Intrauterine insemination
Natural Family Planning
Natural Family Planning (NFP) refers to methods used to achieve or avoid pregnancy based on the observation of natural signs and symptoms of fertility. Unlike artificial contraception, NFP relies on tracking a woman's menstrual cycle to determine fertile and infertile periods. Techniques may include monitoring basal body temperature, cervical mucus, and menstrual calendar patterns. NFP when used correctly, it can be an effective form of family planning. It also encourages shared responsibility between partners and promotes awareness of the body’s natural rhythms.
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) is a fertility treatment where processed sperm is directly inserted into the uterus during ovulation to improve the chances of pregnancy, often used for mild infertility.
Home IUI (intrauterine insemination) care involves preparing for and managing the insemination process in a comfortable, private home setting with a midwife by your side.
Who benefits from IUI
IUI can benefit a variety of individuals and couples who are facing fertility challenges. It is often recommended for those who have:
- Same-sex couples or single women: IUI can be used for women in same-sex relationships or single women who wish to conceive using donor sperm.
- Mild male infertility: Men with low sperm count or motility may benefit from IUI, as it places sperm directly in the uterus, improving the chances of fertilization.
- Unexplained infertility: Couples who have not been able to conceive despite having no clear cause of infertility may turn to IUI as a first-line treatment.
- Mild endometriosis: Women with mild endometriosis may benefit from IUI.
IUI is a less invasive and more affordable alternative to other assisted reproductive technologies like In vitro fertilization (IVF). Success depends on various factors, including the woman's age, the cause of infertility, and the quality of the sperm.
Prenatal Care
Exceptional Prenatal Care with Blissful Midwifery
Personalized Prenatal Care Schedule:
- Monthly Visits: Until 32 weeks, focusing on maternal and fetal wellbeing.
- Biweekly Visits: From 32 to 36 weeks, ensuring continued monitoring and support.
- Weekly Visits: For the final month providing preparation and reassurance as you approach your birth.
Comprehensive Support During Your Visits:
- Physical and Emotional Well-Being: Each hour-long visit includes a thorough evaluation of your physical health and the health of your baby, along with a check-in on your mental and emotional state.
- Education and Guidance: Receive expert advice on nutrition, supplements, birth prep and transitioning to parenthood.
- Family Involvement: Partners, children, and family are welcome at any visit for an inclusive experience.
- Informed Decisions: By fostering open communication and providing clear, relevant information, we empower you to make decisions that best for your needs.
From your initial prenatal visit to your final postpartum check-up, Raquel is dedicated to supporting you and your baby throughout your journey.
Contact Blissful Midwifery today to learn more about how our personalized prenatal care can support you and your growing family.
Home Birth
Imagine Your Homebirth Experience with Blissful Midwifery
Imagine giving birth in the comfort of your own home, surrounded by loved ones. Enjoy your favorite snacks and drinks at hand and move freely in a space designed for you. Your partner can assist in catching your baby, making the experience deeply personal and intimate.
After birth, you'll establish breastfeeding, enjoy a nourishing meal, and settle in for a restful nap. Your midwife will ensure your comfort, tucking you in for a peaceful rest in your own cozy bed.
Safety and Comfort in Home Birth
At Blissful Midwifery, safety is our top priority. For healthy, low-risk pregnancies, home birth with a Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) is as safe, if not safer, than hospital delivery. We trust in the natural strength of women’s bodies and the birthing process.
Send us a message or schedule a complimentary consultation to see if a home birth with Blissful Midwifery is right for you. Experience unparalleled comfort and personalized care as we help you create a safe, fulfilling, and memorable birth experience.
Water Birth
Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC)
Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC)
Experience the Benefits of Water Birth with Blissful Midwifery
Water birth is a soothing option for your labor and birth, referred to as “Mother Nature’s epidural,” water birth offers significant relief and relaxation throughout the birthing process.
Why Choose Water Birth?
- Soothing Warmth: Water's warmth softens tension, enhancing relaxation.
- Buoyancy: Reduces your weight, promotes effective contractions, improves circulation, leading to less pain and provides more oxygen for your baby.
- Deeper Concentration: The calming effects of the water promote deeper focus and concentration, helping you be centered and relaxed.
- Laboring in Water: Labor in the warm water and get out for the actual birth.
- Water Birth: Alternatively, stay in the water for the entire time, providing a continuous soothing environment throughout the birth.
A Personalized Touch
At Blissful Midwifery, we offer water birth as an optional service. Whether you choose to labor, deliver, or both in the water, we support your choices for a comfortable and empowering birth experience.
Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC)
Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC)
Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC)
Supportive and Personalized Care for Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC) at Blissful Midwifery
At Blissful Midwifery, we support vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) as a viable and empowering option. Most pregnant people with a previous cesarean are candidates for a successful VBAC.
Understanding Your Unique Journey
At Blissful Midwifery, we understand that each person has unique health needs and past birth experiences. We recognize how previous births, whether vaginal or cesarean, can impact your feelings and well-being, influencing your decisions for future births.
Personalized VBAC Care
As your midwife, Raquel will carefully review the circumstances of your previous cesarean, offer counseling on your options, and address any concerns. She will personalize your care to support a successful VBAC, empowering you with the information and support needed to make the best decision for you and your baby.
Postpartum Care
Postpartum Care
Postpartum Care
Comprehensive Postpartum Support with Blissful Midwifery
Ongoing Postpartum Care
Raquel provides five or more postpartum appointments to support your family through this transformative time.
These appointments are typically scheduled as follows:
- Day 1: A visit shortly after birth to check in on you and your baby’s immediate needs, offer NBS and pulse ox.
- Day 3: Follow-up to monitor your recovery and ensure that breastfeeding and bonding are progressing smoothly.
- Day 5 or 7: Continued support as your family adjust to the new dynamics check vitals, baby's weight and offer hearing screen.
- 2 Weeks: A comprehensive check-in to address any ongoing concerns and provide additional guidance.
- 6 Weeks: The final postpartum visit to ensure that you are fully supported and transitioning well into parenthood.
Newborn Care
Postpartum Care
Postpartum Care
Seamless Newborn Care with Blissful Midwifery
Continuous Bonding
- Immediate Togetherness: From the moment your baby is born, they remain with you. All newborn checks and procedures are performed with your baby in your arms or right beside you, preserving that precious first contact.
- Informed Consent: We offer standard newborn procedures with full informed consent. These options include erythromycin eye ointment, vitamin k, newborn metabolic screening, critical congenital heart disease screening using a pulse oximeter and hearing screen
- Prioritizing Breastfeeding: We routinely delay newborn exam until after breastfeeding has been established.
At Blissful Midwifery, our goal is to provide a seamless, supportive experience for both you and your newborn, allowing you to focus on enjoying the early moments of your baby’s life.
The Benefits of Breastfeeding and Support with Blissful Midwifery
Breast milk is uniquely tailored to meet your baby’s needs, offering more than basic nutrition. The benefits of breastfeeding extend far beyond what you might expect, impacting lactating individuals, infants, and the environment positively.
Why Breastfeed?
- Optimal Nutrition: Breast milk provides the perfect balance of essential vitamins, and nutrients for your baby's growth, development and gut health.
- Disease Protection: Rich in disease-fighting substances, breast milk strengthens your baby's immune system.
- Complimentary Support: Blissful Midwifery offers complimentary breastfeeding education and support for all parents. Whether you’re a first-time mom or an experienced parent, Raquel provides expert guidance to help you navigate any challenges and ensure a smoother breastfeeding experience.
The Benefits of Placental Encapsulation with Blissful Midwifery
We believe that placental encapsulation is a vital component of postpartum recovery.
Why Consider Placental Encapsulation?
- Nutrient-Rich Recovery: Pregnancy and childbirth place significant demands on your body. Placenta is rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients beneficial for recovery.
- Convenient and Effective: Encapsulation is a common method of consuming the placenta.
- Historical and Global Practice: Throughout history and across cultures, the placenta has been used to support postpartum recovery.
complimentary Consultation
Finding your Midwife
Choosing your midwife or doula is a crucial step in ensuring a supportive and fulfilling birth experience. It’s important to have the chance to ask questions, understand the care you'll receive, and ensure that the professional you choose is the perfect fit for you and your family.
At Blissful Midwifery, we offer complimentary hour-long consultations to help you make this important decision with confidence. These consultations are held virtually via Zoom, providing you with a convenient and comfortable setting to discuss your needs and preferences.
What to Expect:
- Personalized Discussion: Take this time to ask any questions you have about the midwifery or doula services we offer. We are here to provide clear, detailed answers and help you understand how we can support your birth journey.
- Family Participation: We welcome your partners, children, and any other family members who will be involved in or supportive of your birth experience. We believe that involving everyone who will be part of your journey ensures that all your concerns and expectations are addressed.
- Understanding Your Care: Learn more about the specific care and support we provide, including our approach to natural therapies, personalized care, and how we can tailor our services to meet your unique needs.
At Blissful Midwifery, we are committed to making sure you feel fully informed and comfortable with your choice. Schedule your free consultation today and take the first step towards a supportive and empowering birth experience.