feeling triggered by the trolls, but I do have a challenge. If it feels like you need to call Survivors liars or gaslight their experience, reflect on why youre doing this, and what motivates you to have these feelings to bully others.

For those Survivors reading this, I see you, I believe you, and I believe in you.

#birthtrauma #birthtraumasurvivor #metoo #LDnurses #doula #birthdoula #birthworker ##yegbirth #yegfamily

There is still SO much work to do around social emotional literacy and building empathy. The comments on the Facebook version of this post are absolutely appauling and break my heart because

1) Many of the worst comments come from nurses
2) Comments did not focus on my story but my weight, my pronouns, and the fact I didn't disclose the entire story (which is posted consistently throughout my account, and really not anyone elses' business, but I digress)
3) Other Survivors of Birth Trauma, with various lived experinces, see this and feel unsafe to find help or talk to someone about their story.
4) Other Survivors of Birth Trauma, with various lived experinces, see this and do not feel safe to report their abuse or abusers

Thankfully, after 8 years of personal work, I'm not feeling triggered by the trolls, but I do have a challenge. If it feels like you need to call Survivors liars or gaslight their experience, reflect on why youre doing this, and what motivates you to have these feelings to bully others.

For those Survivors reading this, I see you, I believe you, and I believe in you.

#birthtrauma #birthtraumasurvivor #metoo #LDnurses #doula #birthdoula #birthworker ##yegbirth #yegfamily

She didn't know.
She couldn't.
She went to her appointment as prepared as she thought she could be and trusted herself to decline his suggestion to induce her.
Her baby was healthy.
She had no risks.

And yet, despite the contractions happening in the first photo, alongside her smile, his choice changed everything.

And, I hope she knows she didn't need to be assaulted, yelled at, and gaslit by him, to become a birthworker. She could have been the birth worker she is today and had a respectful, mother led birth.

But it didn't happen. She took that pressure and pain and turned it into something powerful and fierce, which shows up whenever someone who trusts her as their doula is being lied to, cohorsed or assaulted.

I'm sorry, Asha. You deserved better.

#birth #shedoesntknow #birthtrauma #cesareanawarenessmonth #cesareanbirth #birthtraumahealing #birthtraumadoula #hospitalabuse #obstetricabuse #yegbirth

She didn't know.
She couldn't.
She went to her appointment as prepared as she thought she could be and trusted herself to decline his suggestion to induce her.
Her baby was healthy.
She had no risks.

And yet, despite the contractions happening in the first photo, alongside her smile, his choice changed everything.

And, I hope she knows she didn't need to be assaulted, yelled at, and gaslit by him, to become a birthworker. She could have been the birth worker she is today and had a respectful, mother led birth.

But it didn't happen. She took that pressure and pain and turned it into something powerful and fierce, which shows up whenever someone who trusts her as their doula is being lied to, cohorsed or assaulted.

I'm sorry, Asha. You deserved better.

#birth #shedoesntknow #birthtrauma #cesareanawarenessmonth #cesareanbirth #birthtraumahealing #birthtraumadoula #hospitalabuse #obstetricabuse #yegbirth

Based on research in the US and UK, we know that Women of Colour are much more at risk of abuse and death due to complications during pregnancy and birth, but Canada collects none. In parallel to the lack of data, it also creates a lack of accessibility for BIPOC people to connect with care professionals who come from their communities, or move through the challenges they've been a part of.

www.meshofmothers.ca has launched a new nationwidee database of professionals from the Black, Indigenous, and People of the Global Majority community for those on their fertility, menstruation, pregnancy, postpartum, and parenting journey. This includes professionals in and around Edmonton. In Edmonton/amiskwacîwâskahikan we have three Black Midwives, @midwifeola @thekawsaryassin and Bola Oyewole and only a few active Black doulas, including @holisticdoulahaven, @goldeneggyeg and @shyainerebecca_doula

Today, I was humbled to be invited to celebrate the launch of @bipoc_maternal_professionals with @meshofmothersfoundation and look forward to the amazing community they have built reaching new heights.

#meshofmothers #mom #bipocowned #blackmaternalhealthweek #blackownedbusiness #yegfamlies #yegfamlies

Based on research in the US and UK, we know that Women of Colour are much more at risk of abuse and death due to complications during pregnancy and birth, but Canada collects none. In parallel to the lack of data, it also creates a lack of accessibility for BIPOC people to connect with care professionals who come from their communities, or move through the challenges they've been a part of.

www.meshofmothers.ca has launched a new nationwidee database of professionals from the Black, Indigenous, and People of the Global Majority community for those on their fertility, menstruation, pregnancy, postpartum, and parenting journey. This includes professionals in and around Edmonton. In Edmonton/amiskwacîwâskahikan we have three Black Midwives, @midwifeola @thekawsaryassin and Bola Oyewole and only a few active Black doulas, including @holisticdoulahaven, @goldeneggyeg and @shyainerebecca_doula

Today, I was humbled to be invited to celebrate the launch of @bipoc_maternal_professionals with @meshofmothersfoundation and look forward to the amazing community they have built reaching new heights.

#meshofmothers #mom #bipocowned #blackmaternalhealthweek #blackownedbusiness #yegfamlies #yegfamlies

There is a huge lack of information for birth professionals around best practices to support Autistic people during their fertility journey into pregnancy and postpartum. In the end, they want what most people would want in their birth story; respect, validation, safety and autonomy.

#worldautismawarenessday #nerurodivergentbirth #ASD #birthtraumahealing #doula #yegbirthworker #yegparents #yegbabies

There is a huge lack of information for birth professionals around best practices to support Autistic people during their fertility journey into pregnancy and postpartum. In the end, they want what most people would want in their birth story; respect, validation, safety and autonomy.

#worldautismawarenessday #nerurodivergentbirth #ASD #birthtraumahealing #doula #yegbirthworker #yegparents #yegbabies

Not just for today.
Visibility & Joy every day.
For the mama's, papa's, mapa's and beyond. For the babys, their kids, and more.

Photographer: @homemadefamilyalbum
@ifimanifest
@rozjova33
@heathen_machinery

#protectfamilies #tdov #transyeg #transdayofvisibity #protecttranskids

Not just for today.
Visibility & Joy every day.
For the mama's, papa's, mapa's and beyond. For the babys, their kids, and more.

Photographer: @homemadefamilyalbum
@ifimanifest
@rozjova33
@heathen_machinery

#protectfamilies #tdov #transyeg #transdayofvisibity #protecttranskids

I know one thing to be true.

Creator, the Universe, my Higher Power, and Mother Nature will always be there for me.

#grounding #earthing #mothernature #mindfulness #forestbathing #yoga #jasper

I know one thing to be true.

Creator, the Universe, my Higher Power, and Mother Nature will always be there for me.

#grounding #earthing #mothernature #mindfulness #forestbathing #yoga #jasper

Wear all of the babies ❤️

#slavicbirth #slavaukraine #babywearing

Wear all of the babies ❤️

#slavicbirth #slavaukraine #babywearing

IYKY...
Sometimes, those second time births are unpredictable, and such a rush.

#doulalife #yegbirth #midwifebirth #homebirth #hosptialbirth #birthmatters

IYKY...
Sometimes, those second time births are unpredictable, and such a rush.

#doulalife #yegbirth #midwifebirth #homebirth #hosptialbirth #birthmatters

When I delivered my son, there was a trauma there I couldn't describe, even before I went into labour. As my birth, postpartum, and parenting experiences have unfolded, I have begun to understand that the traumas of my birth were woven into the tapestry of my genetics long before I was even earthside.
My baba passed away when I was very young, and my grandma doesn't have much to share about her birth because "ladies don't share those details". My mother was delivered during a twilight sleep.

As I am moving deeper into the depths of my ancestors' birth songs, I have learned that there are none, because my family lineage is heavily rooted in the colonization of Slavic peoples' oppression; WWI, WW2, the Soviet Union, and now the war from Russia. In Eastern Europe, Ukrainian people have been stripped of their traditions over and over and resold a Christian version.

Do not talk about birth.
Do not tell people you're pregnant.
Work until you deliver.
Hide until you're "clean."
Do not show anyone the baby until they’re baptized.
Beware the evil eye.

I do not know my culture's birth traditions because no one felt safe enough to pass them down, and so, for my lineage, the traditions died.

This matters today, to me, as @worldbirthworkerweek leads our community through traditions and community gatherings around postpartum, sharing the gifts of the Indigenous communities across the world still practicing and protecting what is theirs.

We need to circle around these communities to make space so they can safely continue these practices. Because when our traditions die, our children can not know what those before them held so deeply. Our children need us to take this seriously.

This is a huge thread in why my Birthwork looks as it does, because one day, when my children are grown and they have their own babies, or are present for their families to have babies, I dream to be the elder who can bring tradition and healing back into our souls.

#worlddoulaweek #worldbirthworkerweek #ukrainianbirthtraditions #slavaukraine #slavicmagic #slavicbirth

When I delivered my son, there was a trauma there I couldn't describe, even before I went into labour. As my birth, postpartum, and parenting experiences have unfolded, I have begun to understand that the traumas of my birth were woven into the tapestry of my genetics long before I was even earthside.
My baba passed away when I was very young, and my grandma doesn't have much to share about her birth because "ladies don't share those details". My mother was delivered during a twilight sleep.

As I am moving deeper into the depths of my ancestors' birth songs, I have learned that there are none, because my family lineage is heavily rooted in the colonization of Slavic peoples' oppression; WWI, WW2, the Soviet Union, and now the war from Russia. In Eastern Europe, Ukrainian people have been stripped of their traditions over and over and resold a Christian version.

Do not talk about birth.
Do not tell people you're pregnant.
Work until you deliver.
Hide until you're "clean."
Do not show anyone the baby until they’re baptized.
Beware the evil eye.

I do not know my culture's birth traditions because no one felt safe enough to pass them down, and so, for my lineage, the traditions died.

This matters today, to me, as @worldbirthworkerweek leads our community through traditions and community gatherings around postpartum, sharing the gifts of the Indigenous communities across the world still practicing and protecting what is theirs.

We need to circle around these communities to make space so they can safely continue these practices. Because when our traditions die, our children can not know what those before them held so deeply. Our children need us to take this seriously.

This is a huge thread in why my Birthwork looks as it does, because one day, when my children are grown and they have their own babies, or are present for their families to have babies, I dream to be the elder who can bring tradition and healing back into our souls.

#worlddoulaweek #worldbirthworkerweek #ukrainianbirthtraditions #slavaukraine #slavicmagic #slavicbirth

Before there were companies owned by women selling birth.

Before there were certification boards holding birth attendants accountable to the hospital systems.

Before there were doulas, there was community.

Your doulas were your neighbors with multiple children. Your doula was your auntie, cousin, and sister.
Your doula was the healer, apprenticing as the next midwife.

Doulas were never meant to be for sale.

Our wisdom, compassion, and magic were always too big to be owned. We trusted the midwives and the care providers because we were the sprinkles of the birth experience. Not to change the trajectory but to listen and hold space for the labouring persons' rite of passage through birth.

Today I celebrate the aunties, sisters, cousins, and friends, who set the path for doulas of this generation. The birthworkers who show up like family. The birth attendants who hold space for labouring people like best friends.

Happy World Doula/Birth Worker week.

Unfortunately I do not know who this artist is, so PLEASE share if you know so I can tag them.

#worlddoulaweek #doula #birthattendant #yegdoula #yegbirthworker

Before there were companies owned by women selling birth.

Before there were certification boards holding birth attendants accountable to the hospital systems.

Before there were doulas, there was community.

Your doulas were your neighbors with multiple children. Your doula was your auntie, cousin, and sister.
Your doula was the healer, apprenticing as the next midwife.

Doulas were never meant to be for sale.

Our wisdom, compassion, and magic were always too big to be owned. We trusted the midwives and the care providers because we were the sprinkles of the birth experience. Not to change the trajectory but to listen and hold space for the labouring persons' rite of passage through birth.

Today I celebrate the aunties, sisters, cousins, and friends, who set the path for doulas of this generation. The birthworkers who show up like family. The birth attendants who hold space for labouring people like best friends.

Happy World Doula/Birth Worker week.

Unfortunately I do not know who this artist is, so PLEASE share if you know so I can tag them.

#worlddoulaweek #doula #birthattendant #yegdoula #yegbirthworker

A few years ago I was let go of as someone's doula.
It was my first and only time. They texted me 61 days before their due date. I was so scared they lost the baby, however...

They had seen a post i shared of a 👮🏻 throwing a local petite, house less Indigenous woman to the ground on the street. I shared the video with a warning of police brutality. They were employed by our local police station.

I cried. I had never been released of my duties and wondered if I should keep politics off of mydoula page.
My partner reminded me that those people are not my people. My Birthwork is led by social justice, equity, and inclusion. With transparency for pregnant people and postpartum folks to use advocacy and demand informed decision making. To help those with traumas before, during and after birth, which reduces triggers and is nervous system informed.

If it means I am only contracted by a handful of people, so be it. Birth is justice. Parenting is Justice. Abortion rights are justice. I am a birthworker for Justice.

#decolonizebirth #birthisjustice #birthtraumahealing #yegdoula #birthdoula #yegfamily #yegbirthworker

A few years ago I was let go of as someone's doula.
It was my first and only time. They texted me 61 days before their due date. I was so scared they lost the baby, however...

They had seen a post i shared of a 👮🏻 throwing a local petite, house less Indigenous woman to the ground on the street. I shared the video with a warning of police brutality. They were employed by our local police station.

I cried. I had never been released of my duties and wondered if I should keep politics off of mydoula page.
My partner reminded me that those people are not my people. My Birthwork is led by social justice, equity, and inclusion. With transparency for pregnant people and postpartum folks to use advocacy and demand informed decision making. To help those with traumas before, during and after birth, which reduces triggers and is nervous system informed.

If it means I am only contracted by a handful of people, so be it. Birth is justice. Parenting is Justice. Abortion rights are justice. I am a birthworker for Justice.

#decolonizebirth #birthisjustice #birthtraumahealing #yegdoula #birthdoula #yegfamily #yegbirthworker

Remembering the days they were little feels like forever ago. Her smell, her skin, her little nose, and toes. Baby wearing got me through the highs and lows, and the contact naps.

#somedaysarehard #postpartumisforever #babywearing

Remembering the days they were little feels like forever ago. Her smell, her skin, her little nose, and toes. Baby wearing got me through the highs and lows, and the contact naps.

#somedaysarehard #postpartumisforever #babywearing

Teaching prenatal yoga is a my happy place because i get to chat anatomy, birth prep, and comfort measures while sharing joy in movement and being mindful.

However, if you ever took a class with me or do and choose not to come back, I hope you do these seven poses!

But if you do want to move with me, join me Tuesday night at @nestinwellness from 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

#yegyoga #yogaeverydamnday #prenantalyoga #birthprep #birthadvice #doula #yegdoula #yegbirth

Teaching prenatal yoga is a my happy place because i get to chat anatomy, birth prep, and comfort measures while sharing joy in movement and being mindful.

However, if you ever took a class with me or do and choose not to come back, I hope you do these seven poses!

But if you do want to move with me, join me Tuesday night at @nestinwellness from 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

#yegyoga #yogaeverydamnday #prenantalyoga #birthprep #birthadvice #doula #yegdoula #yegbirth

Birth is exhausting. When people are in early labour and check in with me, the most important advice I can share with them is sleep while you can.

Labour sleep is not the same as the sleep we are accustomed to, though, so many people give up too soon. There's also that wild adrenaline of excitement mixed with the stories we gather in pregnancy of move move move.

During labour, I see sleep commonly within three stages of labour

Early labour - when the uterus slows down from moving baby into a desirable spot. This can be as short as 15 minutes or longer with small contraction peeking through. This is most common after uncontrollable back labour as the uterus has just worked really hard to move baby past the spine.

Between active labour and transitioning, again after the uterus has worked very hard to get baby into a new space.

Before pushing in order to regain strength and repair before pushing baby earth side.

It can sometimes be wild to see a labouring person go from a primal space of movement and moaning to a liminal space in rest, sometimes even snoring.

Did you get a chance to rest or sleep during your labour?

Photo take by me, shared with consent.

#birth #labour #doula #birthdoula #yegdoula #yegbirthworker #birthingfromwithin

Birth is exhausting. When people are in early labour and check in with me, the most important advice I can share with them is sleep while you can.

Labour sleep is not the same as the sleep we are accustomed to, though, so many people give up too soon. There's also that wild adrenaline of excitement mixed with the stories we gather in pregnancy of move move move.

During labour, I see sleep commonly within three stages of labour

Early labour - when the uterus slows down from moving baby into a desirable spot. This can be as short as 15 minutes or longer with small contraction peeking through. This is most common after uncontrollable back labour as the uterus has just worked really hard to move baby past the spine.

Between active labour and transitioning, again after the uterus has worked very hard to get baby into a new space.

Before pushing in order to regain strength and repair before pushing baby earth side.

It can sometimes be wild to see a labouring person go from a primal space of movement and moaning to a liminal space in rest, sometimes even snoring.

Did you get a chance to rest or sleep during your labour?

Photo take by me, shared with consent.

#birth #labour #doula #birthdoula #yegdoula #yegbirthworker #birthingfromwithin

Where do I start...

Children needing educational assistants being left behind and under supported
Clients are not getting medical providers because all of the OBs, GPs, and midwives are over capacity
The cuts to @sacetalks
Laws being passed to make gender affirming care inaccessible
Our PM flying to Florida to play with racist, sexist TERFs...
America.... full stop
And probably indigestion...

I'm at my capacity

#notmypremier #abhealth

Where do I start...

Children needing educational assistants being left behind and under supported
Clients are not getting medical providers because all of the OBs, GPs, and midwives are over capacity
The cuts to @sacetalks
Laws being passed to make gender affirming care inaccessible
Our PM flying to Florida to play with racist, sexist TERFs...
America.... full stop
And probably indigestion...

I'm at my capacity

#notmypremier #abhealth

◇ International Women's Day is as much as protest as a celebration ◇

Being a woman, in the ways in which I embody my womanhood, feminism and divine, is a privilege.
I celebrate all of the women before me who broke down walls so I may pass through.
I celebrate the women who stand with and around me.
I am humbled that I can use this power, which I have inherited, to vote, protest, and use as a leader and educator.

I celebrate International Women's Day as a mother of a daughter. This space we live in is safe for her and continues to be a space where she can go wherever she pleases and she can be whomever she wants. I will fight so she can continue to have this.

However, I recognize that her and I have privileges afforded to us that are not accessible or safe for others. And until our friends and sisters are free, no one is free.

There are women in Palenstine, Congo, Sudan, Ukraine, and beyond who are not safe. Who are fighting for the safety and sovereignty of the women and daughters of their community.

On Turtle Island in Canada and the US, there are Indigenous Women and Girls who are fighting for not only their rights but their lives.
Morgan Harris, Marcedes Myran, Rebecca Contois and a yet-to-be identified Buffalo Woman are women who deserve to celebrate International Women's Day.
Emily Pike deserves to be celebrating International Women's Day.

So Stand Up, Celebrate. But also, fight and scream that until there is justice for all, there is no justice for any.

Art 🎨 @miaohki

#saytheirname #Internationalwomensday #mmiw #MMIWS2 #birthjustice #women's justice #Internationalwomensday

◇ International Women's Day is as much as protest as a celebration ◇

Being a woman, in the ways in which I embody my womanhood, feminism and divine, is a privilege.
I celebrate all of the women before me who broke down walls so I may pass through.
I celebrate the women who stand with and around me.
I am humbled that I can use this power, which I have inherited, to vote, protest, and use as a leader and educator.

I celebrate International Women's Day as a mother of a daughter. This space we live in is safe for her and continues to be a space where she can go wherever she pleases and she can be whomever she wants. I will fight so she can continue to have this.

However, I recognize that her and I have privileges afforded to us that are not accessible or safe for others. And until our friends and sisters are free, no one is free.

There are women in Palenstine, Congo, Sudan, Ukraine, and beyond who are not safe. Who are fighting for the safety and sovereignty of the women and daughters of their community.

On Turtle Island in Canada and the US, there are Indigenous Women and Girls who are fighting for not only their rights but their lives.
Morgan Harris, Marcedes Myran, Rebecca Contois and a yet-to-be identified Buffalo Woman are women who deserve to celebrate International Women's Day.
Emily Pike deserves to be celebrating International Women's Day.

So Stand Up, Celebrate. But also, fight and scream that until there is justice for all, there is no justice for any.

Art 🎨 @miaohki

#saytheirname #Internationalwomensday #mmiw #MMIWS2 #birthjustice #women's justice #Internationalwomensday

Induction and augmentation for birth is not for everyone. While there are appropriate reasons for people to consent to either options during pregnancy or labour, if there is no risk to baby or a pregnant person, it's absolutely acceptable for a them to decline.
But then what?

1) I love when a local midwife rolls in with a pump for human milk (I say midwife with my whole chest because I only see midwives use them). Research has shown that not only is breast/chest/nipple stimulation a safe and beneficial method of support but has also been shown to reduce hemorrhaging in postpartum (PMID: 16034897)

2) Collecting colostrum when available is the best insurance plan. Nipple stimulation + liquid gold, and you can not go wrong. But please remember, if you do not produce colostrum when you try this, it does not mean you won't make milk 💛

3) Natural oxytocin is a wild drug. The best benefit of Endogenous oxytocin vs Synthetic is it can cross the brain blood barrier, which is a fancy way of saying it can both bring on contractions as well as the protective system to help move you through contraction surges.

4) Birth workers will tell you what gets baby in gets baby out. While intimacy, including sperm can increase oxytocin, tightening of the uterus and prostaglandins from the swimmers, there is also some wild data around self pleasure.

5) This one is an invitation to learn more. I had the opportunity to attend a workshop with @jenatkisson and @bundlebirthnurses to learn more about the magic of stopping an induction for now, or turning pitocin off (when appropriate, with the support of your medical supports). I hope it becomes something more hospital providers learn about, so labouring people can go sleep in their own beds and try again tomorrow.

How did you get labour going?!

#birth #labourdoula #doula #yegdoula #yegbirth #yegkids

Induction and augmentation for birth is not for everyone. While there are appropriate reasons for people to consent to either options during pregnancy or labour, if there is no risk to baby or a pregnant person, it's absolutely acceptable for a them to decline.
But then what?

1) I love when a local midwife rolls in with a pump for human milk (I say midwife with my whole chest because I only see midwives use them). Research has shown that not only is breast/chest/nipple stimulation a safe and beneficial method of support but has also been shown to reduce hemorrhaging in postpartum (PMID: 16034897)

2) Collecting colostrum when available is the best insurance plan. Nipple stimulation + liquid gold, and you can not go wrong. But please remember, if you do not produce colostrum when you try this, it does not mean you won't make milk 💛

3) Natural oxytocin is a wild drug. The best benefit of Endogenous oxytocin vs Synthetic is it can cross the brain blood barrier, which is a fancy way of saying it can both bring on contractions as well as the protective system to help move you through contraction surges.

4) Birth workers will tell you what gets baby in gets baby out. While intimacy, including sperm can increase oxytocin, tightening of the uterus and prostaglandins from the swimmers, there is also some wild data around self pleasure.

5) This one is an invitation to learn more. I had the opportunity to attend a workshop with @jenatkisson and @bundlebirthnurses to learn more about the magic of stopping an induction for now, or turning pitocin off (when appropriate, with the support of your medical supports). I hope it becomes something more hospital providers learn about, so labouring people can go sleep in their own beds and try again tomorrow.

How did you get labour going?!

#birth #labourdoula #doula #yegdoula #yegbirth #yegkids

There just are no words.
I've been trying for days to write words of hope or wisdom for fellow Birth Trauma Survivors. Anything to express myself to share the parelles of love and loss, gratitude and grief, the want to never forget and the wish to stop the flashbacks.

To make it worse, I can not find the video my doula took of me meeting my son for the first time when I woke up after surgery. That was a swift blow to the gut. It's the only moment of joy I saw, as I called for him and got my first skin to skin moment. It's gone. Maybe forever.

I'm sorry, Asha. I feel like I let you down. Please forgive me.

#birthtrauma #obstetricabuse #cesareanbirth #birthday #doula #yegdoula

There just are no words.
I've been trying for days to write words of hope or wisdom for fellow Birth Trauma Survivors. Anything to express myself to share the parelles of love and loss, gratitude and grief, the want to never forget and the wish to stop the flashbacks.

To make it worse, I can not find the video my doula took of me meeting my son for the first time when I woke up after surgery. That was a swift blow to the gut. It's the only moment of joy I saw, as I called for him and got my first skin to skin moment. It's gone. Maybe forever.

I'm sorry, Asha. I feel like I let you down. Please forgive me.

#birthtrauma #obstetricabuse #cesareanbirth #birthday #doula #yegdoula

Let this sink in.
It hit me hard.
I have worked in Early Childhood Development for over two decades, and the concept of child development beginning at birth does not get enough attention.

Birth is sacred.
Postpartum is sacred.
Infant development is sacred.
Early Childhood Development is sacred.
Our children are sacred.
Our future is sacred.

These words were spoken beautifully on @thetraumainformedlawyer by @nkemndefo

#birthisjustice #generationalhealing #traumainformed #yegdoula #yegbirth

Let this sink in.
It hit me hard.
I have worked in Early Childhood Development for over two decades, and the concept of child development beginning at birth does not get enough attention.

Birth is sacred.
Postpartum is sacred.
Infant development is sacred.
Early Childhood Development is sacred.
Our children are sacred.
Our future is sacred.

These words were spoken beautifully on @thetraumainformedlawyer by @nkemndefo

#birthisjustice #generationalhealing #traumainformed #yegdoula #yegbirth

No one talks about being pregnant when you first get pregnant. We follow the advice of our family doctors, our families, the tvs, and movies. But there is a whole world of informed consent and birth prep.

What would you add?

#midwifebaby #midwives #doula #yegdoula #yegbirth #yegfamily #pregnant #pregnancy #firsttrimester

No one talks about being pregnant when you first get pregnant. We follow the advice of our family doctors, our families, the tvs, and movies. But there is a whole world of informed consent and birth prep.

What would you add?

#midwifebaby #midwives #doula #yegdoula #yegbirth #yegfamily #pregnant #pregnancy #firsttrimester

Thank you to everyone who added me to their birth team this year and continue to support my services and support.

#valentines #doula #birthadvice #yegdoulas

Thank you to everyone who added me to their birth team this year and continue to support my services and support.

#valentines #doula #birthadvice #yegdoulas

When teams can not work together well, we are doing a disservice not only to birth as a Rite of Passage, or the Birthing person, but to the importance of Trauma Informed practices. When this is due to the behavior of a person due to people in power (which can include but isn't limited to medical professionals, board members, and systematic policies), we are robbing our community, especially those from marginalized groups the right to their birth story.

#birthtrauma #birthwork #birthworkisadvocacy #birthasariteofpassage #birthasaheroicjourney #yegdoulas #yegfamily #yegfamlies

When teams can not work together well, we are doing a disservice not only to birth as a Rite of Passage, or the Birthing person, but to the importance of Trauma Informed practices. When this is due to the behavior of a person due to people in power (which can include but isn't limited to medical professionals, board members, and systematic policies), we are robbing our community, especially those from marginalized groups the right to their birth story.

#birthtrauma #birthwork #birthworkisadvocacy #birthasariteofpassage #birthasaheroicjourney #yegdoulas #yegfamily #yegfamlies

The best part of being a birthworker is the ancestral wounds it has begun to heal.
My dad's baba was a midwife in Ukraine. I don't know a lot about her at this time, but I do know she delivered most of my dad's aunts and uncles. Not knowing more is a birth wound of mine, a disconnect.

If at any point I decided I no longer wanted to work in birthwork, the work I've done and the lessons I've learned are deeply ingrained in my cells and my soul, as is in my son and daughter. My prayer is that one day, they will allow me to be present at their birth of their babies and find comfort in my support during their postpartum. And if not, that is still okay because I know they are being raised with the example that birth is a transformational rite of passage and not to be feared.
That is worth everything.

#doula #doulababy #birthworker #midwifebaby #riteofpassage #birthwithoutfear #birthingfromwithin ##yegdoula #yegbirth

The best part of being a birthworker is the ancestral wounds it has begun to heal.
My dad's baba was a midwife in Ukraine. I don't know a lot about her at this time, but I do know she delivered most of my dad's aunts and uncles. Not knowing more is a birth wound of mine, a disconnect.

If at any point I decided I no longer wanted to work in birthwork, the work I've done and the lessons I've learned are deeply ingrained in my cells and my soul, as is in my son and daughter. My prayer is that one day, they will allow me to be present at their birth of their babies and find comfort in my support during their postpartum. And if not, that is still okay because I know they are being raised with the example that birth is a transformational rite of passage and not to be feared.
That is worth everything.

#doula #doulababy #birthworker #midwifebaby #riteofpassage #birthwithoutfear #birthingfromwithin ##yegdoula #yegbirth

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