Painless Birth

Painless Birth

When you think of a woman in labor what words come to mind? Screaming, hollering, lots of blood, maybe the husband getting a slap in the face or two? And, why does this come to mind? It comes to mind because that's what the media portrays and those are the types of stories mom tell other moms. I've heard so many moms tell other expecting moms how they're so thankful for the epidural because they couldn't have endured the pain without it. I've also heard moms say that nurses and doctors have laughed when they said they didn't want medicine. Some even went so far as to say, "Oh, you will." Why "natural" birth is scoffed at by some medical professionals baffles me. Why a mom isn't encouraged to create her childbirth experience is just as confusing. While at a DONA doula training with RN/doula Cindy Kerbs and Anne Branham (Lexington Medical Center) I saw a video where women were laboring in the sea. Some of these women caught their own babies--without a sound. Some made low groaning sounds, but even still, it didn't come remotely close to the agony American women are in during childbirth. Watching it for the first time seemed...strange. How can a woman labor and not scream and holler? There's a baby coming out of their vagina for goodness sakes! But, when you think about it, it's not so strange. In fact, if we believe the body is designed to birth, why does it always have to look like childbirth is the equivalent of "playing a game" with Jigsaw? I stumbled upon this video on Joy In Birthing (www.joyinbirthing.com) and wanted to share it with you and every woman. What would happen if the first birth you saw was a painless birth? A birth where mom smiled and immediately nursed cuddled and nursed her baby? What if your daughter associated birth with joy? How would she act during labor?

The Bump

Being one of those women who plan their wedding by the ripe age of 10, I stumbled upon the Knot. Apparently, the Knot had a significant amount of success because now they've created the Nest which deals with well...the Nest! There are recipes, home decor tips, advice for budgeting, etc. And, now there's the Bump! The Bump is a great site for aspiring, expecting, and veteran mommies. Loads of tips, advice, and inspiring stories. Check it out for yourself!

3D Animation of "Normal" Vaginal Birth

Ever wondered what childbirth looks like from the inside? The human body is amazing.

Check it out.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xath6kOf0NE

R-E-S-P-E-C-T

I cringed while in a prenatal class watching cesarean sections and epidural babies being extracted by forceps or a vaccum. I don't look down on mothers who have medicated births; however, seeing the baby pulled out of the vagina always gives me such uneasy feelings. Just when I was thinking how much I did NOT want any medical intervention Greer Memorial Hospital nurse, Stephanie, reminded me that while my birth plan was important the health of the baby was MOST important. For example, there are moms who labor for many, many hours and greatly desire to have a vaginal birth but are instructed to have a cesarean section because baby and/or mom are in distress. After undergoing this surgery, it's important that mom takes time to recover. This might interfer with bathing baby after birth or spending as much time with baby as mom would like. However, mom needs to take care of herself before she can properly care for baby. In 2000, a study was published in the British journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine where researchers in Australia and New Zealand reported that sleep deprivation can have some of the same hazardous effects as being drunk. This might throw a serious wrench into your plans. I already know that I want to breastfeed immediatly after birthing my baby. I also want me and my husband to give baby his/her first bath. I have all these plans for a pregnancy that might not go according to plan. On the one hand you have childbirth professionals urging expecting moms to educate themselves on all of their options and write out their birth plan in excruciatingly painful detail. And, then you have other childbrith professionals laughing at such an idea saying, "Leave it up to me to do what's best for you and baby; You lie back and don't worry about it." I remember hearing a someone say that the truth always lies somewhere in the middle. I belive that's an appropriate phrase in this scenario. It is important to do your research when it comes to the birth of your babe. However, it's also important to forego your plans when they aren't in the best interest of the baby. Some women look at deviation as a form of defeat. Doing what's best for your baby isn't defeat ladies. It's being a good mother. :) If you take nothing else away from this article, please consider this:

1. Everyone deserves respect.
2. Every mom should be able to create HER own birth experience.
3. Every birth is different. So, when creating your birth experience or speaking with another mom about her birth experience take ALL things into consideration.
4. Baby getting her safely and healthy is MOST important.
5. Mom has to take care of herself before she can care for her lil' bundle.
   
   

Tell EVERYONE You Know!

Tonight while at a childbirth class taught by Greer Memorial Hospital nurse, Stephanie, I learned two things that I decided I wanted to share with everyone, everywhere.

• UMBILICAL CORD PROLAPSE

An UMBILICAL CORD PROLAPSE is will the cord is born before the baby. If this happens to you or anyone you know tell them that they need to grab a phone and warm, sopping wet towel. They need to lie down and elevate their feet above their heart while calling 911. The warm, wet towel should be placed inbetween their legs to keep the umbilical cord moist.

• PLACENTAL ABRUPTION

A PLACENTAL ABRUPTION is when the placenta separates from the uterus. There may be concealed bleeding or visible bleeding. If this happens, grab a phone, dial 911 while laying down and elevating legs.

I am not sharing this to scare you, but to INFORM you. This is an emergency; however, you should attempt to remain as calm as possible because the sooner you elevate your legs, etc. the better the outcome will be. DO NOT DRIVE TO THE HOSPITAL. EMS is knowledgeable about umbilical cord prolapses and placental abruptions and are equipped to remedy the situation better than you are.

Ignorance is not bliss. Knowledge is power.

I Am Part of the Home Birth Movement Because...

I am part of the home birth movement because... because we are too short, too tall, too thin, too small of foot, too old, too young, too wide, and our pelvises are too narrow, too small, too untried, or unproven or the wrong shape, and our uteruses are too scarred, or pointing the wrong way, or we are too multiparous, too fertile, too infertile, too female, too small, too big, too fat, too emotional, too detached, too strong, too weak, too intelligent, too well designed to birth, not designed well enough, and our vaginas are too scarred, too unproven, not stretchy enough or too stretchy, and we're too inconvenient, too unpredictable, too demanding, too informed, too loud, too messy, and our bodies labour too long or not long enough, and our cervices don't dilate 1cm an hour on command and because when you hire a surgeon you get surgery and hospitals are for sick people…and so for these and many other reasons, we are part of the home birth movement.

-- Janet Fraser

Tell TBBC your thoughts on this quote from Janet Fraser.

Dear Doctor/Dear God

Shannon Hunter posted this on http://www.midwifetobe.com/. I thought it was eye-opening and beautiful and wanted to share it with my readers. Enjoy!

Dear Doctor,

Why is the exact duration of a woman's pregnancy unknown?

Because I have no way to know when exactly a woman conceived.Fear not, for I induce labor by 41 weeks if you have not gone intolabor on your own by then.
Why is the end of pregnancy often restless, uncomfortable, andemotional?
It is often restless because of the size of the belly, and thehormones in the body.It is uncomfortable because of the added weight, the weight of thebaby, and the size of the belly.It is emotional due to the many hormones that your body is producingin this time.Fear not, for I have medications for the restlessness. I will tellyou to not lift a finger if pregnancy becomes too uncomfortable, andpromise an induction as soon as you're past term. I have medicationsfor the emotions, and as soon as you rid your body of that fetus,your hormones will regulate.

Why is labor gradually more painful as time goes on?

It is increasingly more painful because the body is opening for baby.If your bones are too small, then the pain will be harder, and oftenpointless. If the baby is not in a good position, it will make itharder and more painful, and the baby may not come out on his own. Fear not, for I have drugs and anesthesia to numb you from the pain.If the baby is too big or in a bad position, I will cut him out sothat you will not suffer. Fear not, for I will not allow you to gotoo long in labor.

Are there risks with these drugs?

Very little. You need not worry about them, because you will needthem to get through the pains of labor. Why should you have tosuffer, when I can relieve the pain? Do not worry about the risk toyour baby, because you need to be comfortable so that you can enjoybaby after the birth. Yes, there is a risk that the labor will slow,that the baby will become distressed, or that you may not be able topush the baby out effectively. ..But fear not, because if the labor slows, I have drugs to make laborcome back faster. Fear not, because if the baby becomes distress, Iwill cut him out so that he does not suffer. Fear not, because if youcannot push him out, I will use forceps or I will cut him out of yourbody.

Why is the urge to push said to be unbearable?

The urge to push is only felt if you do not have drugs or anesthesiain your body. This is not necessary, as I will tell you when yourcervix is fully dilated, and when you will be allowed to push. I willtell you when your baby is ready.Fear not, for I will not allow you to suffer by pushing for too long.If you cannot push the baby out, I will rescue him with forceps or acesarean.

What is the purpose of the 'ring of fire' when pushing?

You need not worry about this if you have epidural anesthesia. Youneed not feel this painful sensation at all, and I do not like mypatients to suffer. I will tell you when your baby's head isemerging, and if the baby's head is slow to come, I will simply cutyour flesh. If I need to cut it, I will repair it with sutures.Fear not, for I am skilled with the scissors and repair techniques.

Why do women's nipples darken during pregnancy?

They darken due to hormones. No need to worry, as they will return tonormal within the months after birth, if you bottle feed.Fear not, for they will be pretty again.

Why will my breasts leak milk after giving birth?

This is the body's normal reaction to birth. Don't worry though, asthe milk will dry off and you will be rid of the heaviness within afew weeks of birth, if you bottle feed. Yes, breastmilk is best, butno one should expect a mother to feed a baby from the breast if shedoes not like the idea. The formula companies are always improvingtheir design, to make it more like breastmilk. And don't worry aboutthe chemicals in formula, as they are in such small amounts that theywill surely not affect your baby.Fear not, for you do not have to cause your breasts to be saggy...Iwill send you home with free samples of the second best nutrition foryour baby.

Dear God,

Why is the exact duration of a woman's pregnancy unknown to her?

Because each baby develops at a different pace in the womb, and isready to be born only in their own time.Fear not, and have patience, for I have a perfect Birth Day for everybaby.

Why did You make it so that the end of pregnancy is often restless,uncomfortable, and emotional?

I made it restless so that your body will be ready for the nightfeedings with your baby.I made it uncomfortable so that you will be ready to face thesensations of birth, that will bring forth your baby.I made it emotional so that you will be prepared for the manyemotions that come in the moment you see the fruit of your womb forthe first time, and in the months of adjustment to motherhood after.Fear not, for I created you to have strength and endurance.

Why did You make labor to be increasingly strong and painful?

So that you may learn to work through the birth pangs in each stage,and take them one at a time, rejoicing in the increasing strength andknowing that your baby is near. I made it so that the contractionsgrow in strength and intensity so that each one may bring the babylower, and direct baby to be in the best position. I made laborsensations so that you may respond to your body with each need, andin knowing when baby is ready for you to begin pushing.Fear not, for I created you to be strong and able.

Why did You make the urge to push so unbearable?

So that you would begin to push, only at the perfect time. If youbegin to push before this unbearable urge, you will likely push muchlonger than you need to. I created this urge so that you would know,without doubt, when the baby is ready to emerge from the womb.Fear not, for I created it this way so that you would not exhaustyour body in pushing before your body and your baby are ready.

Why did You create the 'ring of fire' when pushing?

So that you would feel clearly when the baby's head is ready toemerge, and push slowly, so as to not tear your flesh.Fear not, for I created your skin to stretch slowly, allowing forbaby's head. I created your tissue to tear along only the weakestspots, if a tear is necessary. These tears will heal well on theirown.

Why did You create labor and birth to be so hard for most women?

Labor and birth will not be painful for every woman, but every womanwill have hard work in labor. This is a part of the curse of Adam andEve, a part of your entry into motherhood. Just as the men are calledupon to work hard to provide for their family, women are called uponto work hard to bring forth the life of their womb. Hard work inlabor and birth will prepare you for the task and honor of being amother. With motherhood comes hard work. Physically, mentally,emotionally hard work. Labor and birth open the door for the task youwill be faced with.Fear not, for I also created birth to have a reward. I created yourbody to release the highest amount of endorphins that will ever beknown to your body, if you leave labor and birth to My design.Hindering the process will not bring this release though, so knowthat the hard work of labor serves a purpose, and is not withoutreward.

Why do women's nipples darken during pregnancy?

So that the newborn at birth, whose eyesight is yet blurry, may findthe breast and be well nourished.Fear not, for I created it so that baby may always find his way tohis mother's breast, and find comfort and health.

Why do my breasts leak milk after giving birth?

So that you may provide your baby with the perfect nutrition.Colostrum so thick with fat and protein, perfect for the newlybirthed baby. Breast milk that comes in at the perfect time, in twoparts. First, thinner to quench the baby's thirst. Second, thickhindmilk to fill baby's belly. Each feeding is filled with differenttastes, and different textures. This prepares baby for toddler hood,when he will begin to taste the first solid foods of his life.Through nursing at the breast, a baby develops a strong, healthy jaw,and is filled with antibodies, vitamins, and essential fatty acids. A baby also receives the warmth of his mother's breast, the smell ofher skin, and the sound of her heart.Fear not, for I created breastmilk to be the most perfect food foryour baby.

A Real Live Cervix! Oh My!

Today I came across something today and I found it very fascinating. I'm sure you will, too. It is pictures of a woman's cervix during a complete cycle. I believe seeing a cervix up-close is beneficial to any woman. We hear about all these various body parts and organs, but it's rare that we actually get to see a real one. In case you didn't know, the cervix is the organ that dialates to 10cm when you are complete and ready to birth your baby. When you aren't pregnant, the cervix is hard like the tip of your nose. As you progress, the cervix becomes soft like your lips. Take a moment to go to Beautiful Cervix where you can view a REAL cervix. Have fun!

Speaking out for the GREAT Doctors and Nurses!

Doctors and nurses get a bad rap. They're impersonal, rough, inconsistent, and stoic (just to name a few). But, what about the nurse or doctor who helped you to enjoy your stay? What about the doctor or nurse that went beyond the call of duty to make you feel comfortable? They do exist, but unfortunately bad stories are told 10 times more often than good stories. Let's change that. I'll start.

When my cousin Linda was in early labor she had an excellent nurse by the name of Carly (Greenville Memorial Hospital). Carly was so sweet! She never acted as if we were waiting on the 28th baby to be born that weekend. She took our concerns seriously, respected our wishes, and even cracked a joke or two. I've contacted Greenville Memorial to get Carly's last name, a photo, or something but I was told that Carly doesn't work there anymore. If anyone knows Carly, please have her email me so that we can represent her properly. But in the meantime, shout-out the nurse/doctor who went above and beyond for you or someone you know (maybe even yourself).

ATTN: 24 HR. CHILDCARE PROVIDERS

• While speaking with Licensed Midwife and RN Denese Norris I remember feeling somewhat overwhelmed with the whole topic of midwifery. Lay midwifery can be a self-guided path for many. As you are encouraged to find your own way, piece together your education, and hope that it works like lay midwives before you. Having kids only makes it even more difficult. Denese is mother to 6 children ranging from age 1-17. She spoke of the burden of finding last minute childcare for her youngest daughter. As she was talking I began to thinking about my future family. I want at least 4 children, but where do they go when Daddy's out of town and Susie's going into labor?! Wouldn't it be awesome if there was a 24 hr. childcare provider in the area that the children recognized and felt safe with? Wouldn't it be a breath of fresh air to you to leave your children with someone you knew would be available for those unpredictable moments?
  
  If you are a 24 hour childcare provider, please email me at brandiswilson@gmail.com . I will post your information so that on-call persons can contact you. Please provide the following:
  
  
• Name
  
• Age


• Telephone Number


• Email Address


• City/State


• Website/Blog (optional)


• Picture (optional)


• Brief Introduction (optional)

**Neither Brandi Wilson nor TBBC can be held responsible for childcare providers and their actions. This is simply a referral. Parents are encouraged to meet with and interview the childcare provider prior to making childcare arrangements. Parents take full responsibility.**

Stretch Mark Tricks That Work!

Okay, so I've tried to convince you that your pregnant belly is beautiful. Hopefully you pulled up your shirt and embraced the new changes your body is undergoing, but I understand that while you may love your pregnant self you still might loathe your stretch marks. So, what works? Are there any miracle creams? Any massage techniques? Does weight loss help? Will keeping the stomach moisturized during the growing stages prevent the stretch marks? Share your secrets with TBBC!

MAGNIFICENT MOMS!

Whenever people get up to give a speech of gratitude who do they always thank first? Momma. What's one of the biggest days for dining out? Mother's Day. Who did you run to when you fell of your bike and skinned your knee ? Momma. Which parent did the best male R&B group of all time, Boyz II Men (duh!), make a song about? Momma. Who does The Belly Button Connection love? Momma! You got it, baby! I'd be faking the funk if I said ALL moms are great. I am an avid supporter for motherhood, but I do live on planet Earth. All moms are special because they're moms, but today we're talking about MAGNIFICENT MOMS! If your mom is absolutely magnificent tell us about her and tell us why! If YOU are a magnificent mom don't be bashful now! Put your fingers on the home row and type out your magnificence, Momma.

When I Grow Up I Want To Be Like Patch Adams!

Patch Adams said...

"Is not a doctor someone who helps someone else? When did the term doctor get treated with such reverence, as "Oh, right this way, Doctor Smith." At what point in history did a doctor become more than a trust friend who visited and treated the ill?"

"A doctor's mission should be not just to prevent death but to improve the quality of life. That's why when you treat a disease, you win, you lose. You treat a person, I guarantee you, you win no matter what the outcome."

Today I watched Patch Adams for the umpteenth time and I cried when the lil' kids came into the hearing with their clown noses. I LOVE this movie. I knew the first time I saw it that I wanted to practice medicine in the same "treat the patient as well as the disease" way that Patch lived and breathed.

"Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around." ~Leo Buscaglia

I ran across this quote while browsing a social services website and I whole-heartedly believe that these have the potential to heal a soul. Everyday people ask me what I want to do in life, what my post-graduation plans are. I never quite know the job title/description to give them; I want to be a lot of things: midwife, business owner, wife, mother, humanitarian, friend, doula. If I were to sum it up in one word...I want to be love.

Designs by Sarah Darby

What Do These Paintings Mean To You?

The Waiting Room

Man Made

Tell TBBC what you think about these paintings. I'll have creator Sarah Darby explain her inspirtaion for these paintings and why they mean so much to her.

Let Me Be Your Doula!

Live in the Upstate? Looking for a doula? Contact me and let's chat!

"Two is better than one because they have a good return for their labors; But woe to her that is alone when she falleth: for she hate not another to help her up. Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves, and a three strand cord is not quickly broken." Ecclesiastes 4: 9-12

Doulas aren't just support persons. Doulas are support persons who are educated in childbirth. They can be a wealth of knowledge to you before, during, and after your labor. A doula is able to remain objective when everyone else is consumed with emotions from the labor. Dads can be great companions, but why take this precious moment away from them? They are experiencing birth just like mom. While doulas encourage dads to participate as much or as little as they'd like, dads shouldn't have the burden or retaining everything they've read about birth in the last 9 months! Doulas become whatever the family needs. A doula:

• learns what the couple expects and wants during labor



• learns what soothes the mother



• learns what role the partner wants to play (if any)



• remains with the mother throughout the entire delivery



• massages, holds, and wipes forehead and tears of mother



• takes pictures



• suggests more comfortable laboring positions



• reminds couple of pre-discussed birth plan



• reminds couple of their options



• explains any unclear medical procedures and risks



• makes sure mom has everything she wants/needs when everyone else is napping, getting food, or drooling over baby



• helps mom find her rhythm



• encourages mom that she can do this while encouraging dad that mom is okay

Doulas go through over 50+ hours of education to become certified. When a doctor says he's going to give you pitocin will you remember what it is? If it's necessary? And, if it's harmful to baby? Will you remember if it was a medication you wanted to receive or not when you're heeeing and haaaing trying to manage your contractions? Do you know how to push? Are you aware that you hold your tension in your eyebrows? What is about unwanted visitors who could stop your labor? A doula, being more objective and less attached, can assist with all of these things. And even if you don't use me, there are many ways to interview and hire the right doula for you. Look for doulas in your area at http://www.dona.org/. You can also google them. If you know of a great doula, recommend her here. Or, if you are a doula, advertise your services with TBBC. Also, be sure to tell TBBC and its readers the importance of having a doula from your point of view.

"Loving Yourself Is A Never-Ending Journey," says Oprah.

I went to the gym last night and couldn't find a single parking space. Now when I was attending the gym back in the summer of 2008 there were always parking spots! And, close ones! But, I get it. It's the beginning of the year and people are getting themselves ready mentally, emotionally, financially, and physically. I won't pretend I'm not one of them, because I most definitely am. Obama put the mantra "Yes We Can" in our heads long before the New Year and oddly enough, I believe it's there to stay. I personally feel more in control of myself this year. I've set the same personal goals every Jan 1st, but I actually feel empowered and motivated enough to do them (at least I think I do). Yesterday after grocery shopping I picked up People, Shape, and Us magazines. Of course all of them are mainly discussing conquering the weight battle. Oprah is even doing a 5 day series "Oprah's Best Life Week" where she will get the best instructors to help her start her new year off right. She dares all of us "to make 2009 the year we give ourselves the love we need to be happy, to be healthy, to be well and to be loved." I like that. Many of my friends say they aren't making New Years Resolutions, but resolutions are just goals and we all have goals. My goals are:

1. Lose weight, sculpt, and tone.
2. Pay off 3/4 of my debt by December 2009.
3. Spend more time with God (reading, praying, communicating throughout the day).
4. Obtain a job directly related to my career goals: Women's health/Midwifery/Doula
5. Take at least 3 vacations.
6. Have at least 1000 people come to this blog.
7. Laugh hard. Love harder. Live freely.

WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS? LETS GET THERE TOGETHER!

Pregnant and Fabulous!

(Then Pregnant) Fashionista Nia Harris

I don't know any other pregnant non-celeb who had paporazzi trailing her during her pregnancy. Nia Harris is first time mom to cutie/diva/future fashionista Haidyn Willams (pictures to come soon). I knew the first time I met Nia that she was in a class all by herself. She walked into Maggianos in a black and cream bustier-type blouse, black pencil skirt, and black pumps. Hair and make-up -- flawless. Oh, did I forget to mention a 6 lb. baby in tow? I knew instantly that she cared a great deal about her appearance and after browsing her facebook page I saw just how accurate her first impression had been. So, how does she stay so fly? Luckily TBBC was able to steal a minute or two of her time to get some answers that could help all of us in the '09!

TBBC: Thanks for taking the time to speak with us, Nia.

Nia: Aww! It's such an honor to be your muse. (lol)

TBBC: A lot of women throw their hands up to fashion during pregnancy. What made you put forth such an effort to maintain your sexy?

Nia: Well I tried to look fly because there's a part of you that knows your whole life is about to change so you try to grasp and hold on to what you've know and what your comfortable with. I knew there were some all time favorite pieces of clothing that I wasn't going to be able to wear anymore even after the pregnancy, not so much that I wouldn't be able to fit in them but that I wouldn't fill them out the way I did before. Another part of me was battling with my self image changing, physically, mentally and emotionally. I had heard horror stories of trying to shed the baby weight, the after baby weight that you might gain, the pregnancy mask, stretch marks, etc. and these were all things that scared me to death.

TBBC: You said you were "scared to death" of all the changes your body was enduring. Do you think this made you work harder to remain as "normal" as possible?

Nia: Being used to dressing in all the cute trends I had to figure out how to continue doing that. I feel like that sentence was really conceited. (She giggles.) I didn't want pregnancy to stop me. I was going to look my best in the midst of throwing up, crying while trying to maintain the eye make up, and while looking around my stomach to make sure the stiletto heel wouldn't get caught in the sidewalk. (lol) In addition to that I tried to maintain my regular schedule. I was still going to kickboxing class, still carrying groceries up my 3 story building, and still wearing my heels, which is my other half (literally, I'm so short!).

TBBC: Carrying groceries up a 3 story building? Kickboxing class? I don't even want to do those things now! Whatever happened to laying in bed, eating bun-buns, and watching re-runs of Law and Order and America's Next Top Model?

Nia: There was a point when I got really depressed [within my relationship], just feeling like I wasn't worth anything, wasn't attractive enough, etc. So, it was at that point that I made it a priority to keep myself up. And I found that people were cheering me on in their own ways. Like every time I went to LA Fitness to go to my kickboxing class people would stare in awe as they saw this 5'2 pregnant girl walking through the gym. When I would get in class, the instructor would say something like "We got a 5 month pregnant lady is here wearing y'all out, you guys need to pick it up!" and then people would come up to me asking how far along I was and commending me for maintaining my workout. When I would do my regular things they would always comment on how I could still be wearing heels and carrying this 6 lb. baby. SO at this point I was now enjoying the attention I received from people because it felt good knowing that I was attempting to make myself feel better by maintaining my regular life and people were commending me on it. Does that make sense?

TBBC: That makes perfect sense. Even now, 5 months after your pregnancy, I'm proud of you for how hard you worked at your personal goals. You're a true inspiration. I saw Haidyn this past Thanksgiving and she's such a happy baby. Do you think your positive attitude throughout your pregnancy has something to do with that?

Nia: It wasn't only the fashion that kept me feeling like I was still apart of society ( because sometimes being pregnant can make you feel alienated from society, can't wear this, can't drink this, need help getting up,etc.) but I tried to give my baby the best life inside my stomach and I knew I had to feel good about myself in order to do that. That's why I took days out to do me. Like the album on facebook "Mommy and Hai day" I did everything that made me happy.

TBBC: Okay, it's 2009 and everyone's trying to better themselves. How does TBBC readers remain fashion forward during their pregnancy? Where'd you shop?

Nia: For jeans and dress shirts, the basics, I did go to places like Sears and JC Penny. They have really good work clothes and jeans for cheap. They always have a sale. For the cuter things.... FOREVER 21!!!!!!!!!! They're really cheap and I would just buy a bigger size. Luckily, I was pregnant during the summer so leggings and dresses were the shit; I had no problem. I went to Charlotte Russe, really any store I regularly went to, and just picked up bigger sizes. Of course I tried them on because you'll be surprised at how things pull in different ways in certain areas. Elastic was my second best friend, heels first! As for my fav pieces at home I just made them work (courtesy of Tim Gun from Project Runway). If I had to put a cami underneath to cover the bottom so my stomach wouldn't be hanging out then that's what it was. If I had to put a rubber band through the button hole in my favorite Armani gray skinny leg jeans to give me some room then I did it. The heels....that's a hard one because most women as is can't really do heels all the time. I give much credit to dance that allows me to prance around in heels as if my pinky toes weren't cursing me out. My feet have endured a lot! Once you've danced on toe (the term for when you are actually dancing on your toes literally in Toe shoes) you can do anything!

TBBC: I went into Mimi's Maternity store in the mall with my pregnant cousin and found a lot of great sales and cute outfits. Plus, they have a wide variety of size (if you can't go to your usual stores and pick up a larger size). Did you find that most maternity stores were expensive?

Nia: Yes. I didn't have the funds to shop at those high end pregnancy shops. You could go to maternity world or whatever that place is called in the mall, but I chose to stick to my places. A lot of those maternity places have the most frumpy clothes and I feel like they don't cater to the younger moms. There are some but I found they were usually very expensive and I couldn't spend that amount on clothes I'd only wear a couple of months, if that. I remember I got one maternity dress and by the time I was to wear it I couldn't even zip it. Luckily I could fit in it after I had Haidyn when I still had a pouch, like 4 weeks after she was born. And, I can still wear it and not look like I"m wearing a maternity dress. Also a big part that helps is accessories!!!! I would take the simplest white tee and jeans and throw on my favorite BCBG copper ball room like heels and go over board with the jewelry, bag and make up. So half of the time it wasn't even where I shopped but more so what I did with the simple things and more importantly how me keeping myself together physically and mentally manifested itself in my fashion game.

I feel like I just wrote a whole editorial. I hope i didn't come across materialistic.

TBBC: Of course not. Fashion is important to lots of people or else magazines would remain on the self and shows like Project Runway and The Fabulous Life of Kimora Lee Simmons wouldn't be on the air. And, I think that pregnant women sometimes think they have to forgo fashion due to comfort, lack of funds, or low self-esteem and your story helps us to see that is not the case. I've always heard that even when you feel your worse, get up, shower, do your hair and put on something nice because when you look good, you can't help but feel good.

Any last fashion tips before we sign off?

Nia: Oh...Marshalls, TJ maxx, etc. are very good places too. Like I said I was just trying to get things that could work with pieces I may have already had or that I could wear and not feel bad for paying an arm and leg and then tossing them after. By the way, Old Navy's maternity section is pretty good, too.

TBBC: Well, thanks a ton for your insight. And, good luck with your relationship and baby girl.

If you know a woman who's always looking her best despite the morning sickness, heart burn, tears, baby spit-up, and enormous diaper bad that has now replaced her name brand hand bag please have her comment and submit her photos. We love to see mommies looking their best!

Got an aching back? Need to relax? Let At Peace Therapeutic Massage Soothe the Aches Away!

Imagine this being your bathroom. Can you hear the soft, soothing music playing? Can you smell the faint scent of calming lavender? Dip your foot into the hot, steamy water. Go on. Play with the bubbles. Now place the other foot in and ease down into the soapy water. Hmmm. That feels good. In case you're thinking I do this at home every night I'd like to remind you waiting in the other room is a nice large massage table along with a woman who has the hands of a god, namely Jodie Appel.

So many moms give and give and give and never take time to give back to themselves. Ladies, it's important that we take out a minute to oil the machine or the machine is going to shut down. And, a broken machine isn't any good to anybody. That's why we have Jodie! Jodie is a massage therapist in Greenville, SC. She received her Massage Therapy training from Educating Hands in Miami, Florida. She is a Licensed Massage Therapist and Hydrotherapist who is Nationally Certified and is a member of Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals. She has practiced in Florida, Hawaii, Arizona, New Jersey and South Carolina. No worries, Jodie plans to stay in South Carolina for a while! :)

I visited Jodie at her massage parlor right before New Years. My lil' sister and I pulled up at her house and I must admit I wasn't sure what to expect. After introducing ourselves, Jodie led us to the back of the house where her studio is. As soon as she opened the door, I knew this was a place for pure relaxation. The tranquil atmosphere instantly puts you in a serene place. There's only one bed in her studio so your session is absolutely private. And, she has a pillow specifically for pregnant women so that you can lie on your stomach even at 9 months and enjoy a full body massage!

At Peace Therapeutic Massage offers a variety of massage services:

• Therapeutic Massage
• Prenatal Massage

"Connecting with mother and baby, through the power of touch, tried and tested safe pregnancy massage techniques are adapted to each stage of pregnancy. Specialized positioning on our pregnancy pillow is used to ensure comfort and relaxation."

• Couples Massage
• Reflexology
• Reiki
• and On-Site Massage just to name a few. Be sure to visit Jodie's website http://www.atpeacemassage.com/. And make sure to mention TBBC! You'll definitely enjoy yourself.

Click the link below for a $5 coupon!

At Peace Therapeutic Massage

Simply Me -- Introducing Brandi Wilson, Creater of The Belly Button Connection

Who is this Brandi Wilson chick, anyway?!

Brandi's a woman who has dreamed of becoming a mother since she was old enough to watch the Cosby Show. :) She's a sister, daughter, and friend who has seen too many pregnant women in misery (for one reason or another). She says, "ENOUGH." She's a pregnant woman lover from the protruding navel to the stretch marks which is why she chose to study midwifery. She plans to treat childbirth with the same compassion she has for pregnant women. It is her sincere hope that she am a blessing to all the women she encounters, being able to tune into what they need at that moment, listening twice as much as she speaks, throwing aside the over-used phrase "that's just the way it is" and being ready to be a radical advocate for they need and want, trusting God to show her the way and allowing her heart to follow.


Hello! And, welcome to The Belly Button Connection! My name is Brandi Wilson. I'm a 24 year old who is very passionate about childbirth. If you read the entry "My Lil' Inspiration: Baker "Faker" Lewis", you'll see that although I've always had a passion for maternal and child health, the idea of becoming a childbirth professional sort of slipped up on me. The best things always do. I began my college education with an interest in becoming an obstetrician and then changed my major to psychology. I still didn't have an idea of what I wanted to do, but I knew I wanted to help people because that is when I was my absolute best...helping others. Of course the job description "helping others" totally baffled Career Services so all throughout my college career I felt lost. I loved first aid kits, wearing scrubs, handling medical instruments, hanging out with women and children, and being social. Does that hint at midwifery? I guess it does, but hindsight is 20/20.


At the present moment, I am in the process of becoming a certified doula through DONA International and a certified childbirth educator. Providing these services as well as being a full-time server will provide me with income until I am a licensed midwife through correspondence program, Midwife To Be under licensed midwife, Lisa Aman.


Thank you for stopping by and please continue to visit as I will post new topics a few times/week. I look forward to interacting with all of you and perhaps even meeting some of you. This blog is for you. Please do not hesitate to communicate your interests and I will do my best to cover them. God bless!

Bringing in the New Year with TBBC!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Bringing in the New Year with my best friends

Happy New Year! And, welcome to The Belly Button Connection (TBBC)! I hope that all of you brought in the New Year doing something fun with the ones you love. I believe that how you bring in the New Year does depict how the rest of your year will go. Is that superstitious? This year I went to Columbia with some of my best friends to celebrate the New Year. We are all around the 25 age range and are somewhat on edge about officially being ADULTS! Ya know, moving out on our own, solidifying our careers, thinking of marriage/children, getting our finances together, etc. Although anxious, we are also very excited about what's to come in 2009.

I am beginning my midwifery studies this month, in the process of becoming certified as a doula and childbirth educator, and last, but oh-so-not least, this is the first month for TBBC! So, I have quite a few things to be thankful for! Not to mention my wonderful family and friends and my gracious boyfriend who hasn't tired of hearing me go on and on about fetal positions, my ideal birth, and of course my latest venture, The Belly Button Connection!

Though every morning we awake brand new, January 1st is the start of a brand new year. It's truly a time to leave behind what we carried the entirety of the prior year. New Year's Day is every man's birthday (I can't take credit from that. I read it somewhere and I believe it!) and so it's important that we not only write down New Year's resolutions (which are just goals for the year), but that we strive to be better than we were the year before. In fact, that's the beauty of every day, the fact that we can become closer to the true person we are striving to be. Little Gidding II once said, "For last year's words belong to last year's language and next year's words await another voice." I hope that TBBC will be a new voice full of love, appreciation, empathy, compassion, and hope.

Happy New Year!

Sincerely,

Brandi

**Share how you brought in your New Year with TBBC! Send some pictures, too!

Looking for events to attend?

Hi ladies! I admit I haven't quite figured out how to incorporate an ongoing calendar where you can advertise events. But, I'm going to get the events out to you one way or another however tacky. So, this blog entry will be updated as events are posted. Additionally, If you have any events that you would like advertised, please contact me via email.

MARCH

13th-31st - (St. Helenas Island, SC) "Birthing A Community": A Tribute to African-American Midwives. "Birthing A Community is an exhibition on the history of midwifery in Fairfield County from slavery to modern trends in prenatal care." The award-winning exhibit is on was loaned to York W. Bailey Museum for this momentous occasion. It was originally curated by Michaela Brown for Fairfield County Museum. Contact York W. Bailey Museum's curator Ada McKenzie at amckenzie@penncenter.com for more information.

17th - (Spartanburg, SC) Mary Kury will begin a series of BradleyChildbirth Classes. Each series consist of 12 classes which begin at 6:30pm. Contact her at maryandtodd@gmail.com. Also visit her website at www.upstatenaturalbirth.com.

19th-22nd (Dallas, TX) ICTC Full Circle Doula Training. For more information contact Aqiylah Collins at aqiylah@ictcmidwives.org. 2009 Full Circle Doula Training schedule is available at http://www.ictcmidwives.org/.

APRIL

23rd-26th - (Portland, OR) ICTC Full Circle Doula Training. For more information contact Aqiylah Collins at aqiylah@ictcmidwives.org. 2009 Full Circle Doula Training schedule is available at http://www.ictcmidwives.org/.

27th - (Spartanburg, SC) Mary Kury will begin a series of Bradley Childbirth Classes. Each series consist of 12 classes which begin at 6:30pm. Contact her at maryandtodd@gmail.com. Also visit her website at www.upstatenaturalbirth.com.

MAY

14th-17th - (Richmond, VA) ICTC Full Circle Doula Training. For more information contact Aqiylah Collins at aqiylah@ictcmidwives.org. 2009 Full Circle Doula Training schedule is available at http://www.ictcmidwives.org/.

JUNE

16th -(Spartanburg, SC) Mary Kury will begin a series of Bradley Childbirth Classes. Each series consist of 12 classes which begin at 6:30pm. Contact her at maryandtodd@gmail.com. Also visit her website at www.upstatenaturalbirth.com.

JULY

AUGUST

6th-9th - (Atlanta, GA) DONA International Conference. Visit http://www.dona.org/ for more information.

20th-23rd - (Minneapolis, MN) ICTC Full Circle Doula Training. For more information contact Aqiylah Collins at aqiylah@ictcmidwives.org. 2009 Full Circle Doula Training schedule is available at http://www.ictcmidwives.org/.

SEPTEMBER

17th-20th - (Montgomery, AL) ICTC Full Circle Doula Training. For more information contact Aqiylah Collins at aqiylah@ictcmidwives.org. 2009 Full Circle Doula Training schedule is available at http://www.ictcmidwives.org/.

OCTOBER

15th-18th - (Portland, OR) ICTC Full Circle Doula Training. For more information contact Aqiylah Collins at aqiylah@ictcmidwives.org. 2009 Full Circle Doula Training schedule is available at http://www.ictcmidwives.org/.

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER