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In the first episode of the Cradle and Coos Podcast, we have a candid conversation with Stephanie Mollinier, a highly experienced birth doula and coach. Stephanie sheds light on invaluable comfort measures, tips, and tricks for expectant parents as they embark on the birthing journey. Her passion for enhancing family experiences during childbirth is evident as she shares a range of coping strategies that prioritize comfort and support. Below, we highlight some of her expert advice from the wealth of wisdom she imparts in this conversation.
A little more about Stephanie: She is a Bay Area-based birth doula and childbirth educator. Stephanie also offers local classes at Blossom Birth and The Nesting Spot, where she teaches coping techniques that help parents leverage their own bodies to make the birthing experience smoother. She runs a private practice and has worked with hundreds of families across the Bay Area.
One of the key aspects of Stephanie's approach is building strong relationships with her clients. She explains, "As a doula, we get really close and we build really strong relationships with our clients and we really understand their wishes." This deep understanding allows Stephanie to advocate for her clients' needs and desires during the birthing process.
Who needs to learn birth coping techniques and why?
At the start of our conversation with Stephanie, we were eager to explore who should learn about birth coping techniques. The answer is: everyone.
Stephanie emphasized that coping techniques are essential for everyone involved in the childbirth process—not just for expectant mothers planning a vaginal birth, but also for those considering an epidural, as well as their support partners and birth coaches.
Her key message was that understanding and mastering coping techniques is vital, as labor is an intense experience requiring mental, emotional, and physical preparedness. Stephanie explained that regardless of the type of delivery—whether or not pain medication is involved—everyone in labor will need to "cope" at different stages, particularly in early labor when it may be too soon for medical interventions like an epidural. By familiarizing themselves with coping techniques, individuals can manage discomfort more effectively and enhance the overall birthing experience.
What’s in the Coping Techniques Toolkit?
In the podcast, Stephanie shares a variety of comfort measures that can help birthing individuals during early labor and throughout their hospital stay, whether they choose an epidural or not. Echoing the theme of individualized care, Stephanie reminds us that Every birth experience is unique, and what works for one person might not work for another. It’s all about finding what resonates with your body and your baby. Her message is clear: the value of personalizing comfort measures to fit the needs and preferences of the laboring parent cannot be overstated. However, here are some general techniques she highlights that can be helpful for parents in the absence of personalized support.
Visualization and Mental Focus:
Stephanie emphasizes the power of visualization and mental focus. She suggests that envisioning the process and focusing on positive outcomes can really fortify your mind against the challenges of labor, highlighting the importance of mental preparation.
Breathwork and Mindset:
Stephanie champions the power of breath and positive thinking, advising to just remember to be limp and loose. “So you have the contraction, and just let it be limp and loose—especially when it's over, just limp and loose like a ragdoll, right?” This simple mantra emphasizes the effectiveness of breath control and relaxation in managing contractions.
Movement and Positioning:
Mobility is important, and birthing individuals are encouraged to explore different positions. A simple change in posture or moving around can really shift comfort levels. Even with an epidural, "You can get in hands and knees for sure. You can get in a squatting position for sure. It just takes a lot of support and it takes a nurse who feels comfortable with that."
Hot and Cold Therapy:
The therapeutic use of temperature, such as hot packs or cold washcloths, can make a world of difference during intense moments, underscoring the accessibility and power of thermal comfort.
Water Therapy:
Water can also be incredibly comforting during labor. Whether it's a warm bath or a shower, it's like you can see the tension melting away from their bodies.
Touch and Massage:
Stephanie believes deeply in the healing power of touch. She observes that touch has such a profound impact. When a partner steps in to offer a gentle massage or just hold their hand, you can physically see the soothing effect, encouraging the use of nurturing touch throughout labor.
Pressure Points and TENS Unit:
Less conventional methods like pressure points and TENS units can offer a distraction or a different sensation. It's about being creative and seeing what resonates with the individual.
So…What Are Some Practical Tips for Expectant Parents?
Stay Informed:
Knowledge empowers parents to approach labor with confidence. As discussed in the podcast, understanding the birth process and the comfort measures available can really help reduce anxiety.
Practice Ahead:
Learning comfort measures during pregnancy can be highly beneficial. Having a few practices under your belt can make a big difference when the time comes. When you run a marathon, is that the first time you're running? It's kind of the same idea. We are practicing and training and trying and feeling good with it.
Communicate Your Preferences:
Sharing your envisioned birth plan with your support team is crucial. Make sure your team knows your preferences so they can support you in the best way possible.
Be Flexible:
Adaptability is key in childbirth. Labor can be unpredictable, so being open to change can actually be very empowering.
We truly appreciated having Stephanie Mollinier as a guest on our podcast, where she shared her valuable knowledge and experiences. Stephanie's expertise as a Bay Area-based birth doula and childbirth educator adds immense value to our Cradle and Coos network, and her dedication to supporting expecting families is remarkable. If listeners are interested in learning more about her services, or if they're eager to attend one of her classes or workshops, they can reach out to us at info@cradleandcoos.com
