The Walking Stick

12/08/2025

Check this out. This is why we provide evidence-based care and informed decision making over here at The Walking Stick! Let’s really talk about out what these numbers really mean. You deserve real care, not coercion.

12/05/2025

Did you know that midwifery care can significantly improve maternal health outcomes? 🌟 At The Walking Stick, we focus on equity and inclusion to ensure all families receive the care they deserve. Join us in advocating for better maternal health! 💖 Learn more at https://www.thewalkingstick.org/get-involved

Learn how you can be involved in the

12/02/2025

Informed decisions lead to healthier births! When it comes to childbirth, evidence-based practices can make all the difference. Discover how scientific research can shape a safer, more effective maternity care experience for you and your little one. Read more: https://wix.to/8uB4x7p

10/15/2025

An incredible new study found that pregnant women who consume just 6 dates a day in the 4 weeks leading up to their due date were 74% more dilated upon their arrival to the hospital, had a 77% shorter first stage of labor and a 42% lower rate of caesarean sections.

Eating dates in the late stages of pregnancy lead to higher cervical dilation upon hospital admission because the fruit contains nutrients that influence oxytocin receptors, preparing the cervix and uterus for labor by increasing muscle response to oxytocin and other labor-supporting hormones. Dates are a rich source of energy from natural sugars and fats and also contain prostaglandins, which contribute to cervical ripening. Additionally, they provide serotonin, calcium, and tannins, which contribute to powerful uterine contractions.

Eating dates in the late stages of pregnancy shortens the first stage of labor due to their ability to stimulate the production of prostaglandins, which promote cervical ripening (softening and thinning of the cervix) and increase uterine contractions. Dates also contain tannins, which have a similar effect, and provide a natural sugar source for energy during labor. Some studies even suggest that dates can increase uterine sensitivity to oxytocin, leading to more effective contractions and a quicker and smoother labor process.

These actions are also the exact reason why women who eat dates in the late stages of pregnancy and far less likely to need a c-section!

The most common recommendation is for women to begin eating 6 dates a day starting in their 37th week of pregnancy.
PMID: 40322306, 21280989

SEE ALSO: https://www.pelvicphysio.co.nz/the-sweet-secret-to-a-smoother-labour-dates

07/26/2025

The Walking Stick is accepting new clients for 2026!!! Schedule your meet and greet today! 🧡

07/23/2025

Discover how The Walking Stick Midwifery Care is making a difference in our community! We provide essential support and advocacy for Black and Brown families. Visit our website to learn more about our services and how we can help you or a loved one! 🌟💖

07/16/2025

The Walking Stick is looking for birth assistants! Please reach out if you’re interested 🧡

06/30/2025

Join us for the Car Seat Safety Check Point!! This is our inaugural event and we wanna invite you out to make sure those vehicles have your babies nice and secure. Meet us at 5550 Reading on July 25th from 10-4 PM and get your car seat’s install assessed for its safety. You can even get it re-installed on the spot for FREE!

We hope to see you there! RSVP with the QR code!

04/12/2025

Stay in touch with The Walking Stick Midwifery Care! Book your consultation or childbirth education class with Meredith today!

LCPM @ The Walking Stick Midwifery Care

02/07/2025

Mark your calendars!