Birth With Kristin

Wishing you all health, love and happiness this holiday season . Big virtual hugs from my family to yours. Photos by @communityphotography_

Beautiful reminder via @doulawisdom

MY BABY / / You were the baby. Our first. Our only, for a time.... Until you weren’t. Until another came along. And then, just like that, you were big. So big. The baby you once were now long gone. And I was shocked. So shocked. Because everyone had told me, but I never believed them. They told me that all of the sudden you’d seem so huge. That I might hold you funny, forgetting your neck didn’t need supporting. That I’d likely be amazed by all the things you were capable of doing. That I would look at you, tears in my eyes, wondering where in the world my baby had gone. But they forgot to tell me. They forgot to tell me that you would always be my baby. That despite the fact that you seemed so big, you were really still so little. That even thoughin a moment’s timeyou became the oldest, you weren’t quite ready to have so much expected of you. That another baby didn’t make you any less of a baby. That you still needed more time as my baby, too. So tonight, I’ll hold you close. I’ll breathe you in. I’ll kiss your cheeks and thank God for you, my first. And I’ll remind myself once more that you’ll never, ever be too old to be my baby. words via @stylish.bump (Image by the beautiful @little.travel.tribe ) #birthdoula #deltadoula #vancouverdoula #vancouvermom #birthphotography #birthpreparation #birthwork #doulamagic #doulalife #doulas #doulaservices #doulalife #birthwithkristin #newmoms #newmomlife #motherhoodrising #pregnancylife #pregnancyjourney #doulasupport #postpartumsupport #postpartum #firstfortydays #childbirth #birthprocess #birthkeeper #birthstory #birthyourway #thisispregnancy #firstborn #mybaby

Do you know someone who just had a baby? Wondering how you can help new parents? These are some of my favourite, small gestures that go a long way in supporting parents in the postpartum period... Bring dinner/food (bonus points if it’s take out from their favourite restaurant) When you come for a visit wash your hands If they have one, take the dog for a walk Keep your visit short Do some laundry or dishes Offer to hold the baby so birthing person can shower Make them tea/a warm drink Ask how they’re doing and ensure you’re focused on just them and their answer (yes, I know newborns are adorable and distracting, but new parents need attention, too!) LET THEM SLEEP Take other kids out Bring your own coffee/drink and clean up after yourself And at the end of the day what most new parents want is support and to feel understood! I always say one of the best things is to just do SOMETHING that will create a little bit of ease in their daysmall acts make a huge difference. I know things are wildly different with the state of the world right now, but please keep in mind that so many of these things can be done at a distance to still support new parents! What things would you add to this list?? Drop them in the comments below! If you’re looking for support through pregnancy and postpartum I would love to chatcontact me via the link in my bio. #birthdoula #deltadoula #vancouverdoula #vancouvermom #birthphotography #birthpreparation #birthwork #doulamagic #doulalife #doulas #doulaservices #doulalife #birthwithkristin #newmoms #newmomlife #motherhoodrising #pregnancylife #pregnancyjourney #doulasupport #postpartumsupport #postpartum #firstfortydays #childbirth #birthprocess #birthkeeper #birthstory #birthyourway #thisispregnancy #supportnewparents

Birth affirmations are a powerful tool that you can implement into your daily practice while pregnant. You can say them out loud, meditate on them silently or write them downchoose the method that you feel most drawn to. Using statements and mantras that you connect and resonate with will help to guide your conviction. Some of my personal favourites include:... I can do this I am strong I am safe I welcome each surge My body was made to do this My mind and body are relaxed I trust in my ability to birth my baby My body and my baby work in perfect harmony Release and relax Each surge brings my baby closer to me Breathe Did you use affirmations during your birth? What were your favs?? #birthdoula #deltadoula #vancouvermom #birthphotography #birthpreparation #birthwork #doulamagic #doulas #doulaservices #doulalife #birthwithkristin #newmomlife #motherhoodrising #pregnancylife #pregnancyjourney #doulasupport #postpartumsupport #postpartum #firstfortydays #childbirth #birthprocess #birthkeeper #birthstory #birthyourway #thisispregnancy #affirmations #iam #dailypractice

Leaning into those small, in-between momentsMoments where we can still find calm, joy and quiet amid the noise of the world around us. What’s your favourite way to ground yourself and find your calm?

Why did you choose a home birth?? I’ve had this asked of me so many times! Usually followed by Weren’t you afraid if there was an emergency? ... What if something went wrong? Don’t you feel safer in a hospital? And honestly, I asked the same questions when I was pregnant with my first daughter, Monroe! But, after diving into the research and reflecting on my hospital birth, we decided to have our second daughter, Goldie, as well as our son Ace, at home. Why I decided home birth was right for us. I had a healthy pregnancy I felt confident in my body I trusted my bodies ability to birth as many before me had done I felt safer to birth at home We didn’t need to decide when do we go to the hospital!? I know where everything is in our house! We didn’t need to put our new baby in a car seat All the food and drinks were accessible I had a clean and comfortable home to rest easy in Our other kids could be present if needed/wanted I was free to walk around and flow with the sensations of birth in a way that felt natural to me Option to birth in the water At the end of the day the decision of where to birth your baby is yours! I’m here to provide resources and support for you to make an informed choice that works best for you and your family! Do you have questions about home birth?? Leave a comment, send me a DM or contact me via the link in my bio! #birthdoula #deltadoula #vancouverdoula #vancouvermom #birthphotography #birthpreparation #birthwork #doulamagic #doulalife #doulas #doulaservices #birthwithkristin #newmoms #newmomlife #motherhoodrising #pregnancylife #pregnancyjourney #doulasupport #postpartumsupport #postpartum #firstfortydays #childbirth #birthprocess #birthkeeper #birthstory #birthyourway #thisispregnancy #trustyourbody #homebirth #informedchoice See more

Portfolio Building Birth Photography Package I’m absolutely obsessed with all things photography and am particularly tuned in to Birth Photography. I know from experience just how special it is to have photos of your birth journeyI love how photos of such a cherished moment can be savoured forever. As I build on my craft I’m offering a promotional Portfolio Building Birth Photography Package for my next few clients! ... What’s included? Consultation prior to discuss birth plan and photography wants + needs 24 hour on-call birth support Photo documentation during birth and 1-2 hours post birth 50+ edited photos 1 birth announcement photo within 24 hours Investment is $600 and you must be willing to have photos shared on my website + social media platforms. Interested in learning more?? Contact me to via the link in my bio #birthdoula #deltadoula #vancouverdoula #vancouvermom #birthwork #doulamagic #doulalife #doulas #doulaservices #birthwithkristin #newmoms #newmomlife #motherhoodrising #doulasupport #postpartumsupport #postpartum #firstfortydays #childbirth #birthprocess #birthkeeper #birthstory #birthyourway #positivebirth #birthphotography See more

We’ve all heard of the many benefits of skin-to-skin contact between Mom and babe immediately following birth, but these benefits are not just reserved for the birther! The benefits of skin-to-skin with Dad or another close caregiver is also vitally important. So often we associate this practice with mom and breastfeeding, but when a father has the opportunity to hold their baby close, we see the love hormone, oxytocin doing its part in creating the natural bond between ...parent and child. Being warm and snug in the arms of a loving caregiver is your baby’s favourite place to be in their early days (and beyond!). They’re often more content and sleep better when they’re skin-to-skin, their body temperature and heart rate regulate, and their immune system is boosted. So, partners, don’t be hesitant to share is this beautiful connection with your babeyour little one will be incredibly happy feeling the warmth of your skin and hearing the familiar thump of a heartbeat. Did you and your partner both share this connection with your little one after birth? by me #birthdoula #deltadoula #vancouverdoula #vancouvermom #birthphotography #birthpreparation #birthwork #doulamagic #doulalife #doulas #doulaservices #doulalife #birthwithkristin #newmoms #newmomlife #motherhoodrising #pregnancylife #pregnancyjourney #doulasupport #postpartumsupport #postpartum #firstfortydays #childbirth #birthprocess #birthkeeper #birthstory #birthyourway #thisispregnancy #skintoskin #connection See more

Those perfect little newborn fingers and toes Welcome to the world, baby Charlie! by me

The Fourth Trimester This is a time for a birthing person to be nurtured and cared for, as much, if not more, than during pregnancyyet so often it can feel as if we’re left to learn and do it all on our own. It’s time for the way we view postpartum care in our healthcare system to shift. New parents need support and careto be surrounded by a community of people who are there to nurture you, bring you food/cook for you, help with baby, clean the house, run errands...I coul...d go on and on! Having a support system in place before you give birth sets you up for a smooth transition into new parenthood, allows you the time and space to HEAL and bond with baby. Be it family, friends or a postpartum doula, ensure you have these people in place before babe arrives! Kimberly Ann Johnson says it beautifully; it’s time to shift back to a previous time when [people] took care of each other. Before [we] thought we were superheroesand that what made us superheroes was doing everythingwe were helping each other, so that as a group, we could collectively thrive. Let’s thrive together! Tell me in the comments what was the BEST thing you had done for you or something you did for yourself during the Fourth Trimester? (Graphic inspired by @betterpostpartum and beautiful illustration by @o_trocatintas) #birthdoula #deltadoula #vancouverdoula #vancouvermom #birthphotography #birthpreparation #birthwork #doulamagic #doulalife #doulas #doulaservices #doulalife #birthwithkristin #newmoms #newmomlife #motherhoodrising #pregnancylife #pregnancyjourney #doulasupport #postpartumsupport #postpartum #firstfortydays #childbirth #birthprocess #birthkeeper #birthstory #birthyourway #fourthtrimester

Home Birth There is something so magical about being in your own spacefamiliar smells, feels, sounds, and comfortshaving full control over my environment and the freedom to move and flow through the waves in a way that felt natural to me is what drew me to home birth. Scientific research shows that home birth is considered not only as safe, but potentially safer for low risk, healthy pregnant people. The home birth experience supports the physiological birth expe...rience and results in less medical interventions than hospital births. After experiencing one hospital birth and two home births of my own, I have learned so much about advocating for myself and now for the birthers I support. Being educated and confident in yourself allows you to make informed choices when it comes to your pregnancy and birth. As your doula, I’m there to support you, advocate for you, and provide you with my abundance of resources to assist you in making informed decisions. Are you pregnant and wanting to learn more about your birthing options? Contact me via the link in my bio to book a free consult! I would love to chat with you about all things pregnancy, birth and postpartum. (Photo by @makingfaces) #birthdoula #deltadoula #vancouverdoula #vancouvermom #birthphotography #birthpreparation #birthwork #doulamagic #doulalife #doulas #doulaservices #doulalife #birthwithkristin #newmoms #newmomlife #motherhoodrising #pregnancylife #pregnancyjourney #doulasupport #postpartumsupport #postpartum #firstfortydays #childbirth #birthprocess #birthkeeper #birthstory #birthyourway #thisispregnancy #trustyourbody #homebirth See more

Vernixaka birthday frostingtypically begins to accumulate in the last trimester of pregnancy to protect baby in utero. This incredible coating of armour offers a wide array of benefits for babe while they’re snug inside and then after birth, as well. So often we see images of a baby being whisked away shortly following birth to clean them up, but that thick white substance is far too magical to scrub off a newborn’s skin! Not only is it a barrier against amniotic fl...uid in utero and a natural lubricant while journeying through the birth canal, but it has so many benefits after birthIt keeps baby’s skin moisturized, protects against germs, helps to regulate body temperature, and helps their skin adapt to the outside world By delaying baby’s first bath you’re allowing time for the vernix to work it’s magic and make your little one’s transition earthside that much smoother. (Photo sources: @birthbecomes and @midwifeonduty_) #birthdoula #deltadoula #vancouverdoula #vancouvermom #birthphotography #birthpreparation #birthwork #doulamagic #doulalife #doulas #doulaservices #birthwithkristin #newmoms #newmomlife #motherhoodrising #pregnancylife #pregnancyjourney #doulasupport #postpartumsupport #postpartum #firstfortydays #childbirth #birthprocess #birthkeeper #birthstory #birthyourway #vernix #homebirth #positivebirth #birtheducation See more

What are some of your favourite pregnancy / postpartum books?? These ones are on the top of my recommendation list for clients The First Forty Days - Heng Ou, Amelia Greeven, Marisa Belger... The Fourth Trimester - Kimberly Ann Johnson Like a Mother - Angela Garbes Bountiful, Beautiful, Blissful - Gurmukh I love providing my clients with resources suited to their individual needsif you’re looking for support during pregnancy, birth and postpartum, contact me via the link in my bio

Birth Uprising speaking truths Trust that your body knows how to birth your baby you were literally made for this! Head over to @birthuprising to read their full post on this incredibly important subject

http:// Golden Hour That beautiful time right after baby is welcomed earthside. It’s so important for the family to be undisturbed in these momentsthe space to pause, breath and connect as a new family. Bearing witness to and capturing these incredible moments as both a doula and birth photographer is pure magic ... If you’re interested in learning more about how I can support you in your pregnancy, birth and postpartum journey, contact me via my websitelink in bio #birthdoula #deltadoula #vancouverdoula #vancouvermom #birthphotography #birthpreparation #birthwork #doulamagic #doulalife #doulas #doulaservices #doulalife #birthwithkristin #newmoms #newmomlife #motherhoodrising #pregnancylife #pregnancyjourney #doulasupport #postpartumsupport #postpartum #firstfortydays #childbirth #birthprocess #birthkeeper #birthstory #birthyourway #goldenhour

http:// Contraction When you hear this word, how does it make you feel? Does it make you feel afraid, scared, and worried about the pain? How does your body react? Do you notice any tension being held?... When you are in the birth process, feeling these contractions, it’s not helpful to use this word if it bothers you or elicits a negative or tense response. So, let’s choose a different word! If you hear the words: waves, sensations or surges do you feel more relaxed, less fearful and more in control of your body and mind? As a result, can you see how one would then feel more powerful, positive and perhaps even delighted? Words are powerful, especially in this process. The power of words and how they can impact our mind and body’s overall feelings and responses are incredible. When you enter the birth realm, it is very important to remain as calm and at ease in your mind and body as possible. Changing the words we use to describe various sensations and aspects of the process can have a big impact on our experiences and outcomes. If you want to learn more about choosing more helpful, positive language in the birth setting and are looking for support in preparing for your upcoming birth, book a complimentary consultation online Link in bio #birthdoula #deltadoula #vancouverdoula #vancouvermom #birthphotography #birthpreparation #birthwork #doulamagic #doulalife #doulas #doulaservices #doulalife #birthwithkristin #newmoms #newmomlife #motherhoodrising #pregnancylife #pregnancyjourney #doulasupport #postpartumsupport #postpartum #firstfortydays #childbirth #birthprocess #birthkeeper #birthstory #birthyourway #thisispregnancy #waves #sensations See more

Upon awakening, let the words ‘Thank You’ flow from your lips, for this will remind you to begin your day with gratitude and compassion. -Wayne Dyer

My partner is the biggest source of oxytocin What does this mean? Well, to put it simply, how you got baby in, is a good way to get baby out! Kissing, touching and getting close to your partner can stimulate oxytocin production and aid you in progressing through the different stages of pregnancy and birth. So, love on your partner! It not only nurtures the bond between the two of you, but this Love Hormone helps mama and baby bond, as well! ... I know growing up I always heard stories about the birthing woman getting very upset with their partner Saying things like, You got me into this mess, Don’t touch me, Get away from me Can anyone else relate to these statements? But, I believe pregnancy and birth to be so much better when you and your partner can be close, spread the love and amp up those love hormones. What an amazing way to connect and be together as you embark on the journey of parenthood together. ( by @makingfaces) #birthdoula #deltadoula #vancouverdoula #vancouvermom #birthphotography #birthpreparation #birthwork #doulamagic #doulalife #doulas #doulaservices #doulalife #birthwithkristin #newmoms #newmomlife #motherhoodrising #pregnancylife #pregnancyjourney #doulasupport #postpartumsupport #postpartum #firstfortydays #childbirth #birthprocess #birthkeeper #birthstory #birthyourway #thisispregnancy #oxytocin #lovehormone See more

Are you pregnant and looking for support through your birth and postpartum? My job as a doula is to support the needs of the birther and the support partner. I am there to create a safe birthing environment (in home or hospital!), so you can feel comfortable to let go and focus on allowing your body to do the work. I still have a few spots available over the next 6 months! Book a free consultation call via the link in my bio to explore how I can support you and your famil...y through this exceptionally exciting process. October 1 Spot Available November 2 Spots Available December Full January Full February 2 Spots Available March 2 Spots Available (Second photo by the talented @makingfaces) #birthdoula #deltadoula #vancouverdoula #vancouvermom #birthphotography #birthpreparation #birthwork #doulamagic #doulalife #doulas #doulaservices #doulalife #birthwithkristin #newmoms #newmomlife #motherhoodrising #pregnancylife #pregnancyjourney #doulasupport #postpartumsupport #postpartum #firstfortydays #childbirth #birthprocess #birthkeeper #birthstory #birthyourway #thisispregnancy #hospitalbirth #homebirth See more

How do I know when to call the midwife or head to the hospital? This is a common question. So many people are afraid or unsure about when to make the call to their care provider. Some fear calling or heading to the hospital too early. Or some fear the opposite, and don’t want to call or get there too late. I notice there is a lot of fear and uncertainty around this - I understand! For some, it’s the false alarm, fear of disrupting others or it simply being too soo...n/late. The fear of being sent home after going to the hospital because you jumped the gun and went too soon. Or showing up earlier than necessary and then it leading to a cascade of interventions you may not have been offered or had otherwise if you’d stayed home longer. As your doula, this is something we will go over together. I will teach you how to know when it's appropriate to call the midwife (or doctor) if you are having a home birth or hospital birth, and when to head to the hospital. Doulas can even make the phone call for you if you want! This is just one way having doula support at your birth can help you feel safe and confident in the decisions you are making. Curious to learn more about my doula support services? Book a free consultation online, link in bio. (image source unknown) #birthdoula #deltadoula #vancouverdoula #vancouvermom #birthphotography #birthpreparation #birthwork #doulamagic #doulalife #doulas #doulaservices #doulalife #birthwithkristin #newmoms #newmomlife #motherhoodrising #pregnancylife #pregnancyjourney #doulasupport #postpartumsupport #postpartum #firstfortydays #childbirth #birthprocess #birthkeeper #birthstory #birthyourway #thisispregnancy #hospitalbirth #homebirth See more

Linea Nigra (latin for black line) is a dark vertical line running down the middle of the abdomen that can develop during pregnancy. So, what causes this and why?? It all comes down to hormones - specifically an increase in estrogen, which has a direct effect on the melanocyte stimulating hormone created by the placenta. These hormonal changes facilitate the darkening of the nipples so that baby is able to see their target for breastfeeding. One theory regarding the dev...elopment of the Linea Nigra is that it helps the baby find the breast after birth; the dark line of Linea Nigra acts as a map from mom’s pregnant belly up towards the darkened areola for baby to latch on - how wild is that!? Did you develop Linea Nigra during pregnancy? (Photo source: @my_wild_foxx) #birthdoula #deltadoula #vancouverdoula #vancouvermom #birthphotography #birthpreparation #birthwork #doulamagic #doulalife #doulas #doulaservices #doulalife #birthwithkristin #newmoms #newmomlife #motherhoodrising #pregnancylife #pregnancyjourney #doulasupport #postpartumsupport #postpartum #firstfortydays #childbirth #birthprocess #birthkeeper #birthstory #birthyourway #thisispregnancy #nowyouknow #lineanigra See more

Waves and birth aren’t linear - each wave and each ripple has its own uniqueness and lasting impression. During my hospital birth with Monroe the waves were long and felt like they were one on top of the other. I welcomed Goldie at home where the waves came in fast and furious - quickly and one after the other. Ace was another completely different experience; it was fast, but so incredibly powerful and left me feeling ecstatic. Waves are not always symmetrical, but the...y are constant It is in their consistency that there is assurance. The same goes for the sensations of birth. Embracing these sensations and feeling supported throughout the birth process enables the birther to flow with their natural rhythm. I love bearing witness to the magic that can unfold when a birther is supported and cared for in a way that works best for them. If you’re looking to build your support system reach out to me via the link in my bio #birthdoula #deltadoula #vancouverdoula #vancouvermom #birthphotography #birthpreparation #birthwork #doulamagic #doulalife #doulas #doulaservices #doulalife #birthwithkristin #newmoms #newmomlife #motherhoodrising #pregnancylife #pregnancyjourney #doulasupport #postpartumsupport #postpartum #firstfortydays #childbirth #birthprocess #birthkeeper #birthstory #birthyourway #thisisbirth #birthvibes #supportsytem See more

http:// My logo - The three waves The birthing process is all about riding the waves between sensations - rise, peak and recede - just like the waves of the ocean. The waves not only represent the birth process, but each of my children - Monroe, Goldie and Ace. I’m passionate about supporting expectant moms throughout their pregnancy and into postpartum. I look at each birth as a unique experience and provide birthers with the encouragement and reassurance that best supp...orts them. Are you looking for support during pregnancy and postpartum? Visit my website to learn more about my doula services or click the link in my bio to book a free consultation #birthdoula #deltadoula #vancouverdoula #vancouvermom #birthphotography #birthpreparation #birthwork #doulamagic #doulalife #doulas #doulaservices #doulalife #birthwithkristin #newmoms #newmomlife #motherhoodrising #pregnancylife #pregnancyjourney #doulasupport #postpartumsupport #postpartum #firstfortydays #childbirth #birthprocess #birthkeeper #birthstory #birthyourway #familyiseverything See more

Oh Monroe today you turned 5.... I can not believe it the little girl who made me a mama! I’m so blessed you chose to walk this life with me, with us and our family. You love everyone and all things. You are strong willed and determined. You have a goofy sense of humour and have been taking this full time kindergarten role in stride. You are the best big sister and I love how fashionable you are. Definitely takes after her mama ...Beating to your own drum!!!! You are so artistic I love it but let’s be honest the mess - that’s a hard one for me. Sparkle and shine baby girl forever and always. #thisisfive #monroefrankierae #mygirl #doulamom #doulamagic #doulalife #doulawisdom #doulasupport

My first baby all grown up and off to kindergarten today!!!! I am so proud! @monroefrankierae