Posts in Preparing for Birth
Ditch the Hospital Gown: Why birthing in your own clothes matters.

If you are giving birth in the hospital, wearing your own clothes the whole time you are there sends a strong and important message. It says: I am not sick. I am not a patient. I am a person first and foremost and I am here to give birth. And trust me when I say, nurses and providers get the message. It’s a simple, and beautiful thing!

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Welcome Sarah! S&B’s Lactation Counselor

We are thrilled to announce that we are leveling up our lactation support! Welcome to the team Sarah! Sarah’s inclusive and compassionate lactation support is the perfect addition to our one-stop birth collective.

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Hello, Labor Hormones! How Can I Help You?

Did you know that you have the power to influence your hormones and to help them better serve you and baby in childbirth? Yes, we can impact the flow of hormones throughout labor, and in such a way that helps us labor more gently and with manageable pain. So let’s talk about which hormones we want to boost, which we want to minimize, and how!

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Birth Doula 101: What Do Birth Doulas Do(ula)?

Doulas offer physical, emotional, and informational support to birthing persons and their partners. This invaluable doula support makes a difference, no doubt. Read along with us as we offer insight into what birth doulas do and why it matters!

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Doulas Make A Difference: Real Labor Scenarios | Grand Rapids Doula

Here are some labor scenarios based on actual experiences, alongside insight into how doula support makes a difference. May these stories from Annica's experience encourage you to trust in the process and empower you to embrace the wild and spontaneous nature of birth!

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Birth is Love: A Heartful Conversation
Preparing for Your Postpartum Journey | Sprout and Blossom Birth

When you’re in the throes of pregnancy, it’s easy to overlook the importance of postpartum planning. We’ll walk you through some advance preparations that will lend to a smoother (and more enjoyable!) postpartum experience.

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Your Birth Team Matters | Grand Rapids Doula + Birth Photographer

Don’t get me wrong, I do think that the process of making a birth plan is valuable. But your birth team matters more.

Find a doula who you trust…and then trust her knowledge of local providers.

With a doula and a clinical provider that you are really confident will support you, you will be set up the best you can be for the unknowns of your individual birth experience. Your birth team matters more than your birth plan.

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The Third Stage of Labor | The Birth of the Placenta | Grand Rapids Doula and Birth Photographer

Let’s talk about the third stage of labor - the birth of the placenta. Know what to expect during this process, and how to ensure you are set up for postpartum care for down there. The placenta is incredible.

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27 Tips for Early Labor | Grand Rapids Doula + Birth Photographer

After months of waiting, the first signs of labor can bring on quite a rush of emotion.

Excitement, anticipation, worry, restlessness, relief.

With all of my doula clients, I offer suggestions for some ways to prepare for this stage of labor. And today, I’m sharing them with you, too!

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The Story of Annica Marie Essentials

I am so excited to announce a new product line called Annica Marie Essentials!

Now available is a postpartum care package called The Care Bundle. This gift box is full of essential self-care items to get you or a mama you love through the first weeks with a new baby. 

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