More employers are offering benefits that support employees as they grow their families. One program many people are hearing about is Carrot Fertility. Carrot Fertility is an employer sponsored benefit that helps individuals and couples access services related to fertility, pregnancy, and family building. Depending on the employer’s plan, the program may help cover a variety of services that support families during their journey to parenthood. Carrot was designed to make fami

A Gentle Guide for Expecting Parents Spring is a beautiful time to welcome a new baby. The world feels fresh, the days are getting longer, and families begin spending more time outside. If your baby is due in March, April, or May, there are a few unique things to think about when preparing for a spring birth and postpartum season. As a doula serving families in Lansing and the surrounding communities, I often help parents plan for the small details that make the early weeks s

One of the most common questions couples ask when considering a doula is, “If we hire a doula, will they replace my partner during labor?” The short answer is no. A doula does not replace a partner. In fact, doulas are there to support both the birthing person and their partner, so the whole birth team feels confident and supported. Many partners want to be deeply involved in the birth experience but may feel unsure about what to do in the moment. Labor can be unpredictable,

Many families preparing for birth hear about Spinning Babies , a gentle approach that focuses on helping babies find an optimal position for birth. When a baby is in a good position, labor can often progress more smoothly and comfortably. Spinning Babies focuses on supporting the muscles and ligaments around the uterus so the baby has space to move into a position that works well for birth. Instead of forcing the baby into a certain position, the goal is to help the body crea

Many parents who have had a cesarean birth wonder if a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC)  is possible for their next baby. The good news is that for many families, VBAC can be a safe and empowering option when supported by a knowledgeable care team. Working with a VBAC certified doula  can provide the emotional support, education, and comfort measures that help families feel confident and prepared for birth after cesarean. What Is a VBAC? VBAC stands for Vaginal Birth After

Preparing for birth can feel overwhelming, especially when you look at some hospital bag lists online. Many of them suggest packing dozens of items, but the truth is you usually need far less than you think. Hospitals provide many basic supplies, so the goal is simply to bring a few things that make you feel comfortable and prepared. Families giving birth in the Lansing area often deliver at UM Health Sparrow Lansing or McLaren Greater Lansing, and both hospitals provide many

One of the most common questions pregnant mothers ask is when they should call their doula during labor. Many people worry about calling too early or waiting too long. The truth is that doulas are there to support you throughout the process, not just when labor becomes intense. Early Labor- Most doulas want to hear from you when labor first begins. Early labor can include signs such as: Regular contractions that are becoming stronger or closer together Lower back pressure or

Yes. Michigan Medicaid now covers doula services for pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period. This benefit was added to help improve support for families and maternal health outcomes across the state. Many families do not realize that if they have Medicaid, they may qualify for doula support at little or no cost  during pregnancy, labor, and after their baby is born. What Doula Services Does Michigan Medicaid Cover? Michigan Medicaid may cover support from a trained doula

Many families ask if they are allowed to eat during labor at the hospital. The answer depends on the hospital’s policy, the stage of labor, and your individual medical situation. At McLaren Greater Lansing Hospital in Lansing, many patients who are laboring without medication and who have low risk pregnancies may be allowed to eat during early labor until around 6 centimeters of dilation. This allows mothers to keep their energy up during the early stages of labor. Labor is p

If you are planning to give birth at Sparrow Hospital in Lansing, you may be wondering if hiring a birth doula is necessary. Hospitals provide excellent medical care through skilled nurses, physicians, and midwives, and many families also choose to have a birth doula for additional continuous support during labor. A birth doula works alongside the medical team to support the mother emotionally and physically while respecting the care and expertise of the clinical staff. While

What Is a Postpartum Doula When Moms Need the Most Support After Birth Postpartum Help in Lansing and Mid-Michigan Bringing a new baby home is one of the most meaningful moments in a family’s life. It can also be one of the most overwhelming. While much attention is focused on pregnancy and birth, the weeks after baby arrives are often when mothers need the most support. Sleep deprivation, physical recovery, feeding challenges, and adjusting to life with a newborn can leave m