Each trimester in pregnancy presents unique nutritional needs as your baby develops and your body adapts. From folate and iron in the early stages to essential fats and proteins for brain development in the later months, eating whole, nutrient-dense foods ensures that both you and your baby are supported every step of the way. And the journey doesn’t end with birth—during the "fourth trimester," or postpartum, replenishing your body with nourishing foods is vital for healing and breastfeeding. In this blog, we’ll explore the vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that matter most in each trimester, with a holistic focus on real, whole foods and mindful supplementation when needed.

Birth is an intricate dance between body, mind, and spirit, and central to this beautiful process are the hormones that guide and support labor. These hormones are designed to work in harmony with your body to bring your baby into the world. Understanding how these hormones work and learning how to harness their power can be a game changer for a positive, unmedicated birth experience.

At Anointed Births, we believe in embracing the natural, sometimes uncomfortable aspects of labor and postpartum life. From tearing during labor to postpartum bleeding, noisy contractions to breastfeeding challenges, these experiences are normal parts of birth. Our culture often encourages avoiding discomfort, but we’re here to help you surrender to these innate processes, supporting you through the emotional and physical highs and lows. With the right support, you can confidently navigate the messy, beautiful reality of bringing your baby into the world. Ready to embrace the journey? We’re here to walk with you every step of the way.

Ensuring adequate protein intake during pregnancy is vital for promoting a healthy and low-risk pregnancy. Protein plays a crucial role in supporting baby's growth, maternal tissue development, and hormone production. Pregnant women should aim to consume a variety of high-quality protein sources such as meats, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes, nuts, and whole grains to meet the increased demands of pregnancy. Proper nutrition, especially protein, reduces the risk of complications such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and preeclampsia. Learn more about why protein is essential during pregnancy and how to meet your protein needs through a balanced diet.

We’re happy that you are here, preparing for your best birth with us! In this blog, we’ll be diving into creating your blueprint for birth: Why you should create a birth plan and how to get started.

I love creating birth plans with the expecting parents because we get to envision the birth and talk about all the details and preferences for labor, birth, and immediate postpartum. Knowing the birth preferences and desires helps us doulas know how to help expecting parents prepare with education, tools, techniques, and special prayer requests that support their needs. Let’s explore why creating a birth plan is essential and how to get started.

Birth is an incredibly beautiful and transformational experience; birth is also probably the hardest thing you will ever experience. It can be the most empowering experience of your life followed by joy and euphoria OR the most disempowering and traumatic experience followed by depression. Learn how to build a strong mental fortitude for a positive birth experience!

A positive birth story of an unmedicated hospital birth experience, the birth of Andersen James.

Postpartum depression is a form of clinical depression that occurs after giving birth, characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in activities.

The postpartum period is marked by intricate hormonal shifts as a woman's body recovers from the profound experience of childbirth. These hormonal changes can be influenced by various factors, including the use of medication during labor and the emotional toll of a traumatic birth experience. Understanding the nuances of hormonal fluctuations in these scenarios is crucial for new mothers and those supporting them.

The postpartum period is a time of profound hormonal changes as a woman's body adapts to the demands of childbirth and the transition to motherhood. Understanding the intricacies of postpartum hormones, their shifts, and the potential impact on mental and emotional well-being is crucial for new mothers. In this exploration, we will break down key hormones, delve into when and how they may shift, and provide insights into recognizing signs of hormonal imbalances.

Bringing a new life into the world is a beautiful and transformative experience but it also comes with its set of challenges. The postpartum period, commonly known as the fourth trimester, is a crucial time for both the newborn and the parents. While the focus often revolves around the baby's needs, it's equally important to consider the well-being of the mother and the family as a whole. This is where the invaluable support of a postpartum doula can make a significant difference.

Welcoming a new life into the world is a momentous occasion and crafting a birth plan can be a pivotal step in ensuring the birthing experience aligns with the unique preferences of expectant parents. In this blog, we'll delve into the process of creating a birth plan and highlight the invaluable role a doula plays in assisting parents in developing a personalized and realistic plan for their special day.