DOC Team

Why is it ok to shame sleep training?

It never fails... 

We post about sleep training on social media and the questions or accusations come pouring in. 

"Don't you know that babies are biologically designed to wake during the night?"
"A parent shouldn't ignore their baby."
"Why have a baby anyway if you can't handle the sleep deprivation."

My goodness you would have thought we had specifically promoted starving a child, ignoring a child, or putting your needs as a parent before your child. But we didn't mention any of those things. 

So why the shame? Why the judgmental comments? Why all the questions?

A Tour of The Birth Center at Mission Hospital

A Tour of The Birth Center at Mission Hospital

The birth center features three private suites with spacious queen size beds and beautiful natural light; where you can move around freely and utilize the comfort of warm laboring tubs, aromatherapy, birth balls and hands-on support in a home like atmosphere. Staffed exclusively by a team of Midwives and Nurses, the serene setting features intermittent monitoring with a handheld doppler, avoids routine use of IV’s and permits eating and drinking regularly for nourishment during labor.

Open House Success!

What a whirlwind January was. Our calendars and hearts were full as we joyfully prepared to welcome our clients, families, and community for our Open House. And now it has come and gone. Gratitude doesn't begin to describe how we feel. To all of you that supported from near and far, for the hugs, the congratulations, the gifts, and the love; we thank you!

DOC Open House - Vendors & Giveaways Announced!

Hey all! We are just under 2 weeks away from our grand re-opening at Doulas of Orange County! We can't wait to open our doors and show you our exciting new hub for expectant and new parents in Orange County!!

Our Irvine center is currently offering weekly Mama & Baby meet ups, Toddler Playgroups, Prenatal Yoga and Baby + Me Yoga. Our parenting experts teach recurring classes including Childbirth Education, Baby Care Basics, Breastfeeding 101, VBAC Prep, Comfort Measures for Labor, a Grandparents Workshop and more. We also provide a variety of support groups including a VBAC support and Postpartum Support group.

We invite you to our Open House on January 20th 2018; 1:00-6:00pm in Irvine, California to learn all about our Prenatal, Birth and Postpartum services! We will be having some exceptional guest vendors and pop-up shops as well.  

The Marathon of Birth: Part 2, Active Labor

Welcome back to the Marathon of Birth, an overview of the stages of labor plus tips & tricks from your favorite Birth Doulas! If you haven't already done so, review Part 1: Early Labor to get a good understanding of how to manage that phase of labor. 

Remember that birth has 3 distinct stages: Labor, Pushing, & Birth of the Placenta. The first stage of labor is broken down into 3 parts: Early, Active, and Transition... I know, it's kind of confusing. Today, we'll share all about the Active Phase of labor to better prepare you for your own birth marathon. If you're interested in delving further into the stages of labor, we recommend registering for our Confident Birth series or Weekend Intensive, offered in group & private settings. 

If you recall, we compared Early Labor to the first few miles of the marathon where you're finding your stride and own unique rhythm. When active labor hits, you'll begin to tap into your instincts and all the mental and physical training you've accomplished in pregnancy.