Coastal Fern Doula Collective

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Chemainus, BC
Coastal Fern Doula Collective

Providing service for all things related to birth and postpartum in the Cowichan Valley

04/09/2024

🌿 Being a doula means supporting parents through every step of their journey, including feeding their precious little ones. 🍼
As a mom of 3, I have 3 feeding stories of my own, and the first one isn't pretty. There were a lot of tears and a lot of struggle, but after many, many weeks, we were able to figure it out and continue on the path that worked for us. If you want to hear more about my story, please reach out!
With my nearly 8 year breastfeeding journey coming to an end with the recent second birthday of my youngest, there is a sense of loss as well. As a doula (and before that), I've been able to supply numerous babies with my milk to help them however I can. I am going to miss this side of breastfeeding dearly.
It's easy to scroll through social media and see picture-perfect moments, but behind the scenes, the reality is often filled with challenges and stress. From latch issues to sleepless nights, every feeding journey is unique and comes with its own set of hurdles. 💕 Remember, it's okay to ask for help and take things one feed at a time. You're doing an amazing job!

-Angela

03/07/2024

🏡✨ Embracing Home Birth: A Doula's Perspective ✨🏡

As a doula, I've had the privilege of supporting families through a variety of birthing experiences, and home births hold a special place in my heart. Home births are shown to be safe with a healthy mom and healthy pregnancy. There are studies I would be happy to share with you! Here are just a few reasons why I believe home birth can be a beautiful and empowering choice:

Comfort and Familiarity: Home is your sanctuary, where you feel most comfortable and at ease. Choosing to birth at home allows you to create a cozy and familiar environment, surrounded by the comforts of your own space.

Personalized Care: Home birth often involves personalized, one-on-one care from your midwife and birth team. With their undivided attention, you can feel confident that your wishes and needs are being prioritized throughout the birthing process.

Freedom of Movement: In the comfort of your own home, you have the freedom to move and labor in whatever position feels best for you. Whether it's walking, rocking, or soaking in a warm bath, you're free to follow your body's natural instincts.

Reduced Intervention: Home births typically have lower rates of medical intervention compared to hospital births, including lower rates of cesarean sections and interventions like epidurals and Pitocin. This can lead to a more gentle and unmedicated birthing experience for both you and your baby.

Postpartum Comfort: After the birth, you have the comfort of returning to your own bed and surroundings, without the hustle and bustle of a hospital setting. This can foster a smoother transition into postpartum recovery and bonding with your newborn.

While home birth may not be the right choice for everyone, it's important to explore all options and find the birthing environment that aligns best with your preferences and values. As your doula, I am here to provide information, support, and guidance as you navigate this journey. 💖🤰

02/29/2024

🥳 Exciting update! If you're enrolled in a health spending account via your workplace, you might be eligible to use it towards your investment. Verify your coverage details, and inform us during your initial call, ensuring we can provide you with all the information tailored to your needs!
Please let us know if you have any questions! Looking forward to working with you 😊

02/12/2024

To all the parents, especially the main caregiver. Remember: it's okay to take a breather and REST. Saying NO is a powerful act of self-care. Trust your instincts and do what FEELS right for you and your baby. Don't feel obligated to entertain guests—your space, your rules! Focusing on YOURSELF is not selfish, it's essential. And always remember, it's brave to ASK FOR HELP when you need it most. You've got this! 💕

11/08/2023

I'm not sure about you, but when I first heard the term "doula," I assumed that only meant birth support. I was excited to learn that there are so many more ways that a doula can help families! One of the ways we currently offer additional service is with postpartum doula work.
What is that, exactly? It really is up to you! We support 24/7 and can do whatever* it is that you need to be the best human you can.
Want to get a full night sleep? We got the night feeds/changes.
Want to sit with your baby? We can put on your laundry.
Want a moment with no human touching you? We get it, and we can help.
Contact us, and we can chat about what it is you need even if you're not sure what that might be right now.
We are happy to support families with infants up to 12+ months.

*with limitations.

10/03/2023

🌟 Understanding Pain Gate Theory 🚪🔑

Ever wondered how your body manages pain? 🤔 Enter the Pain Gate Theory! 🚪🔓

Here's the scoop: Our nervous system has a "gate" that can either amplify or diminish pain signals. 📈📉 When you experience pain, non-painful stimuli (like rubbing an injury) can close the gate and reduce your perception of pain. 🤯🙌

It's like your body's natural pain management system! 💪 We can use this Pain Gate Theory to our advantage when we are experiencing labour 😌💡

Here are a couple tips to try:

1. Breathing Techniques: Focus on deep, slow breathing to promote relaxation and reduce pain perception.

2. Counterpressure: Apply pressure to the lower back or other areas experiencing discomfort to stimulate non-painful sensations. Also using a comb and squeezing it at the base of your fingers (if you book with us, we provide a labour comb!)

3. Massage: Gentle massages or kneading can help distract from pain and release endorphins, the body's natural pain relievers.

4. Hydrotherapy: Soaking in a warm bath or using a shower can provide relief by altering sensory input and promoting relaxation.

5. Movement: Change positions frequently, such as swaying, rocking, or walking, to engage different sensory experiences and relieve pain.

6. Aromatherapy: Some scents, like lavender or chamomile, may help relax you and reduce the perception of pain.

7. Visualization and Guided Imagery: Imagining a peaceful place or positive outcomes can shift focus away from pain.

8. Acupressure: Certain pressure points may provide relief when stimulated correctly.

9.TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation): This device sends mild electrical pulses to disrupt pain signals. Ask us for more info

10. Medication and Epidurals: For more intense pain, consult with your healthcare provider about pain relief options like epidurals or pain medication.

Remember that every person's experience with labor pain is unique, and what works best may vary. Discuss your preferences and options with your healthcare provider to create a tailored pain management plan for your labor.

10/02/2023

🌟 Embrace the Power of a Doula 🌟

💖 Why hire a doula? Let's talk facts and feelings! 💖

🤰 Did you know? Studies show that having a doula can reduce the risk of Cesarean births by up to 28%, decrease the length of labor by 25%, and lower the need for pain medications. 💪

🌈 But it's not just about stats. A doula is your unwavering pillar of support, your calming presence in the storm of childbirth. 🌊

🤝 A doula is there to hold your hand, wipe your tears, and whisper words of strength when you need them most. 🌠

✨ They're your advocate, ensuring your voice is heard, your choices respected, and your birth experience empowering. 🗣️

🌻 So, why hire a doula? Because you deserve a birth filled with love, confidence, respect, and the unwavering support of someone who believes in your strength as much as you do. 💖

09/17/2023

Hello! I'm Tanya, one of the co-founders of Coastal Fern Doula Collective. I'm grateful to be part of the journey in providing families in the Cowichan Valley with a positive birthing experience they can cherish. I'm eager to connect with you!

09/15/2023

Hey there! My name is Angela, and I'm one of the founders of this doula collective. I am so excited to help families within the Cowichan Valley have a birthing experience they can look back on and be happy with. I look forward to chatting with you!

Address

Chemainus, BC

Telephone

+17783489277

Website

http://coastalferndoulas.ca/

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