EMPOWERED BIRTHING BLOG

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Baby in NICU holding a finger

Holding a baby's hand in the NICU

Many people picture the birth of a child as a peaceful time spent at home, wrapped in soft blankets and bonding quietly. For some families, though, that dream is quickly replaced by the sounds of hospital monitors, the smell of antiseptic, and seeing their newborn in a clear hospital crib.

​When a family’s path leads to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), it can feel overwhelming and uncertain. The medical team’s primary focus is the baby’s health and survival. But parents often need emotional support and help understanding what’s going on. That’s where a NICU Doula steps in to support families during this difficult time.
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Doulas joining hands

Doula teamwork

Why Long-term Night Support Works Best Through a Doula Agency

Many families reach out to us looking for several weeks of postpartum support—especially overnight care. This kind of support can be incredibly helpful during the early weeks after birth, but it also requires a level of capacity and coordination that a single doula usually can’t sustainably provide on their own.


Night Care Takes a Team

Overnight postpartum support is physically and emotionally demanding. Working nights for multiple weeks in a row without adequate rest increases the risk of exhaustion and burnout—even for the most experienced doulas. An agency ...

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Pregnant women holding her belly

The last weeks of pregnancy

In the last days and weeks of pregnancy, birthing parents can feel “on the brink”. Change is coming fast, even faster than the last several months of growing your baby. It can feel overwhelming, confusing, lonely, and also magical to think that the baby you’ve been growing for seemingly forever is almost here. Jana Studelska CPM/LM writes about the experience of these last few days as being a “distinct time of in-between.” Her blog post from 2012 is still one of our favorites to share with clients and friends who are in this tricky, emotional time. Are you about to give birth? Maybe for the first time? We recommend this read. Let us know your thoughts!
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Consider different birthing scenarios

Consider different birthing scenarios

​Preparing for birth is an exciting and emotional journey. For many families, creating a birth plan is an integral part of that process. But what exactly is a birth plan—and how can you make sure yours truly works for you? At Doula Nathalie & Associates, we view birth plans not as rigid scripts, but as flexible and empowering tools. They help families clarify their wishes, communicate with their care team, and feel more confident as they step into the unknowns of labor and birth.
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What are the pros and cons of induction?

What are the pros and cons of induction?

Induction: Benefits, Challenges, and the Role of a Doula
Bringing new life into the world is a personal and profound experience filled with anticipation and uncertainty. Expectant parents often face the decision of whether to allow labor to start naturally or to opt for a medical induction. While induction can offer a more predictable birth date, it also comes with challenges that parents should fully understand. This post will explore the induction process, its advantages and difficulties, and the important role of a doula in making the experience more positive and manageable.
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A diverse Doula team to support you

A diverse Doula team to support you

Why an Agency can be the best choice for your Birth and Postpartum journey? When preparing for childbirth and postpartum, selecting the right doula  can make a world of difference. As more families recognize the value of doula support, the choice between hiring a solo doula or going through a doula agency becomes a key decision. 
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Swaddled sleeping baby

Swaddled sleeping baby

One of the most common concerns for new parents is the sleep patterns of their newborn. Newborns tend to sleep a lot, but they also wake up frequently for feeding and diaper changes. Establishing healthy sleep habits is crucial for the well-being of both the baby and the parents.

​In this guide, we’ll explore why newborns sleep the way they do, how to soothe a fussy baby, and effective sleep training techniques.
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Women checking her blood pressure

Pregnant women checking her blood pressure

Risks, Causes and Supportive Doula Care
Embarking on the journey of pregnancy is a profound experience filled with anticipation and joy, but for some mothers-to-be, it also comes with unexpected challenges. Preeclampsia, a silent yet formidable complication, could be one of the challenges that  demands our attention and understanding during pregnancy. In this blog we briefly discuss what it is, who is at risk, symptoms, causes, the increased chances of C-section, and how a Doula can provide supportive care.
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Giving birth through a C-section

Giving birth through a C-section

Introduction
Childbirth is a profound and transformative experience in a person's life. While many envision a natural, vaginal birth, sometimes circumstances necessitate a cesarean section (C-section) to ensure the safety and well-being of both the mother and the baby. This blog explains why a doula can be invaluable mothers and partners before, during and after this surgical birthing process.
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Use of a peanut labor ball

Using a peanut birthing ball

Childbirth is an awe-inspiring and life-changing moment in a woman's life. Medical technology and birthing aids have made the birthing experience better for mothers and healthcare providers, despite the challenges. 

​One such remarkable tool that has gained popularity in recent years is the labor peanut ball. This simple tool is very effective in the delivery room. It helps mothers feel more comfortable and speeds up labor and delivery ...
Natalie Grolleman

Author

​After a career as ICU nurse and medical sales representative I followed my passion and became in 2018 a certified birth and postpartum Doula.

​The birth of my children, 2 in hospital and 1 at home, was a memorable experience. The first 2 took place in a hospital setting, with the first one being induced three weeks early due to medical reasons and the second arriving naturally around the due date. Our third child was born at home, offering another unique perspective on childbirth. ​

​Hopefully the work of our wonderful team and these blogs also help you to realize a positive birthing experience.

​Nathalie Grolleman CD/PCD(DONA)