Bornbir Blog

Pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum articles for parents, doulas, lactation consultants, and other perinatal care providers.

Doula

How to Pay for Your Doula in 2024?

Paying for a doula varies depending on factors such as location, experience, and services offered. Here are some common ways to cover the costs associated with hiring a doula:Out-of-Pocket Payment: Many doulas charge a flat fee for their services, which is typically paid directly by the expectant parents. The fee may cover prenatal visits, labor support, and postpartum visits.Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA): Some families use their HSA or FSA funds to pay for doula services, as these accounts often cover medical expenses related to childbirth. Here is a complete guide. Insurance Reimbursement: While not all...

Doula

Navigating Birth Support: Partner vs. Doula – Unveiling the Key Differences and How They Impact Childbirth Experience

The answer is No. Both partner support and doula support play important roles during childbirth, but they serve different purposes.Partner Support:Emotional Connection: The partner, typically the spouse or significant other, provides emotional support and connection during labor.Familiarity: The partner knows the birthing person intimately and can offer comfort and reassurance.Advocacy: Partners can advocate for the birthing person's preferences and communicate with medical professionals.Doula Support:Professional Support: Doulas are trained professionals who provide physical, emotional, and informational support during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period.Continuous Presence: Doulas are often present throughout the entire labor process, offering continuous support.Comfort Techniques: Doulas use various...

VBAC

6 Books to Help You Have A Successful VBAC

Here are some books on VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean) that can inform and inspire your birth preparation:"The VBAC Companion: The Expectant Mother's Guide to Vaginal Birth After Cesarean" by Diana Korte and Maggie BanksThis book provides practical advice, success stories, and insights to help women navigate the VBAC journey."Silent Knife: Cesarean Prevention and Vaginal Birth after Cesarean (VBAC)" by Nancy Wainer Cohen and Lois J. EstnerNancy Wainer Cohen shares her own VBAC experience and explores the reasons behind the rising cesarean rates. The book provides information to help women make informed decisions."Natural Hospital Birth: The Best of Both Worlds"...

VBAC

How to Find A VBAC Friendly Doctor?

Finding a VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean) friendly doctor involves some research and communication. Here are steps you can take to find a truly supportive provider:Ask Your Current Provider:If you have a current healthcare provider, inquire about their stance on VBAC. Some doctors may be supportive, while others may have reservations.Check with Local Hospitals:Contact local hospitals and ask about their policies regarding VBAC. Some hospitals may have specific guidelines, and knowing this information can help you choose a provider associated with a VBAC-friendly hospital.Online Resources:Utilize online resources such as forums, social media groups, and websites dedicated to pregnancy and childbirth....

VBAC

Do I need a doula for a VBAC?

The decision to have a doula for a VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean) is a personal one and depends on various factors. A doula can provide emotional and physical support during labor and childbirth, which may be beneficial for any birth experience, including VBAC.Here are some considerations to help you decide:Emotional Support: If you feel that having continuous emotional support during labor is important for you, a doula can offer encouragement, reassurance, and help create a positive birthing environment.Information and Advocacy: Doulas are often knowledgeable about childbirth and can provide information and support in decision-making. This can be particularly helpful...

VBAC

How to Find A VBAC Doula in Denver, CO

To find a VBAC Doula in Denver, you can try the following methods:Online Doula Directories: Many websites and directories specialize in connecting people with doulas. You can try searching on platforms like Bornbir which allows you to search for doulas based on location and services offered.Local Birth Centers and Hospitals: Contact local birthing centers and hospitals in the Denver area. They may have recommendations for VBAC doulas who have experience working with women attempting a vaginal birth after a cesarean.Ask Your Healthcare Provider: Your obstetrician or midwife may have recommendations or be able to provide you with a list of...

VBAC

10 Questions to Ask A VBAC Doula Before Hiring

When interviewing a VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean) doula, it's essential to ask questions to ensure they align with your needs and preferences. Here are some questions you might consider:Experience and Training:How long have you been a doula, and how many VBAC clients have you supported?What specific training do you have related to VBAC support?Philosophy and Approach:What is your philosophy regarding VBACs, and how do you support women attempting a VBAC?Can you describe your approach to supporting clients during labor and delivery?Collaboration with Medical Professionals:How do you work alongside medical professionals, including obstetricians and midwives?Can you share an example of...

VBAC

How do you strengthen your pelvic floor for VBAC?

Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC) involves attempting a vaginal delivery after having had a previous cesarean section. Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles can be beneficial for overall pelvic health. Here are some exercises that may help:Kegel exercises: These involve contracting and relaxing the pelvic floor muscles. To do Kegels, squeeze the muscles as if you're trying to stop the flow of urine, hold for a few seconds, and then relax. Repeat several times throughout the day.Pelvic tilts: Lie on your back with knees bent, and tilt your pelvis upward, flattening your lower back against the floor. Hold for a few...

VBAC

What is the best predictor for a successful VBAC?

The success of a Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC) can be influenced by various factors. While individual circumstances may vary, some predictors associated with a higher likelihood of successful VBAC include:Prior Vaginal Birth: Women who have had a previous successful vaginal birth are generally more likely to have a successful VBAC.Reason for Previous Cesarean: If the previous cesarean was performed for reasons that are unlikely to recur, such as breech presentation or fetal distress, the chances of VBAC success may be higher.Type of Cesarean Incision: A low-transverse incision in the uterus during the previous cesarean is associated with a higher...

VBAC

How to Prepare For a Successful VBAC: 10 Helpful Tips (2024 Edition)

Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC) is a delivery option for women who have had a previous cesarean section. It's important to note that preparation and decision-making regarding VBAC should involve discussions with your healthcare provider. Here are some general things to consider when preparing for a VBAC:Consult with Your Healthcare Provider:Discuss your desire for a VBAC with your obstetrician or midwife.Review your medical history and previous cesarean(s) to determine if you're a suitable candidate.Educate Yourself:Learn about the risks and benefits of VBAC versus repeat cesarean section.Attend childbirth education classes, especially those focused on VBAC.Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle:Eat a balanced and...