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Birth Goddess



  • To prepare and practice prenatally for the work of labor and birth...
  • To understand the processes involved in giving birth...
  • To become familiar and skilled in comfort techniques...
  • To become fully aware of intervention/procedure benefits and drawbacks...
  • To know your options and alternatives to make informed choices...

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The Prone Position- Most commonly used in American hospitals (not because mom is comfortable, but because the staff is!), beneficial for moms that are tired or who have had epidural anesthesia. This position is working against gravity, the pelvic outlet is narrowed, and baby has a harder time navigating his or her way out.


The Squatting Position- Tilts pelvis and uterus forward, increases the strength of contractions, works with gravity for smooth descent of the baby, relieves back pressure, encourages dilatation of the cervix, supports abdominal muscles by placing thigh pressure against the abdomen, shortens birth canal depth, relaxes and stretches evenly the pelvic floor muscles, reduces the need for episiotomy, decreases the need for forceps deliveries, and can shorten second stage labor. The squatting position increases the pelvic outlet by another 1 to 2 cm...which may not seem like much, but when you are trying to push a baby out that is 6, 7, 8+ pounds, it can make all the difference you need! (Should be practiced prenatally!)

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(Feel free to use as a sample format for yourself!)

(Mom's name)'s Birth Wishes...

(Partner's name) and I are very excited about the birth of our first child. We have developed this wish list so that all involved will know how they can best help us. We do realize that circumstances may arise and that changes may occur.

During Labor

  • I would like to use whatever position I find comfortable, ie: standing, walking, squatting, birthball, etc.
  • I would prefer intermittent monitoring.
  • I would like to use the shower and or bath as a comfort measure.
  • I will be using music and dim lighting for relaxation.
  • I would like to delay the use of an IV and would prefer a Saline Lock.
  • I am aware that pain medication is available to me and I will let you know if I want it...please do not ask.  :)

During Birth

  • I would like to push in a variety of positions, ie: semi-reclined, sidelying, squatting, hands and knees, etc.
  • I would like to avoid an episiotomy and would prefer warm compresses, perineal support, peri massage oil, and position of choice to acheive this.

After Birth

  • I would like immediate skin-to-skin contact for bonding and breastfeeding.
  • We would like delayed cord clamping until the cord has stopped pulsing.
  • We would like to delay any newborn procedures for the first hour.
  • We will be delaying the Hep B vaccine until a later date and have discussed this with our pediatrician.
  • I will be breastfeeding so please no bottles, nipples, pacifiers, etc.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this and for making this day a respectable one. We are eternally grateful for all your help, support and encouragement.

Signed by Mom, Dad/Birth Partner, Midwife/Doctor, & Doula

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  • Candace Leach, LM, CPM
  • Licensed Midwife & Certified Doula
  • PO Box 4714 Lakewood, CA 90711
  • 562-272-4541
  • midwife@birthgoddess.com

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                                   © Candace Leach, LM, CPM 1996 - 2012

 
   
   
   
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