Herstory

“Make medicine from your pain. Be that kind of warrior.”
— Jaiya John

Women’s History Month

Happy March, friend!

So many reasons to celebrate, spring equinox, world doula week & Women’s History Month, just to name a few. I want to take time to honor some incredible women who have shaped my life in ways I never could have imagined. Their personal journeys transformed into a soul led mission to serve & support others. Their wisdom, vulnerability & presence in this world are gifts I’m forever grateful for.

Nikki Walton

Known to many as Curly Nikki, Nikki is an OG of the natural hair movement, a blogger & podcaster with a master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling & psychology. For years I’ve started my day with her podcast, Go(o)d Mornings with Curly Nikki. I found comfort in Nikki during my journey through grief & have spoken to her throughout the years irl. I credit her with expanding my spiritual practice, helping me to deepen my relationship with God.

Dr. Thema Bryant

Psychologist, professor, minister, author, former president of the American Psychological Association, a pillar of hope among so many, Dr. Bryant does it for me! She understands the intricate connection between psychology & spirituality, guiding us to heal from past traumas & step into our full potential. Her podcast is one of my favorites, The Homecoming Podcast with Dr.Thema.

Devi Brown

Anyone that knows me, knows how much I looooooove Devi Brown. Devi is a media personality, educator, corporate advisor, leader in the wellness space, author, mommy & founder of the wellness company, Devi Brown Well-Being. Devi’s authenticity is palpable, which is makes her even more loveable. She has taught me to challenge the status quo, to heal & work on my relationship with myself. The energy she brings is contagious. Dr. Thema Bryant made a recent appearance on Devi’s podcast, Deeply Well, such a juicy & touching discussion that everyone can benefit from, especially now—Healing Our Relationships with Dr Thema Bryant & Devi Brown.

Gabby Shepard

I love Gabby down!!! Such a multi-faceted, dynamic human being with the sweetest soul. I found Gabby on Instagram years ago & was instantly HOOKED. Gabby is a scuba diver & freediver who shares her love of the ocean on her IG page, Black Girl Blue World. Scuba diving had been high on my bucket list for years before I found the courage to answer the call. I joined one of Gabby’s dive trips last year & left certified! That one trip changed me forever, in ways that still continue to amaze me. Gabby hosts dive trips throughout the year for experienced & aspiring divers. Gabby is also an executive producer, alongside Brad Pitt & Emily Wolfe, of the movie Nickel Boys, now playing in theaters.

This season of my life has introduced me to true world changers whose passion, resilience & vision inspire me in so many different ways. I hope this month brings you the opportunity to explore more deeply & uncover the limitless potential that exists within you.

NYC Free Events & Services

Photo by Jacob Lund

Hi, friend! Happy February to you :)

My clients never cease to amaze me. I am inspired & have a weeklong break before on-call status begins again. I plan to prioritize self-care because looking like Chewbacca was never a goal for this year.

So! It’s that time of the year where our holiday spending catches up with us & tax season is taxing. On the positive side, there are free events & services for expectant & new parents happening across New York City. Time to give your pockets a rest & see what our city has to offer.

Free Events & Services for Expectant & New Parents

Free Maternal Yoga for pregnant & new moms, baby friendly

Every Wednesday @ 10 AM EST

Location: East Harlem Neighborhood Health Action Center

158 East 115th Street New York, NY 10029

Click here to register.

What Happens During a C-Section?

Learn about & prepare for a belly birth

Monday, February 3, 5:30 - 6:30pm EST

Location: Brownsville Neighborhood Health Action Center

259 Bristol Street Brooklyn, NY 11212

Click here to learn more.

 

Cultivating Grace Support Group - Healthy Start Brooklyn

Mental health support group for birthing people, pregnancy through postpartum. Child friendly. Metrocards are available for those that attend. Meets biweekly.

Friday, February 14, 1 - 2:30pm EST

Location: Brownsville Neighborhood Health Action Center

259 Bristol Street Family Wellness Suite Brooklyn, NY 11212

Register here.

 

New York Housing Authority (NYCHA)

If you are a member of the NYCHA community who is pregnant or expecting & would like to benefit from Healthy Start @ NYCHA’s resources & assistance, visit NYCHA’s Self-Service Portal to let NYCHA know that a member of your household is expecting. The Healthy Start program can also be reached via email at healthy.start@nycha.nyc.gov or by phone at (212) 306-8282.

 

Harlem Children’s Zone, The Baby College

Today’s newborns are tomorrow’s college graduates & community role models. The Baby College offers a nine-week workshop that engages new & expectant parents & caregivers through the ins & outs of early childhood development. Click here to learn more.

 

The New York Foundling, Staten Island

Free home visiting program that provides support & resources for new & expecting parents living on Staten Island’s North Shore.

Click here to learn more: English | Spanish

Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve, Nature Interpretive Center, Staten Island

Free weekly nature exploration through crafts & activities for children 0-5 years old. Includes story time & a guided hike! Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Offered every Tuesday, 10 - 11:30am EST

Location: 2351 Veterans Road West Staten Island, NY 10309

For more information, call 718-605-3970 ext 201 or email ClayPitPondsSP@parks.ny.gov

Click here to register

Supporting Our Mothers Initiative, Queens

Somiclients Infant Feeding Support Group @ Wellcome Care

Come share your experiences, ask questions, & receive support to meet your infant feeding goals.  Groups are led by an International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC).    Support is offered for breastfeeding, formula-feeding, pumping, or exploring other feeding options.

Location: 29-15 Far Rockaway BoulevardQueens, NY, 11691United States

Tuesday, February 4, 2025 5:00-6:00 PM (First Tuesday of the month)

Click here to learn more.

 

Seamen’s Society for Children and Families, New York

A private New York nonprofit organization with programs in place to protect & care for our communities’ most vulnerable children, while strengthening families living with mental illness, alcohol addiction, substance abuse, domestic/intimate partner violence & other circumstances which can threaten a child’s safety and future. Office locations in Staten Island & Brooklyn.

Click here to learn more.

 

Catholic Charities Center for Pregnant Women, Brooklyn & Queens

The Catholic Charities Center for Pregnant Women at the Robert Charles Golden Community Outreach Center features a variety of free resources for expectant mothers. Services include limited financial assistance, case management services & access to baby items.

Click here to learn more.

NYC Borough Wide Community Baby Showers

Keep an eye out for citywide events led by Detective Fred Washington of the NYPD Community Affairs Bureau, including borough-wide Community Baby Showers & the annual Father’s Day celebration. These events will take place throughout 2025 providing families with valuable resources, essential baby & household items & the opportunity to win big prizes :)

Follow or visit Detective Fred Washington on Eventbrite to learn more about upcoming events.

Lessons from the Bedside

Once upon a time, I was a bedside nurse working on a pulmonary step-down unit in Brooklyn. It was a fast-paced environment focused primarily on caring for patients on life support. We often crossed paths with terminally ill patients & their family members who were navigating the most challenging times of their lives. In the final chapter of their journeys, they shared invaluable wisdom that I will always hold close to my heart.

Many of the lessons I have learned are captured perfectly in Bronnie Ware’s book-The Top Five Regrets of the Dying – A Life Transformed by the Dearly Departing.

As we step into a new year, we find an opportunity for deeper reflection. I encourage all of us to draw from the wisdom gathered from their experiences.

To learn more, read here: https://bronnieware.com/blog/regrets-of-the-dying/

Wishing you a very Happy New Year, friend! May 2025 bring your biggest dreams to fruition. Special shout out to all the families who have made 2024 such an incredibly rewarding year.

Mindset Over Everything

Photo by Luana Freitas

Preparing for Birth

Birth is as much a mental journey as it is a physical one. When it comes to preparing, the most important tool is your mind. How you approach birth mentally can profoundly shape your labor experience.

90% of Birth is Mental

No shade, but you can have the most detailed birth plan, a duffel bag full of tools & a partner who’s read all the books, but if your head isn’t in the right space, all that prep might feel futile in the moment.

Your mindset is the foundation for everything. It’s what helps you stay present & adaptable during labor & if things don’t go exactly as planned (because birth rarely follows a script & honestly, nothing in life really does).

Mindset isn’t something you can just flip a switch on. It’s deeply rooted in:

  • Your personal experiences: If you’ve had medical trauma or difficult experiences with healthcare, those memories can stay with you.

  • Our nation’s maternal health crisis: There are valid reasons for concern, especially for birthing people of color.

  • Society & the media: Since we were kids, we’ve been bombarded with stories that make birth look terrifying. I won’t lie, watching my favorite soap opera actress give birth when I was six years old scared the procreative desire right out of me. The screaming & sweating? No ma’am. From a young age, the media & other people’s stories taught us to fear birth, a belief that takes time & intention to unravel & unlearn.

Rewiring What You Believe About Birth

Fear & conditioning don’t have to be permanent. Birth is not inherently something to fear. It’s something to prepare for. It’s something we were designed for. So, preparation includes unpacking what you’ve been taught about it & working on your mindset.

When & how to get started

Anytime during pregnancy! Here are some practices you can add to your birth prep toolkit:

Self-reflection

Journaling can be a powerful tool. Ask yourself: What do I believe about birth? Where did those beliefs come from? How are my beliefs serving me, or holding me back from truly believing in myself? Dive deep, familiarize yourself with your truths.

Education

Make it empowering & in alignment with your needs. Learn about how birth actually works. Not the horror stories, but the physiology of labor, the stages of birth & the incredible things your body is designed to do.

Therapy or counseling

If you’ve had traumatic experiences, please don’t hesitate to work with a professional. Processing those emotions can be transformative & healing.

Mindfulness practices

A moment with the beloved & the river changes its course.

-Ram Dass

Meditation, breathing exercises & prayer can help you reconnect with your body & quiet the mental noise of your mind. Feel free to connect with God, your mind, your body & your baby whenever you need to.

Affirmations

Phrases like: My body was made for this, or I am strong & capable can help reframe your mindset when doubts creep in. Consistently using affirmations can train the brain to see birth in a more positive, empowering light. Use your self-reflections to help create affirmations that are specific to you.

Reliable support systems

Include your partner in your practice time. Surround yourself with people who believe in you & offer unwavering support, free of unsolicited advice & bias. Only your biggest cheerleaders on this team, period.

Positive vibes only

Watch positive birth stories & follow pages that present birth in a positive & realistic perspective. Home birth videos truly capture the very essence of what unmedicalized birth looks like. They are a valuable resource regardless of where you intend to give birth. Create healthy boundaries with loved ones who like to tap dance on your last nerve when you discuss your intentions with them. Not everyone deserves access to your personal thoughts & wishes.

The Bigger Picture

Ultimately, the goal in labor is to guide your mind away from stress or discomfort. We can focus more effectively when we’re not consumed by fear or anxiety. This skill isn’t just for birth, it’s a tool that successful, courageous, & resilient people use in all areas of life. You see it in athletes, in that kiss they aim towards the sky, that quick prayer, or deep, steadying breath before a big event. They’re creating their own inner bubble to calm their mind & center their focus.

Like any skill, it takes time & practice to master. That’s why incorporating these techniques into your daily routine, starting as early as you’d like, is so important. Consistency helps build the muscle memory needed to settle into this calm, focused mindset when it matters most.

The goal isn’t to convince yourself that birth will be easy or perfect, it’s to teach your brain to see it as something you can handle. To help your body & mind work together, instead of fear stepping in & causing resistance.

When you start shifting your mindset, everything else starts to click. You’ll approach birth with more confidence, flexibility & trust in your capability to give birth.

If you have made it to the end, thank you & Happy December, friend! I wish you & your family a wonderful holiday season & an abundantly promising new year <3

“Your outer journey may contain a million steps; your inner journey only has one: the step you are taking right now.”

-Eckhart Tolle

Let's Talk About Stress

One thing we all have in common is stress.

Stress is a normal part of life. That’s what we’ve been taught & what we have experienced. Stress is the body’s response to a challenge, change, or perceived threat. In small doses, stress can be motivating, but in high, consistent doses, it’s our signal that something needs to change. Stress isn’t just a feeling; it’s a full-body experience, led by our nervous system. The art of outsmarting stress is about calming the nervous system, helping it feel safe again.

Our nervous system

Think of the nervous system like the motherboard, the HQ, or the big boss running the show inside us. It's responsible for an endless number of internal processes, the physical, mental & emotional magic that keeps us going every day. Whether it’s the things we choose- (voluntary aspects), like eating or talking with friends—or the things that happen on autopilot (involuntary aspects), like breathing & digesting, the nervous system works quietly in the background making sure everything runs fluidly.

Our nervous system is also the first to react when life gets stressful. At its core, stress induces a survival mechanism within us (our fight-or-flight response) with the release of hormones like cortisol & adrenaline to help us react quickly. This is great if you’re running from a dangerous animal with big, sharp teeth. Not so great if you’re just trying to make it through a busy day.

Why does this matter?

Stress has a cumulative effect. When left unchecked, it spreads like glitter, everydamnwhere. As much as many of us love glitter, we know it’s hard to clean up. Just like glitter, stress can find its way into every crevice of our life. We live in a culture of go-go-go, where stress lurks around every corner. And our body, bless it, often reacts like we’re still dodging ancient predators. The result? The same fight-or-flight response we’d need to escape danger can become a daily ritual in modern life. Our society, for better or worse, has kind of overdosed on stress. And let’s be real, our nervous system was not designed for constant high alerts. That accumulated stress has a physical, emotional & mental impact over time. A racing heart, random sweats, mysterious stomach aches, relentless headaches, anxiety, depression, even co-morbid conditions, all can stem from exposure to prolonged stress, leading to consequences we might never imagined.

Getting Ahead of Stress: Rise Above It

The secret to dealing with stress is not waiting until the storm hits. We’re not here for another round of “just push through.” Let’s end the generational curse of running on fumes. Instead, let’s stay one step ahead with managing our stress levels. Something simple as getting out in nature, walking, exercising, buying some plants, practicing deep breathing, eating well (we love a colorful plate of food), resting well & spending quality time with our loved ones, all have the power to regulate our nervous system. Make it a habit to do things that are legal & feel good to your body. Create routines that break down these practices into enjoyable & realistic pieces. Sometimes five minutes is all you need. Routines bring calm & stability, eventually turning into habits that help your nervous system relax, even when things get intense.

Consume technology intentionally, don’t let it consume you

If you’re serious about managing stress, take a look at your tech habits. Be mindful & intentional with technology. It’s tempting to scroll through your phone during your downtime, but a constant stream of social media, news, texts, emails, notifications-distractions, can keep the nervous system on high alert. So, find your rhythm with routines that lift you, practices that ground you & be mindful with how you spend your time.

For my expectant parents

Childbirth educators, birth coaches, doulas, midwives & other birthkeepers teach stress management techniques as part of birth preparation, well before baby arrives. The idea is to give you time to learn & get comfortable with them. But here’s the thing, these practices are more than just pregnancy & labor tools. They’re essential in the postpartum period, too, supporting your body’s physical, emotional & mental recovery. How we heal during the postpartum period impacts future pregnancies, births & our overall health. Postpartum is not the time to let go of what you have learned, it’s the time to allow these tools to support you. Continue to integrate them into your daily routine after your little one(s) is born.

For my black & brown friends

Weathering: The Extraordinary Stress of Ordinary Life in an Unjust Society is an excellent book by Dr. Arline T. Geronimus who shares how systemic oppression, like racism & social inequities, directly affect the physical & mental health of black & brown people. The term weathering refers to the gradual wear & tear on the body that comes from being constantly exposed to social stressors. For marginalized communities, this chronic stress accelerates aging at the metabolic (cellular) level, especially impacting black women & their maternal health. It’s not the reason for today’s maternal health crisis, but weathering shows why the one-size-fits-all approach of our healthcare system often falls short for black & brown communities. It highlights the urgent need for systemic changes across all fields intended to support health & well-being. Weathering sheds light on the importance of being intentional & consistent in our stress management practices. It’s a reminder that managing stress isn’t just a wellness trend, it’s a crucial part of maintaining resilience & health, especially in a world filled with constant challenges.

With every intentional breath, every processed meal you dodge & each moment of laughter, you hold the power to take charge of your health & well-being. When we can shift from survival mode to a state of ease, we can handle life’s challenges with a steady mind & a bit more peace. It is never too late to begin integrating stress management into your daily routine. Your body will thank you.

 

A Gentle Call to Stillness

Hello September!

How are we already in the 9th month of the year?!

I have taken an unintentional break from social media & online. I cannot tell you how many times I have sat down to write a blog or a post but have a difficult time finding the words to express anything, tbh. Idk how else to explain it but I felt like trying to keep up with our virtual world & the expectations placed on entrepreneur’s was beginning to suck the life out of me. Some expected & unexpected experiences took place as the summer began to unfurl. It felt like I was being guided to sit down, slow down. I’m a Scorpio sun & moon, of course I tried to fight it. But then I stopped & actually sat the hell down. One thing that keeps circling back to me-we, so many of us, spend so much time investing our time & energy in creating this big, beautiful life that we don’t fully get to immerse ourselves in. We are so busy doing that we forget to just be. So much of that is wrapped up in trying to keep up with the rest of society as our focus becomes survival, making ends meet & worrying about being successful. The summer shifted my focus & I can’t lie, it feels so good.

The summer has been so beautiful & inviting. I found myself under the sun doing absolutely nothing. No marketing. No planning out social media content. Not trying to jot down every business-related thought that comes to mind, just living and enjoying each moment as it comes. I have spent my days & nights connecting with amazing people, fully present, soaking in all that yummy goodness that comes with holding space for one another. I worried if my online absence would impact my business, but I allowed myself to put that burden down. I am doing what I have been called to do and I gave myself room to fully enjoy it, guilt-free. Special shout-out to all my summer babies that made each moment even sweeter.

If you’re reading this, thank you for being here. Perhaps this is your sign to pause. Move with purpose, act with intention. Release the weight of others' expectations, and simply exist in your own truth. Embrace stillness & connection, let it guide you back to yourself. In this moment & every moment thereafter, choose to honor your journey and breathe in the beauty of simply being. Autumn often minds us that it’s time to harvest those fruits, y’all.

Wishing you a joyful start to the pre-spooky season! For all the parents sending their littles (and not so littles) back to school, may this year be filled with blessings and success for you & your children.

Always remain empowered,

Anjanette

Resources for NYC Families

There are so many free or low-cost services across the city.

Use the links provided to learn more!

Before and After Birth: Protecting Your Emotional Health

 Baby Cafés USA

Breastfeeding support from Baby Cafés, support groups promote community-based, drop-in breastfeeding sites & offer high-quality lactation care for free.

  • Brownsville Neighborhood Health Action Center (Brooklyn)

    259 Bristol Street, Multi-Purpose Room Thursdays: 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

  • East Harlem Health Action Center (Manhattan)

    158 East 115th Street, Family Wellness Suite Wednesdays: 10 a.m. – noon

  • Tremont Neighborhood Health Action Center (Bronx)

    1826 Arthur Avenue Tuesdays: 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Feeding Resources

  • Call or visit 311 for more resources including the Breastfeeding Warmline.

 Mobile Milk is a text messaging campaign to encourage and support breastfeeding.

  • Text MILK to 55676 to get started.

  • Text messages start during 3rd trimester, continuing until your baby is 4 months old.

  • After your baby is born, you will receive a few text messages per week with guidance and support for breastfeeding.

 

Community breastfeeding support, education & resources:

 

WIC (Women, Infants & Children)

  • For pregnant, breastfeeding, postpartum, caregivers of infants and children up to age 5

  • Gives families access to: Infant formula, breastfeeding support, funds to cover WIC foods at WIC-approved stores, referrals to other programs & services, nutrition education

  • WIC Prescreening Tool: WIC PreScreening Tool (usda.gov)

  • Apply for WIC benefits: How do I apply for WIC? (ny.gov)

 Insurance

 

Medicaid provides free or low-cost insurance to pregnant New Yorkers, regardless of immigration status. Families with higher incomes may qualify for Medicaid during pregnancy. If you have Medicaid while you are pregnant, your baby will have Medicaid for one year.

 

 

Insurance coverage for babies & children

  • Children in your family who are 14 years of age or younger are eligible for Medicaid coverage if your family qualifies financially. All Medicaid-eligible children are provided with 12 months of continuous coverage, even if your family's income exceeds eligibility levels during that period.

  • Children who are not eligible for Medicaid can enroll in Child Health Plus.

  • Child Health Plus provides free or low-cost health insurance to children under the age of 19, that reside in New York State, who do not qualify for Medicaid and do not have other health insurance coverage.

  • Child Health Plus enrollment: New York State of Health | Health Plan Marketplace for Individual and Small Business Health Insurance (ny.gov)

 

Additional Resources

 

Learn more & apply for benefits that can help support your family.

  • SNAP (Food Stamps), Cash Assistance (CA), Fair Fares NYC, HEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program) helps NY’ers heat & cool their homes, Child Support.

  • Apply: ACCESS HRA (nyc.gov)

Family support programs are voluntary programs provided at no cost to your family that will give you family support through visits in your home by a family support provider. Your family support provider will provide information and support about parenting, your child's health and development, walk you through healthy coping strategies for stressful parenting situations, and connect you with any needed services in the community (such as health care, job training).

 

Eating Healthy, nutrition education for your entire family:

Intentionality

Happy June!

As I switch out of on-call status, I just want time to process all of the beautiful & not so beautiful moments that took place in May. Clients that I have developed great relationships with over the past 5-6 months had their babies. I feel like my closest friends have given birth & I want to relish in that. I want to relish in how happy birthwork makes me, how comfortable & peaceful it feels to live life doing the things that bring me the most joy.

I also want time to process those not so beautiful moments. The conversations about maternal mortality, low doula reimbursement rates, and the high burnout rate that exists within the doulaverse.

So, I guess I just need time. Time to recognize my newness in this space. I have to remind myself often that I am still new here, that I deserve the same grace & compassion that I extend to others.

This month, I will focus on being intentional, soaking up as much sun as I possibly can & re-centering my nervous system.

Wishing you a month full of intentionally beautiful moments.

AJ

Journey to Self

In honor of the 2nd anniversary of my business, I’d like to share more about myself & my 20+ year journey within the healthcare space.

My name is Anjanette, many know me as AJ.

I grew up in Brooklyn, lived in a home that was nestled (I love that word) in the heart of Doctor’s Row. Doctor’s Row was a nickname for an area in the Midwood section of Brooklyn, where physicians practiced medicine & raised their families in the same space, their home. My grandfather was a physician, which came with perks on perks. While my friends ran home to do homework, I ran home to play medical assistant to my granddad. Saturday morning cereal was skipped to rummage through his physician’s bag. I grew up loving medicine, in its purest form existed the opportunity for connection & building genuine relationships. Since granddaddy was a physician for our community, I got to know our neighbors & their families very well.

With my granddad, I wasn’t a child. I was included in the conversations he had with his patients & other doctors; my input was actually sought after. In his office, I learned about pregnancy, reproductive health & holistic care. I met these magical beings called midwives. I sat at their feet as a kid, listening to their endless stories about birth & mothering. I just knew I was going to grow up and be a magical midwife, serving my children hors d’oeuvres in 6-inch stilettos by day & catching babies beneath the moon by night.

But life took a different turn. My granddad became ill & eventually bed bound. After school, I would help with getting dinner ready, cleaning, and feeding.  I grew scared of going home, many evenings were spent in the hospital. Eventually, my granddad passed away. I almost instantly felt my dreams leaving with him. His was the first death I witnessed. Without his encouragement, I didn’t feel I had what it took to be a care provider. The way my grades were set up, midwifery was not in my future.

So, I headed to college, partied like my tuition was free & graduated by the skin of my teeth. I still didn’t believe in myself. I walked into motherhood not believing in myself. I met financial rock bottom, had days where I was grateful to even have one meal. But in the background, I was being guided back to where I started. Medicine. I landed a job working with nurses & all that love came rushing right back to me. My nurturing little soul finally found its path. I found myself returning to college to become a registered nurse. This time, there was no partying, I had babies that were depending on me.

Nursing school mopped the entire floor with me. I was a mom of 2 children (one who was only months old), left a full-time job to complete my degree, I became a single mom when I officially became a student nurse. Despite everything, I’d do it all over again. Nursing is everything to me.

Then & Now

As a student nurse, I had the opportunity to witness birth(s) in a role that was very similar to birthkeeping. I had clinical rotations in L&D, postpartum & NICU. Loved it. Begged for and obtained a job in NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) before I graduated. The hospital closed right after I graduated & I headed into medical-surgical nursing. I worked in Oncology & Pulmonary Step-Down, which was mostly comprised of patients being sustained on life support. My experience was on the opposite spectrum of birth. Death & loss became the norm. Later in my career, I became a NICU Care Manager. I spent years in this position, which unexpected linked me back into the path I was meant to travel.

Becoming a doula, more recently, was a step back to familiarity & wholeness. All my lived experiences led me to this space of just being. I feel a rush of nostalgia when I spend time with my clients. That familiar sense of community I experienced in my younger years has returned. I get to witness the transformation that comes with parenthood. I support the balancing of parenthood & individuality. I live a completely different life & the best thing about it, I created it. Wait, that’s the second-best thing. The greatest thing EVER is I do not work for anydamnbody. Noboooody babyyyyy. On my way home from a birth, I fight the urge to do cartwheels out of the hospital. No more memorizing policies & procedures. No nurse admin breathing down my neck (iykyk) AND no more missing out on my children’s accomplishments & happy moments. I feel so free, so limitless, it has completely made me one of the most annoyingly happy people you will meet, unless if I am hungry.

Wishing my labor of love, Birth & Beyond, NYC, the happiest birthday. You have brought me so much joy, healing & genuine connections. Happy anniversary to my fellow birthkeepers that started their journey with me. Cheers to us <3

Rejection

Try rolling the r on that one without gagging. The dreaded word that truly makes us cringe. The topic of rejection came up during a few meetings I attended last month. Everyone had a story to share, so I wanted to share mine :)

Within the first 6 months of entrepreneurship, I found myself having to take a step back to figure out wth was going on. I was having a challenging time settling in, even started to doubt myself. I was very much in my head & felt alone. When that euphoric post-doula training feeling wears off? Knocks those socks clean off.

When I shared my transition into the entrepreneur doulaverse with the few friends that I did, I was not met with smiles & congratulatory champagne. I was asked if I lost my mind. Some doula agencies felt my nursing background served as a hindrance & encouraged me to gain experience elsewhere. So, no pink confetti for me.

Conditioning is real. The things we take in (all senses) can affect our reality. I did manage to learn some lessons before I had the chance to ask Jesus to take the wheel.

  • I’m not an imposter syndrome girly. When it comes to confidence, I’m either all in or crying in the corner of my shower. There’s no in-between for me. Confidence comes with time. Just have to be patient.

  • I was trying to conform to the standards of success that society tries to adhere to, those standards don’t align with who I am. I have the ability to create my own reality & dream as big as I want to.

  • What I was interpreting as rejection was actually redirection. I was being redirected because I was trying to squeeze myself into spaces I didn’t fit in.

Life is about alignment, mind, body, spirit. If a place or circumstance does not meet all three requirements, you will be out of alignment. Any entrepreneur can tell you, when you even think about stepping out of alignment, you will be spending some time in the corner of your shower (again).

I’ll give this piece of advice until I’m blue in the face, please don’t wait for others stamp of approval on your vision. People can only see what their mind allows them to conceptualize for themselves. Your vision may seem too big to them and that’s ok. Only share your vision & align with people & places that support it.

For the rest of the year & beyond, enjoy the journey you are on. It does not need to make sense to anyone but you. I’m holding a big bag of pink confetti in preparation of my 2nd anniversary as a birthkeeper & entrepreneur. It is time to celebrate all that we contribute to this world. Dare to dream big. Your uniqueness deserves to be seen. Tune out the negativity of others. Our parents didn’t labor for hours for us to ever settle for less :) Always remain empowered.

Black History Month

Black History & The History of Childbirth

Happy Black History Month!

Do you have tea? This is a sit & chill moment :)

As a child, I remember how exciting black history month was in my household.

For over 30 years, my mother taught in Brownsville, Brooklyn. As February approached, her enthusiasm became contagious. The month unfolded with profound discussions, joyous celebrations, and creative expressions, as she shared the rich history & contributions of our ancestors & current leaders with her students. This month, I am honored to continue the tradition by highlighting the significant contributions of black midwives & their pivotal role in shaping the history of childbirth.

In the world we know now, more than 98% of births occur in the hospital. The shift of childbirth to the hospital setting started in the early 1900s. Hospital births were managed by doctors, a profession largely occupied by men. Let’s pause for a moment, because I have to explain something that won’t make sense, but this is our history. It was taboo for men to be present during birth in the early 1900s. Even fathers were not welcomed into the birthing space until the 1960s. So, sir. How are you managing birth if you never watched it unfold? The math is not mathing, friend. Men managing birth reflected a stark departure from the historical norm where women played a central role in supporting the birthing process.

Since men lacked this personal experience, they relied on their medical expertise, medicalizing a very natural & physiological event. Imagine how scary this transition must have been for women. The birthing process evolved into a managed experience; this restricted the inherent autonomy women should have over their own bodies. I’m so biting my tongue right now, I could go on for days.

Well before the 1900s, birth occurred at home & it was a vibe. Loved ones would gather to support the birthing person & their family. It was a celebration, a time to welcome new life, with the assistance of a midwife who was trained to assist women during birth. Birth was often supported by black & indigenous women who passed down their traditional healing practices and knowledge base from generation to generation. For centuries, black midwives have been the healers of their tribes & communities. Their knowledge & skills saved lives.

In Africa, black women served as traditional midwives. They were deeply connected with the needs of mothers they worked with. They used their hands to heal & their wisdom of mother earth to integrate plant-based medicine into their practice. Their skills were sought after when they were enslaved & brought to America in the 17th century. Black midwives oversaw the care of pregnant slaves and the wives of their slave masters. Some midwives were able to travel to care for pregnant women, giving them the ability to provide care in different communities.

On another episode of Here We Go Again: In the early to mid-20th century, as birth moved to the hospital setting in the US, there was a big push for the role of midwives to be eliminated. Physicians and public health administrators felt midwives (their competitors) were undereducated and lacked proper hygienic practices, contributing to the deaths of mothers & infants. It was a time that illness & disease was prevalent in the United States. Policies were set in place calling for formal training of midwives & regulating how midwives practiced. Access to midwifery training was not readily available to all midwives. Black midwives faced exclusion from certain institutions, encountered financial barriers limiting their access to training, and were often unable to attend schools due to the challenges of distant travel. By the 1930s the number of births that took place at home, under the care of a midwife, declined considerably. Hospitals did not offer an infection free birthing experience. What they did offer was a pain-free birth, but at a cost. The medications used to deliver this promise often wiped the memory of birth from women’s minds.

In the north, doctors replaced most midwives. In the south, black midwives continued to practice in rural communities, especially in communities that did not have access to hospitals. Midwives from the south were referred to as granny midwifes, not based on their age, but based on the knowledge & wisdom they brought to the table. Many times, they served as the only accessible healthcare provider in remote rural populations.

Women’s liberation movement ignited the desire to bring birth back home. During the 1970s, women sought midwifery care to support their pregnancies. Rates of birthing center & home births has risen over time, most notably, pre & post COVID. There are so many amazing black midwives across the globe. Being able to personally witness their timeless traditions & care has truly influenced many birthworkers today.

As we can see, for many centuries, black midwives were (and still are) the pillar of their communities, across all generations, cultures & races. Their journey has not been easy, but their dedication despite it all is truly a blessing to us all. Their knowledge has influenced many of the current practices & initiatives that support the natural unfolding of birth.

“Black midwives have played a pivotal role in shaping the history of childbirth, their legacy is carried on by many practicing midwives today.”
— BBNYC

Shining Light on 3 Midwives

Mary Francis Hill Coley, born in 1900, served as a midwife in Albany, Georgia, delivering over 3,000 babies during her career.

Margaret Charles Smith was a midwife in a rural area in Alabama during the 1900s. Smith caught her first baby at the age of 5 years old while waiting for the midwife to arrive.

Maude Callen, born in 1898, became a nurse and midwife, delivering over 600 babies during her 60 years of practice. She was known for her advocacy in women’s health & opened the Maude E. Callen clinic to serve members of her community.

Credit: National Museum of African-American History & Culture, Urban Institute, Library of Congress Blogs

Gratitude

I wanted to take time to express my gratitude for everything & everyone that has come into my life since I have started my business. I spent years planning for this moment that I am currently living in, & it feels so incredibly amazing. Me? I have my own business? Still blows my mind. I love what I do, which makes it even that much better. PINCH ME!!

I hope you take time to sit with gratitude. I know life isn’t easy for many of us, but we have so much to be grateful for. As we embark on this new journey of 2024, as the gyms crowd, the smoothie spots sellout, and everyone rushes to set goals for the new year, remain grateful.

Personally, I would like to thank the people who have made this journey something magical. My children & their unwavering support, my fellow doulas who held space for me, my friends & loved ones who make the world the better place AND MY CLIENTS that chose to work with me, who welcomed me into their home without hesitation, and have become my friends. It has been an honor to see you step into your power & to witness your little one’s first breath. I can’t thank you enough for helping me turn my dreams into a reality. A special shoutout to the people that guided me through my own healing journey, I would not be here without you. Thank you.

Sending you love & blessings for a beautiful year <3

Anjanette

Thankful, in all ways, always

There is such beauty to living a life of gratitude. A quiet joy that words cannot explain.

December 9th

My Mama

1945 December 9th is a super special day to me. It is my mother’s birthday. Since my mother transitioned, it has become one of the hardest days to navigate. I planned on writing an elaborate post about my mom, but as December grew closer, my heart grew heavier, so I chose to give myself time to work through my emotions.

What truly stands out for me, right in this moment, is how much God & my mom have stood by me.

They have given me reasons to be happy, to see this day as a day of celebration.

2015 My mom was on home hospice. I just moved into my first home. The house was an absolute mess. I busied myself by tidying up, my mother and I were talking like we usual do when she (out of nowhere) says “Cookie (my nickname from childhood) I could really see you owning your own business”. I stopped cleaning to look up at her, because WHAT? Where did that come from? I never discussed being a business owner, ever. I didn’t know how to respond because it just didn’t make sense, and I didn’t want to hurt her feelings by looking at her like she lost her mind. My mom passed away shortly after we had that conversation. I truly did not remember that conversation until recently.

2021 I knew I wanted to start my own business as a birthworker, this came to me randomly & for some reason, I did not hesitate to make an exit plan from my full-time job. I spent years saving to make the transition, and I officially completed my doula training in December. I immediately filed paperwork to obtain my LLC. On December 9th, 2021 my LLC was official.

2023 On December 9th, I attended my last birth for 2023. A beautiful little girl named Heavenly was born. As I left the birth, my client wished my mother a happy heavenly birthday.

When I tell you I cried. I cried as soon as I left the hospital. My eyes looked like little hamburgers when I got home. So many emotions, sadness, happiness, gratitude, pride, pain, just everything.

I wanted to call my mom so bad. I wanted to tell her about the family that brought new life into the world on her birthday. What were the chances!

I don’t believe in coincidences; life is too deep for that. I see the work the universe does on my behalf, through my family, through God, through my clients. To find healing through grief, is a blessing. I’m ending the year on such a beautiful note.

I love you mommy, thank you <3

My Mommy :)

“Through helping families see their strength & courage, I have discovered my own. Through helping families heal from their trauma(s), I have been able to heal. Through helping families navigate through their grief, I have found peace.”
— Anjanette

Hospital Birth

During pregnancy, families often envision their desired birth experience. They work tirelessly educating themselves, creating a birth plan, learning self-advocacy, just all the things.

The big day arrives & it might not turn out to be what they envisioned, at all.

Imagine the frustration that arises when the anticipation of a low interventional birth is met with the imposition of unnecessary and unexplained medical interventions.

We will be touching on medical interventions that might be used if you are birthing in the hospital.

You’re in the right place if you are:

  • Pregnant

  • Supporting someone who is pregnant

  • Choosing your care team (MD/Midwife, support people)

  • Choosing your birthing space

  • Creating or helping someone to create their birth preferences/birth plan

  • Having discussions with your care provider

  • Learning about how birth unfolds

  • Curious :)

Topics will be broken up so they’re not overwhelming.

Credit goes to the following organizations, use the links below to learn more:

Lamaze International

 

Evidence Base Birth

ACOG

 

Some Background

So, we’ll start from the beginning.

98% of births occur in the hospital setting.

  • Hospitals & OB/GYNs often practice using a medical model of care.

  • The medical model of care focuses on the treatment of illness & disease (pathophysiology-abnormal function).

  • Labor & birth are physiological (normal) in nature.

  • Often the medical model of care is applied to the normal process of birth, meaning that we treat birth like we would a disease by intervening.

There are decades of research about best options in supporting birthgivers during labor. There is extensive research about the labor process because it is understood that pregnancy & birth lay the foundation of a baby’s life. It also becomes engrained into the foundation of the birthgiver’s life.

There are different organizations, providers, researchers, birthworkers & people out there that advocate for allowing birth to unfold naturally (as long as there is no risk to birthgiver and baby).

One of those organizations that many are familiar with is ACOG (American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology).

ACOG is a professional non-profit organization that OB/GYNs can become members of.

ACOG uses current research and committee opinions (inclusive of OB/GYNs, Midwives, healthcare professionals, caregivers & patients) to provide clinical guidelines that assist OB/GYNs in their practice; they also assess issues in OB/GYN care.

When care providers make decisions, they may use guidelines & recommendations set forth by ACOG, medical literature, and/or their own personal work experience.

*Everyone has a different experience. There are hospitals that are more progressive than others when supporting labor & birth the way it should be.

ACOG

Since many view ACOG as a trusted source, let’s look at what ACOG has to say about birth.

ACOG Insight: “Many common obstetric practices are of limited or uncertain benefit for low-risk women in spontaneous labor.”

Reality: The utilization of medical interventions during childbirth has witnessed a significant rise since the transition to hospital-based delivery.

Let’s be real, these practices have become more routine than common.

 

Medical Interventions include:

  • Continuous internal or external electronic fetal monitoring (EFM)

  • Cervical exams

  • Induction of labor

  • Intravenous fluids (IVF)

  • Restrictions on eating, drinking, movement, changing positions

  • Vacuum extraction, use of forceps (during vaginal delivery)

  • Amniotomy (breaking water)

  • Pharmacologic (medication based) pain relief

  • Foley catheter

  • Unnecessary interruptions

  • C-section

  • Directed pushing without urge to push

 

Research

Decades of research have provided us with substantial information.

What we know: There are benefits and risks associated with many treatments & procedures that are available in the hospital setting. If a treatment or procedure is medically indicated, makes sense! The focus here are the interventions performed that are NOT medically indicated & may interfere with the natural unfolding of birth.

By interfering with the natural unfolding of birth, medical interventions may lead to additional interventions, including c-section.

A break of the natural cycle of labor & birth might impact post-birth recovery, breastfeeding, maternal & child bond, or increase the risk of postpartum depression.

We can easily see the short-term impact. We should also acknowledge the possible long-term impact on the physical and emotional well-being of both birthgiver & child. Potential long-term impact: PTSD, anxiety, elevated fear during future pregnancies or births, pelvic floor issues, chronic pain, injury of birthgiver or baby, dissatisfaction with healthcare causing avoidance of current & future care. Feelings of discontentment with the birthing experience or the aftermath of a traumatic birth carry lasting effects.

Evidence Based Recommendations

This increasing medicalization of childbirth processes tends to undermine the woman’s own capability to give birth and negatively impacts her childbirth experience. In addition, the increasing use of labor interventions in the absence of clear indications continues to widen the health equity gap between high- and low-resource settings.

-WHO International

ACOGs recommendations for labor:

  • Birthgivers that go into labor naturally may not require continuous intravenous fluid during admission

  • Most birthgivers should be allowed to move freely without recommending specific positions

  • Care can be specifically individualized for birthgivers with a low-risk pregnancy, in spontaneous labor, where baby is in a head down position.

  • Continuous 1:1 emotional support (ie doula) to improve birth outcomes

  • Option of intermittent monitoring of baby using a hand-held device should be available for low-risk pregnancies

  • Interventions should match the needs & preferences of the birthgiver

 

ACOG Recommendations for managing early labor:

  • If birthgiver & baby are doing well, admission to labor and delivery can be delayed

  • Use of alternative methods of pain relief that do not include pain medication

  • Frequent contact & support of birthgiver

  • Observe (not admit) birthgivers that present with complaints of pain or fatigue

  • Encourage drinking fluids, comfortable positions, and hydrotherapy

Goal: no interventions take place during early labor (if birthgiver & baby are doing fine). Interventions during early labor potentially led to multiple interventions occurring throughout the course of labor.

We will go over 2 of the most common interventions in the hospital, induction & electronic fetal monitoring (EFM). Education is key in making shared decisions with your care provider.

Background of Induction

What is induction? Medications or treatment used to either cause changes of the cervix (causing contractions) or medications that cause the uterus to contract (that start labor or move labor along).

Induction is one of the most common medical interventions used in the United States. Induction has a place in labor if it is medically necessary. Rates of induction have steadily risen over time in the United States.

*Rates of induction of labor (IOL) in the U.S:

1989 9%

2000 19.9%

2010 23.5%

2020 31.17%

Why labor may be medically induced:

  • Birthgiver has health condition(s) that affects their heart, lungs or kidneys

  • Decrease in the fluid surrounding baby (amniotic fluid)

  • Poor fetal growth

  • Uterus infection

  • Issues with the placenta

  • Diabetes (gestational or previous diagnosis)

  • Preeclampsia & eclampsia (preeclampsia symptoms with presence of seizures)

  • Ongoing high blood pressure

  • Water breaks before labor starts

  • Pregnancy at 41-42 weeks

*Per ACOG

 

Induction is done urgently or electively

  • Urgent induction normally occurs if there is a non-emergent medical reason (potentially affecting birthgiver or baby)

  • Elective induction normally occurs when induction is chosen without medical indication. Elective inductions should not occur before 39 weeks.

 

Often, the induction conversation is brought by care providers on or around 39 weeks of pregnancy, referring back to medical research, specifically the ARRIVE trial (see previous link).

You might hear one or all of the following from your care provider:

  • “You’ll need to be induced by 39 weeks” “We cannot let you go past 40 weeks”

  • Reason for using medication to move labor along: “Your contractions aren’t strong enough”—determined by electronic fetal monitoring (EFM) interpretation.

 

ACOG insight on elective induction

Before considering elective induction of labor, we should take into account:

  • ARRIVE trial findings & how it specifically applies to the birthgiver

  • Values & preferences of the birthgiver

  • Resources available in the hospital (including nurse to patient ratio).

  • In order to move forward (or not move forward), care providers & staff should have a discussion with the birthgiver and shared-decision making should take place.

  • When appropriate, OB/GYNs & other obstetric care providers should know how to use & consider using low-interventions for management of low-risk pregnancies during labor that occurs on its own.

*MCN, The American Journal of Maternal/Child Nursing 47(4):p 235, July/August 2022.

 
 
 
 
 

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