Posts by Christie Rinder
12 Steps to Prepare for a Successful VBAC
My first child was born via cesarean and my second child was born vaginally. Despite the odds we had a vaginal birth after a cesarean, aka VBAC! I gave birth in the comfort of my home with my husband, a licensed midwife (CPM) and my birth doula present. The journey from c-section to VBAC was full…
Read MoreCesarean Birth: What to Expect
Learning about cesarean birth, even if you are hoping to avoid it, is always a good idea. When I was taken for an emergency c-section, there was little time for anybody to explain things to me. I was grateful I had gained knowledge about cesarean birth in the birth classes I attended. As a first…
Read MoreHiring a Newborn Photographer: What to Look For
We are happy to welcome to our friend, Tampa Newborn Photographer, Melanie Amparo, as our guest blogger this month sharing her tips on what to look for when hiring a newborn photographer: CONGRATS! Your life is about to get a whole lot sweeter (and challenging)! You’ve landed here because you’re looking at hiring a newborn…
Read MoreAll About Childbirth Afterpains
Childbirth afterpains are one of those things that: “nobody tells you about!” So let me be the one to rectify that. When I first heard about childbirth afterpains, my mind went to the perhaps grim analogy of an earthquake. Forgive me. I grew up in Los Angeles, California where we did earthquake drills regularly in…
Read MoreNutrition During Pregnancy: Nourishing Yourself and Your Baby
We all understand that nutrition during pregnancy is important. Pregnancy is a time of immense growth and development for your baby, and proper nutrition is vital to ensuring that your little one gets the best possible start in life. Not only does good nutrition help support your baby’s growth and development, it also plays an…
Read MoreBringing Your Baby Home – Steps to Success
As you reach the end of your pregnancy the reality that you will be bringing your baby home soon is starting to set in and is exciting! Like most new parents in the nesting phase, you are probably busy preparing and getting things ready. Here are some things to consider getting done in advance to…
Read MoreBreastfeeding Red Flags
As a first time mom, breastfeeding my newborn baby felt like a beautiful continuation of our connection during pregnancy. However it was not without challenges. It’s common to feel nervous or unsure, and it’s natural to have questions about what to expect. You’ve never done this before! In the first few weeks, both you and…
Read MoreThe Golden Hour After Birth
The Golden Hour (or hours) refers to the immediate hour after you have given birth to your baby and the connection that takes place during this time. This quality time between you and your baby will have lasting effects on your relationship and how your baby adapts to their new environment. Your beautiful baby arrives…
Read MorePrenatal Care: What to Expect
Regular prenatal checkups are an important part of staying healthy while pregnant. During these visits your doctor, nurse or midwife will monitor your baby’s development and do routine testing to find and prevent potential complications. This is also a good time to ask questions and learn important information related to your pregnancy, labor and birth.…
Read MoreChoosing an OB/GYN or Midwife (Hospital, Birth Center or Homebirth)
Is an OB/GYN or a Midwife the best choice for your prenatal care? How do the different options affect where you will give birth? There are many factors to consider when choosing your prenatal care provider and your birthing location. In addition to taking into account your personal health history, it also comes down to…
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