GET TO KNOW ME

I’m Rebecca, a certified doula passionate about supporting people during one of the most transformative times in their lives. My journey into the world of birth work began when I experienced my own unique path into motherhood. As someone who has given birth three times, with three vastly different experiences within four years, I realized that having a doula's support was the exact comfort my family and I needed while going through such a transformative experience. It was these experiences that led me to want to be that support for others.

With each of my children's births, I felt I was born again with them. I discovered new parts of myself I didn't know existed. With my oldest son, when my water spontaneously broke before contractions began, I had many decisions to make. I ended up transferring from a birth center, and the midwives chose not to accompany me to the hospital. I had zero continuity of care during the biggest life event I had experienced so far. I had so many questions—not all medical. The medical staff simply didn't have the time to answer them all. They did what they could, but they can't wear all the hats. I should have had a doula.

With the birth of my second son, I chose to find a provider who could offer me true VBAC support. She provided my care as my midwife until my birth, then an OB delivered my son at the hospital with the original midwife as my doula, and the midwife provided my postpartum care. I found this met my needs at the time, although it wasn't truly what I wanted. My doula was able to support me in the exact ways I needed. She coached me through different positions to try, talked through my fears and anxieties as they bubbled up, and nourished me with food, water, and soulful laughter. I had a successful VBAC that was truly pain-free. With the support of my doula, I was able to have the birth I wanted—one in which I felt respected, supported, and encouraged.

With my third son, I found a midwife who would support another VBAC, but this time I hesitated (easy to do when pregnant and chasing two toddlers!) in finding a doula, and finances were very tight, so it would have taken a significant amount of time to find one who would meet my specific needs. I wrongly assumed that the hospital would have as skilled and emotionally invested nursing staff as I had in my prior experience. I ended up having a precipitous birth, and my son was born within two hours of getting to the hospital. They didn't believe I was in labor when I was admitted into triage. My nurse refused to make eye contact as my body began pushing without the midwife there to deliver my son, and I felt like I was chaotically floating through space. I needed someone to emotionally ground me, to hold space for me, and to support me through the intensity that my body was experiencing. My coping mechanism became a song a beautiful friend had sung to me: "My body knows the way, just like my mother, her mother, and the mother before. My body knows the way." Over and over with each contraction. If I had had a doula, they would have been the person to ground me, to nurture me, and to talk through those fears and anxieties that came, and to support me through the most intense contractions I had experienced.

With each birth I experienced without a doula, I found myself wishing I had one. The transformative experience of giving birth should be one that is protected and enriched by the people around us. This is where I find my passion within birth work.

I offer a range of services, including prenatal visits, continuous labor support, and postpartum assistance, tailored to meet the unique needs of each family. I am committed to honoring your birth plan and amplifying your voice to protect the sacred birthing space.

I believe that every birth is unique and deserves to be honored and respected. My approach is rooted in compassion, respect, and empowerment, creating a safe and nurturing environment where you can express your desires and preferences for your birth experience. I am pleased to offer payment plans, bartering, and limited scholarships under certain requirements being met.

I am excited to connect with you all and share birth stories, insights, tips, and resources related to pregnancy, childbirth, and parenting. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or if you’re interested in learning more about how I can support you on this incredible journey!

WORK WITH ME

MY PHILOSOPHY

  • Autonomy

    Pregnancy is an extraordinary time that is filled with anticipation and transformation. It’s essential that every birthing person feels empowered to make choices that resonate with them. From deciding on prenatal care options to exploring various birthing plans, having the freedom to choose what feels right is vital. This autonomy fosters a sense of confidence, making the entire experience more fulfilling and personalized.

    When it comes to labor and delivery, autonomy takes center stage. Every birthing person deserves to have their voice heard and their preferences respected. Whether it's choosing a supportive environment, utilizing pain management techniques, or having loved ones by their side, these decisions can significantly impact how they experience birth. I believe that when birthing individuals are at the helm of their own journey, they are more likely to feel empowered and in control.

    Postpartum is another crucial phase where autonomy plays an essential role. This period can be a whirlwind of emotions and adjustments, and it's important to honor each individual’s unique path. Whether it’s choosing how to feed their baby, navigating support systems, or simply taking time for self-care, respecting their choices fosters a nurturing environment for both the birthing person and their newborn.

    In my role as a doula, I am here to provide support, information, and encouragement, but ultimately, it’s your journey. You are the expert on your own body and your own experience. Together, we can create a space where your autonomy shines, ensuring that your pregnancy, birth, and postpartum experience is as unique and beautiful as you are.

  • Respect

    At Belly Blessings, I truly believe that respect should be at the heart of everything we experience during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. Each journey is unique, and it deserves to be honored in its own way. I’m here to create a warm and supportive space where you can feel empowered to make choices that resonate with you—whether that’s a cozy home birth, a hospital delivery, or anything in between.

    I know that birth can be both thrilling and a bit overwhelming, and my goal as your doula is to provide you with continuous emotional and physical support. I want you to feel safe and respected throughout the entire process. And let’s not forget about postpartum! This time is just as important, and I’m here to help you navigate the transition into parenthood, honoring your individual experience and needs.

    I celebrate the beautiful diversity of the families I work with and strive to be culturally sensitive and inclusive. Everyone deserves to feel valued and understood during this incredible journey. I’m also committed to learning and growing, so I can offer the best support possible based on the latest practices and your unique situation.

    In short, my philosophy of respect is all about honoring your experience every step of the way. I’m here for you, ready to walk alongside you on this amazing journey into parenthood!

  • Security

    I am dedicated to creating a nurturing and secure environment for you during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum, recognizing that feeling secure plays a vital role in your overall experience. When you feel safe and supported, your body responds positively by balancing hormones that are crucial for a healthy pregnancy and labor.

    During pregnancy, a sense of security can help reduce stress and anxiety, leading to lower levels of cortisol—often referred to as the stress hormone. Instead, feeling secure promotes the release of oxytocin, often called the "love hormone," which is essential for bonding and can help facilitate a smoother labor process.

    In the labor phase, a secure environment allows your body to function optimally. When you feel safe, the release of oxytocin increases, helping to strengthen contractions and promote a more effective labor. Additionally, lower stress levels can lead to improved blood flow and oxygen delivery to both you and your baby, supporting a healthier birth experience.

    After birth, the importance of feeling secure continues. A calm and supportive atmosphere can help you navigate the emotional and physical challenges of postpartum. It fosters the release of hormones like prolactin, which supports breastfeeding and bonding with your baby. When you feel secure, you’re more likely to trust your instincts and feel confident in your new role as a parent.

    I prioritize open communication and actively listen to your wishes, concerns, and feelings, tailoring my support to help you feel at ease. Together, we’ll discuss your birth plan, ensuring you feel prepared and confident for each step. I’m here to offer emotional reassurance, provide physical comfort techniques, and advocate for your wishes with your healthcare team.

    By creating a safe and supportive atmosphere, I aim to help you embrace your birthing experience fully. Your comfort and security are my top priorities, and I’m here to support you every step of the way, knowing that a sense of security can have profound effects on your journey through pregnancy, labor, and postpartum.

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