About Janet
"Birth was, and will always be, the most commonplace of miracles - an event at once familiar and phenomenal, timeless and immediate, briefly making angels of us all." - Call the Midwife (PBS)
PLEASE NOTE:
- CHILDBIRTH EDUCATION CLASSES ARE PRIVATE IN-HOME ONLY AT THIS TIME; I AM RESEARCHING SETTINGS FOR GROUP CLASSES
You will remember the day of your baby's birth for the rest of your life - how you felt, how you were treated, what was said and done to you and for you. A birth can be transforming and empowering, whether it is an intervention free home birth or an emergency cesarean section or anything in between. How can you become informed about the birth process, your options for labor, and how to be your own best advocate? Childbirth Education! My classes are based on Lamaze International’s “6 Healthy Birth Practices,” which are not the “huffing and puffing” depicted in comedies about birth! The goal for families, first and foremost, is to develop belief in the idea of birth as a normal, natural, and healthy process. Evidence-based discussions and activities cover pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and early parenting with the aim of empowering you with the tools you need for informed decision-making and self-advocacy. There is often a great deal of fear, anxiety, and uncertainty around birth, compounded by negative stories we hear from others as well as biased portrayals of birth in the media. Accurate information as well as learning about the power of our own bodies can replace this with confidence!
At the time of a baby's birth, a mother is also born. The postpartum period is a time of great joy but can also be overwhelming as the new mother recovers from birth while adjusting to the demands of round-the-clock newborn care. I am sensitive to the needs of these early weeks and want to make the transition to new parenthood as smooth as possible. I look to care for the family globally - new mother, father, other children - doing those things which need to be done so they can focus on recovery from birth and getting to know the new baby. I can offer evidence based support as you learn to care for your infant's needs. If you have chosen to breastfeed your newborn, I can assess the latching and feeding process, recognize any difficulties and make referrals as needed or requested. I also love animals and am a pet owner myself; I will happily walk your dog or care for your cat as part of my tasks!
I am the mother of two terrific young adult sons. My own birth and postpartum experiences were unexpectedly challenging, both physically and emotionally. A wonderful postpartum doula helped me find my confidence and enabled me to relax and grow into motherhood through her non-judgmental support and caring guidance. Her example and how she impacted my life stirred a passion in me to do the same for others. I feel so fortunate to have found a path that not only benefits others but brings me such incredible joy.
CREDENTIALS
Certified Birth Doula, DONA
Certified Postpartum Doula, DONA
Certified Lactation Counselor, Center for Breastfeeding
Certified, Hypnobirthing Support Techniques for Birth Professionals
Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator (LCCE)
Certified, Body Ready Method Professional
Hypnobabies Hypno-Doula
Certified VBAC Doula, The VBAC Link
Certified Newborn Specialist - NCTA
American Red Cross Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED