25 Oct

Trunk-or-Treat Done Doula Style – Downtown Martinez, CA

FullSizeRender (2)Today, Bay Bee Birth Services partnered up with the lovely Megan Shinkle, Doula to hand out candy and other treats to children of all ages at the annual Downtown Martinez, Trunk-or-Treat event. We had a blast, and kids and parents alike loved our playful, Very Hungry Caterpillar theme.

 

FullSizeRender (1)We also lucked out and were placed directly next to the composting farmer, where the kids searched for worms and other fun stuff in the dirt.

Luckily, we even managed to squeak by with just enough treats for the 1,500+ kids we met! We can’t wait until next year! Bring on more candy..and kids!!!

Happy Halloween Week!

Jenny

P.S. Don’t mind our red faces, we were just working on our fall suntans…that’s right, in October!!! Rain, anyone? Buehler?

 

Jenny Bare, MPH, CLD, CCCLE, CHES

Certified Birth Doula & Childbirth Educator

Bay Bee Birth Services

06 Aug

Client Testimonial: Heather S. – Summer 2015

salter3Our family welcomed our second baby with Jenny by our side. I can’t say enough about how much her support guided and encouraged us through a wonderful minimal-intervention birth. I interviewed Jenny and was immediately sure that we were a good fit. It was so easy to connect with her and I felt confident that she would provide both the emotional and physical support I needed both during labor and pre/post-natal.

salter5

My labor started slowly and, as a second-time mom, I was reluctant to call Jenny to my house too early. Jenny’s doula intuition told her that I would be needing her sooner than I thought, so she drove over to just be in the area just in case I needed her. This really illustrated to me how committed she was to her role and also how completely she cares for her clients.

Jenny helped me stay home to labor as long as possible before heading to the hospital. She assisted me in finding positions that encouraged my labor to progress including using a “peanut ball” to get baby to move center into an optimal birth position. Her help timing contractions and gauging contraction intensity allowed me to focus on coping and enjoying the time laboring at home instead of worrying about when we should be leaving for the hospital.

salter4

Beyond the practical and physical support, Jenny was invaluable to me in providing emotional support. In fact, I was so relieved when she showed up wearing her “Let’s Doula This” t-shirt, I was brought to tears of happiness to have her positive encouraging presence. More than once during intense contractions, my eyes would lock with hers and she wordlessly communicated reassurance and comfort. With her support I was able to deliver without pain medication in spite of being unable to leave the hospital bed due to the need to monitor my high heart rate.

My husband and I really appreciated that she was constantly paying attention to what the medical staff were doing and saying so that she could communicate to us any pertinent information they might not convey so that we could voice any concerns.

salter1

I loved how Jenny went above and beyond the scope of her duties to help make our birth special. Early in labor I mentioned in passing an angle of a photograph that I had seen and was hoping to get when baby arrived. Sure enough, Jenny remembered to snap a picture of baby and mommy meeting at the exact angle I had mentioned. It’s my favorite picture of my baby’s birthday.

salter2

 

Overall, I cannot recommend Jenny to expectant parents enough! Call her!

09 Jun

Client Testimonial: Ashlie K. – Spring 2015

kirby1We chose Jenny Bare as our Doula for the birth of our first child at Kaiser Walnut Creek. It was absolutely one of the best choices we have ever made. After interviewing several Doulas, we chose Jenny because of her warm nature and professionalism. She presented information clearly, without judgment, and took the time to get to know us as a couple. I felt instantly comfortable with her and knew that she was the person I wanted by my side during one of the most vulnerable and special moments in my life.

kirby4Part of the reason we chose to hire a Doula is we wanted support in interacting with the hospital staff during our birth. Jenny quickly connected with all Kaiser staff and integrated herself beautifully as part of our support team. She brought out the best in everyone, including my husband and myself.  A second reason we chose to have a Doula was the benefit of comfort measures during labor. Jenny came with a full “bag of tricks” and supported me with many techniques that assisted me in managing my pain and feeling empowered in my body.

kirby7At multiple points in our labor, we came to crossroads where challenging decisions needed to be made. Jenny’s support allowed us to make informed choices free from fear. I was able to deliver without an epidural, which was a goal of mine, even though our daughter surprised us all by arriving “sunny-side up!” I am certain we would have made very different decisions had we not been in her care. Jenny was additionally a great support post-partum, continuing to provide me with valuable information about my newborn and my own healing body.  We cannot express fully the immense gratitude we feel for her role in bringing our beautiful daughter into the world.

kirby8kirby11

 

28 May

How Birth Doulas Help Moms Push Through

Birth is the unknown. That can seem scary to some people, but it’s true. Every birth and every momma is different. Of course, we all know what the end result will be…a baby! But how mommas all get to that end result is a different road. The unknown can also be exciting. The unknown is what many doulas love about their job! Putting together a wonderful birth support team is key in helping a mother to navigate anything and everything that happens during childbirth. Consider adding a doula to your birth team, because she (or he) has been there and done that. A lot. She’s excited with you or helps keep you (and your partner) calm, collected and informed if things get a little ‘hinky’. She often instinctively knows what you need during this emotion-filled time in your life. Her services may even be financially covered by your Flexible Health Spending Account! Score!

imagesN141KVY3Birth doulas, also known as labor doulas, work with you prior to having the baby so she can learn how to best support you and your partner during the labor. Doulas work with all types of families desiring all types of births – from planned cesareans in the hospital to non-medicated homebirths, women who want an epidural or other pain medications to women who definitely do not. Depending on what your birth wishes are, your doula has lots of local resources for you to help you along the way during your pregnancy and even after the baby is born. We’ll hook you up with some great pre-natal massage therapists, chiropractors, yoga instructors, mommy groups, placenta encapsulators, postpartum doulas and more!

One of a birth doula’s main responsibilities is to offer continuous support! That’s right – no shift change, no other patients to worry about, and no charting to handle. The focus is helping to make you, the mother, as comfortable as possible and to assist you and your partner to learn how to advocate for yourselves. In a 2013 study from Evidence Based Birth, with more than 15K participants, the best birth results occurred when women had continuous labor support from a doula. In other words, just having a doula present in the room contributed to an overall 34% decrease in the risk of being dissatisfied with the birth experience.

20141223_Wade_IMG_9742I’ve heard countless moms tell me they felt pressured or overwhelmed in the moment when it came to making a decision about the course of their care during labor. Doulas work to change that dynamic. They work to eliminate the rush, the fear, the pressure and oppositely create serenity. Serenity might sound like an oxy-moron when in labor, but doulas help you accept the process and truly know what’s happening so you feel more at ease. We. Get. You. Doulas do this by offering unbiased evidence-based information, various comfort and support measures, by reassuring you of the birth process, and by striving to facilitate clear communication between you and your care providers. It’s important to mention that the doula works alongside the healthcare team. A doula should not advise a mother to go against what a provider has said or offer her own opinion about a procedure. Instead, she will help you clarify all available options, risks and benefits and typically encourage the providers to give you a moment to process. Bottom line: You and your partner feel comfortable with the actions and procedures that are happening given your unique birth circumstances.

Having the presence of a doula shows a 28% decrease in the risk of C-section. Whether the baby is in an incorrect position, a mother is tired or has an emotional block…or a plethora of other reasons a cesarean is suggested, the doula not only helps you to explore all of your options, but is often skilled in many relaxation, breathing, movement and positioning techniques that can encourage the baby to settle into a more favorable birthing position. A doula helps you work through your emotions and aims to reinvigorate you to literally push through. She’s your cheerleader. She provides reassurance and praise through it all.

A doula does not, however, take the place of your partner. As previously mentioned, a doula is only a part of your birth support team. Each person plays an important role in the success of your birth. As with healthcare providers, doulas work alongside your partner, too. Specific maternal support is discussed prenatally so everyone’s roles are well-defined ahead of time. Doulas will offer your partner a break, look out for their well-being and give them tasks or strategies to help comfort you, if desired. To learn more about how partners and doulas work together, check out this article.

For more information about doulas or the next Doula Information Session date, visit www.baybeebirthservices.com or contact Jenny Bare, MPH, CLD, CHES at baybeebirthservices@gmail.com.

19 May

Do Doulas Need to be Certified?

01 CAPPA Certified ProudToBeDo Doulas Need to be Certified?

Do doulas need to be certified? The short answer is, no. Truthfully, anyone can say they are a doula. At this time, there is not a governing body that oversees certification requirements and ensures doulas follow a universal standard (but there is legislation in place working to change this!). This can contribute to why some hospitals are hesitant to have doulas in the room. Some “so-called” doulas may challenge the staff, speak on behalf of the patient, encourage patients to do things that go against medical advice, etc. I’m shaking my head because this is NOT what professional/certified doulas do at all. To learn more about what our role is, click here!

What are the benefits of hiring a certified doula? This depends, but to put it simply, the doula is required to maintain the Code of Conduct, Scope of Practice, etc., and complete an intense education and practical learning process of her (or his) governing organization, before being granted certification. In other words, you can be assured that your certified doula has been trained in a serious way! There are many training organizations for birth professionals. When pursuing training, a doula often selects an organization that most similarly aligns with her philosophy of offering services and maintaining her private practice. As a perspective client looking to hire a doula, you may ask the doula which organization she trained with and look into her program if you are curious.

On the flip side…There are many fabulous doulas who are not certified! *gasp* That’s right, some AMAZING doulas are not certified. Your doula may have been a doula for years and has more tangible experience than that of a professionally certified doula. Or, it’s possible the doula completed the professional training and did not go on to become officially certified. Or maybe your doula is in the process of becoming certified…it can take awhile.

In my case, I chose to pursue certification. I love that I am part of an organization of birth professionals that uphold very high standards and offer quality services for clients. To learn more about my certifying organization, visit: www.cappa.net. Furthermore, your momma instinct is going to tell you if you’ve found YOUR doula, certified or not!

*********************************************************************************************

Today, I received word that I am now an officially CAPPA Certified Labor Doula!!! I’ll add the fancy letters, CLD, behind my name. Throughout my journey as a doula, I have been so blessed to work with beautiful families as they bring their little ones into the world. I am grateful for each experience as it has contributed to the long road that has lead to me pursuing and completing this professional certification. THANK YOU to all of you who’ve contributed along the way!!! BIG hugs!!! – Doula Jenny

 

 

14 Apr

How big IS a newborn’s tummy?

newborn-stomach-smallCheck out this terrific visual graphic showing the size of a newborn’s stomach at birth, three days, one week and one month old! Seriously, this so wonderfully represents how tiny a newborn’s tummy really is, especially at birth. They do not need much breast milk to feel full…for about 45 minutes…and then it digests and they may want to eat again. In any case, don’t stress new moms! The majority of breastfeeding moms have plenty of milk to give their newborns. You can read more about breastfeeding tips and view the original source for this photo here.

06 Apr

FREE Doula Information Session: Sunday, April 26th at 7:00pm

Decoding Doulas: Birth Support for Every Expectant Mother

This open forum style workshop offers an opportunity for families to ask questions and learn about what a doula can do for you during childbirth. This is a learning session only. No selling, obligation or pressure whatsoever! Join Jenny Bare, of Bay Bee Birth Services for this FREE casual monthly 1-hour information session on:

Sunday, April 26th at 7:00pm at Yoga-Treat in Concord, CA.

Description: There is a lot to consider when having a baby, including who you wish to support you during your labor and birth. Numerous women and their partners find enormous reassurance and report a more positive birth outcome by having a doula (pronounced “doo-luh”) by their side. Did you know that many local healthcare providers are now recommending their patients seek out doula support? This session will cover the doula’s purpose and Scope of Practice, how doulas and dads/partners work together, general doula fee ranges, what the research says, common misconceptions, and helpful guidelines when making birth decisions. Finally, you’ll gain some tools to assist you in finding the right doula for you; including key interview tips and where to search in your area. Whether you’ve already considered hiring a doula for your child’s birth or if you’re simply curious, come check out this informative session. You may be surprised to learn that doulas are just as diverse as you are!

Location: I am super excited to be hosting this event at Yoga-Treat on the Concord/Walnut Creek border! They offer so many great classes (including childcare options) for families! The building is located behind Trader Joe’s. Yoga-Treat (In the Oak Grove Shopping Center Plaza) 2956 Treat Blvd, Suite B Concord, CA

RSVP’s for this event encouraged. To RSVP or for questions, please email baybeebirthservices@gmail.com or click here. Other children welcome. Partners encouraged to attend. We look forward to seeing you!

***Invite open to anyone who may be interested. Please feel free to forward.***

Bought to you by: www.baybeebirthservices.com, www.hhhints.com, and www.yoga-treat.com

09 Mar

De-Cluttering with Joy!

 

untitledhouseI was talking with a very wise friend of mine the other day about my attempt to de-clutter my life. She suggested only keeping material things around me that bring me true joy. She is right. This simple concept has been immensely helpful in getting rid of things.

Several years ago, I unexpectedly left my successful government job to care for my firstborn child. I’ve had at least one professional job, at all times since I was twelve…until my son needed me. Just like that, I went from a 40+ hour/week money-earning Health Education Consultant to a 24+ hour/day cuddle-earning mom. That. Was. Weird. and HARD. Not only did I have to adjust to being dependent on someone else for income for the first time in my adult life, but I also had to adjust to a baby being dependent on me for…everything. My wardrobe went from a sharp Banana Republic girl to throwing on whatever Target ‘boyfriend-style’ tee seemed clean paired with yesterday’s jeans. And the shoes went from fun to functional, if I even wore shoes that day. That meant leaving the house.

For over four years, my staunch button-up collared shirts, fancy slacks, tailored skirts and gorgeous shoes (Oh, the shoes!) patiently hid out in my closet, waiting to be coordinated into what was once a very strong part of my identity. I enjoyed dressing the part of a business professional each day. My job that used to be helping with infectious disease control had now morphed into managing TWO tiny humans. My daily triumphs now included keeping the children clean, fed and alive. Those were also my challenges. 🙂

Last summer, I made the decision to train as a skilled Birth Doula and Childbirth Educator. I love being a professional mom, but I also missed that sense of accomplishment and challenges my ‘day job’ brought me. I missed talking to people my height and using words containing more than one syllable. I also missed helping people – grown-up people and families.

Last week, I took a long hard look at my closet and realized that I was never going back to the person I was in my pre-kids life. I think I kept my professional attire around as a safety net, just in case I needed it. I finally realized I’m not her anymore. I’m now a successful doula!!!! As much as I once loved these clothes, the likelihood of me wearing much of this business-y apparel in my present profession is not only impractical, but more importantly, no longer entangled with my personal identity. Can you imagine me offering counter-pressure to a laboring momma in heels and a pant-suit?!? clothescluelessThe memories associated with many of these clothes are that of my former life. Do they bring me joy? They used to, but they don’t anymore. My own transformation into motherhood and now in seeing other women transition into motherhood has offered me more happiness and joy than any of my clothes ever did. My new work uniform, which consists of my company logo t-shirt, yoga pants and tennis shoes now bring me the most joy and more confidence than I’ve ever had in a job…aaaaand they are a lot more comfortable.

So, I challenge you to take a look around your home. What items bring you joy? When looking at something, think about the memories this item recalls. What emotions do you feel? If it’s not joy, then maybe it’s time to be enjoyed by someone else.

———-

Next up, sifting through the rest of my wardrobe. Watch out jeans – I’m coming for you! Oh, and in case you were worried, the shoes are still safe. A lady can never have too many pairs of shoes.

shoes2

03 Mar

Birth Doula Information Session: Sunday, March 22nd at 3:00pm

warning doula

 

FREE EVENT for all expectant parents!

Decoding Doulas: Birth Support for Every Expectant Mother!

Expecting a “bay-bee”? Did you know that many local healthcare providers are now recommending their patients seek out doula support?

Join Jenny Bare, of Bay Bee Birth Services for this FREE casual monthly 1-hour information session that breaks down what doulas can do for your birth experience, on either of the following dates:

  • Sunday, March 22nd at 3:00pm
  • Sunday, April 26th at 7:00pm

Location: I am super excited to be hosting this event at Yoga-Treat on the Concord/Walnut Creek border! They offer so many great classes (including childcare options) for families! The building is located behind Trader Joe’s.

Yoga-Treat (In the Oak Grove Shopping Center Plaza)
2956 Treat Blvd, Suite B
Concord, CA

 

Description:

There is a lot to consider when having a baby, including who you wish to support you during your labor and birth. Numerous women and their partners find enormous reassurance and report a more positive birth outcome by having a doula (pronounced “doo-luh”) by their side.

This session will cover the doula’s purpose and Scope of Practice, how doulas and dads/partners work together, general doula fee ranges, what the research says, common misconceptions, and helpful guidelines when making birth decisions. Finally, you’ll gain some tools to assist you in finding the right doula for you; including key interview tips and where to search in your area.

Whether you’ve already considered hiring a doula for your child’s birth or if you’re simply curious, come check out this informative session. You may be surprised to learn that doulas are just as diverse as you are!

RSVP’s for this event encouraged. To RSVP or for questions, please email baybeebirthservices@gmail.com, call 925-381-9563 or click here.