Empower Her. - Doula + Photographer

08/14/2023

A midwife's notebook..

"1:46 TOB"

That is time of birth.

Anyone wanna guess what time I arrived and took the first photo?

Hint: It was her 5th baby. 😅

06/06/2023

Happy National Homebirth Day!

If you know a woman who has had a homebirth, remind her how strong she is! 💪🏻

06/02/2023

*send this to your birth support partner*

5 ways they can help support you during labor:

1. Making sure your birthing space is perfect - this one may seem small, but your environment effects your mindset, and your mindset is key to thriving during labor. This is something you should talk about beforehand, but they can take over when the time comes. Twinkling lights, soothing music, pleasant smells, low light.. whatever they can do to keep the peace in your area!
2. Providing physical support - this can take many forms and may take some trial and error to see what works for you. Some examples include counter pressure, massage, cold or heat packs, swaying together, fanning, holding hands, etc.
3. Speaking words of affirmation - sometimes a simple "you got this. I am here for you. You are safe." can make a huge difference in your mindset. When preparing for birth you can provide your partner with some affirmations or phrases you like! Print them off, make a list on their phone, or order some affirmation cards.
4. Knowing your birth plan - This one might seem obvious, but your partner should know your birth plan (including backup preferences) as well as you do. During your third trimester, review every part of your plan with them and explain what is the most important to you and why. Then, during labor they will be able to better advocate and provide for you!
5. Learning to read your body - Your partner likely can already read your body language, however some of this may be learned during labor. They should be aware of your body language at all times to recognize the stage of labor you are in, how comfortable you are, and what kind of support you need at the moment.

Of course, this list is just a guideline and there are many ways your partner can be a great support person!

Hope this helps!

05/30/2023

"We're just gonna give you this medication.."
"I'm just gonna check your cervix.."
"We're just gonna break your waters to get things moving.."
"I'm just gonna do a little episiotomy.."

"Just gonna" does not equal informed consent.
Informed consent does not involve fear mongering, bossing, telling, flexing your authority, or shaming.

Choosing a provider that practices evidence-based care and works with you to help you decide what is best for you and your baby is SO important.

05/16/2023

No matter what season of life you are in, know that it is fleeting.

Whether you are trying to conceive, pregnant, or in the trenches of motherhood, know that this season is serving you in the ways it is supposed to be.

Embrace it all, the good and the not-so-good.🖤

05/15/2023

Raise your hand if you've ever suffered from the dreaded morning sickness? 🙋‍♀️

My suggestions for natural remedies:

1. Ginger in any form - Ginger tea, ginger in your smoothie, ginger candy, ginger ale, and ginger supplements are all great options!
2. Peppermint EO - Sniffing peppermint oil is great for reducing nausea and vomiting. Dilute and apply under your nose or under your nose, make peppermint cold rags, or sniff straight from the bottle!
3. Preggie Pops - These all-natural hard candies are great for keeping nausea at bay. They contain a blend of essential oils and botanicals both proven and known for their nausea fighting power.
4. Isopropyl alcohol - Isopropyl alcohol or "rubbing alcohol" is an underrated cure for nausea! While it is not a long term solution, it does act pretty fast in those times of need. Keeping individual alcohol pad packets in your bag or purse could come in pretty handy during your first trimester!
5. Complex carbohydrates - Eating small meals throughout the day can keep your stomach a bit happier, but for even more relief add in complex carbs where you can! These include whole wheat bread, pasta, bananas, and green, leafy vegetables.
6. Carbonation - Staying hydrated is always important, but sometimes when you're fighting that dreaded nausea carbonation can also help. To cut back on added sugars and other ingredients, try a carbonated water like LaCroix!

Hope this helps! 🖤

05/14/2023

Sending *everyone* love on this holiday 🖤

Celebrate (or survive) the day the way that is best for you.

05/06/2023

Come see me and the other vendors at JKSN Community Baby Shower TODAY

05/05/2023

04/29/2023

Pregnancy cravings are REAL and they can get a bit weird sometimes! 😜

What were your strongest cravings?

My first: I had more aversions than cravings but I did enjoy a nice cold Coke
My second: a BLT and lemon-lime gatorades
My third: a house salad with ranch EVERY DAY

04/22/2023

TSHIRT ORDER:

Order an Empower Her. shirt to help fund doula services for a mother who may need but cannot afford them.

Shirts are Gildan Unisex Softstyle Tshirts in Ice Grey.
Front-only design.

$25 + $5 for shipping if needed (local pickup available)

To order please comment or message your size(s) needed and if you would like shipping or pickup.

Payment Options:

Cash
Check
Venmo:
PayPal: maceemurleyphoto@gmail.com
CashApp: $MaceeMurley
*friends and family only please*

Order will close when we reach 60 shirts or on May 10th.