Gentle Heart Doula Care

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Gentle Heart Doula Care

Gentle Heart Doula Care Wichita, Kansas Birth Doula & Pregnancy Coach. RN, Safe Sleep & First Aid/CPR Instructor. 🔗 to schedule free meeting!

03/20/2025

There’s some data to suggest that pushing in a side lying position decreases your risk of tearing and here’s how ⬇️

👋🏼 my name is Jessica, I’m a birth doula & RN in Wichita, KS and I coach expecting women to feel informed and empowered in their birth choices!

Side lying can be a great option for pushing whether or not you have an epidural!

When you push side-lying it gives your tailbone the space is needs to move out of baby’s way, PLUS you don’t have to push against gravity like you do when laying on your back!

✨It’s easy to push on your side!

1. Roll onto your side

2. Bend your knees

3. Have your top leg supported by your partner or in a stirrup

SAVE this post to remember for later, and FOLLOW for more birth prep tips and ideas!

03/18/2025

❔Are doulas for c-sections too???

❔What happens if you book a doula and end up needing a c-section???

Birth support for c-sections looks a little different, but 100% still exists!!👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

Want to know more about what that actually looks like? DM or schedule a free consultation for us to meet!

03/11/2025

This. This is what I mean when I talk about the importance of birth advocacy 😳👏🏼

These are all based on true stories that I have witnessed…and honestly pale in comparison to the stories I have been told by countless mothers and other birth workers

Birth advocacy gives you the tools you need to

👉🏻navigate the hospital system and all of its interventions

👉🏻find the right OB provider who won’t ‘surprise’ you during labor

👉🏻and know how to respond in ANY type of scenario so you can always know your options and remain in control of your delivery

Because the truth is…if you don’t know your options, then you don’t have any.

⭐️ Use code FB50 to get my easy online childbirth advocacy e-course for 50% OFF (or only $32.50!) ⭐️

As a Nurse and Birth Doula, I offer this course to allllllll of my doula clients so they too can learn the tips and tricks to feeling empowered and in control of their birth! 🙌🏼

👉🏻Click the link in bio to sign up today!👈🏻

03/06/2025

It’s moments like these that I wonder how dads were ever relegated to just sitting in the waiting room…

✨Partner assisted labor positions✨ can bring that extra boost of oxytocin from having your loved one nearby and touching you (something I could never replace!)

They involve dad by giving him something tangible to do in supporting you - helping him feel involved and making a difference by taking away some of your pain

(Hip squeezes and counter pressure as shown in these photos can be an incredible help in relieving back or pelvic pain during contractions!)

A father’s labor support is a strong example of love not just for you - but also for baby💕

As a doula I provide direction and guidance, letting dads be as involved in the birth experience as they want to be. We practice comfort measures like these during pregnancy, and then take turns with this exhausting task during labor.

Together we work as a team, giving mom all the best support she could possibly get!

02/21/2025

What is a labor comb and how does it work?

The labor comb is just a comb…that’s it! You probably have one already and it can be a great tool to help you cope with contractions.

🤔 How does it work??? 🤔

By something called the pain gate control theory.

In our body we have nerve fibers that detect pain and tell our brain about it.

Some of those fibers are faster than others!

The pain sensation of squeezing a comb will reach your brain FASTER than the sensation of your contraction will

So by flooding your brain with the feeling of the comb, you’re less able to feel the contraction (thus better able to cope with it!)

🤰🏼 FOLLOW Gentle Heart Doula Care for more childbirth education and easy birth prep tips!

02/19/2025

How to qualify for ✨FREE PREGNANCY COACHING✨

Pregnancy coaching is the perfect doula-alternative for moms who want any of the following: ⬇️⬇️⬇️

👉🏻 to prepare their S/O to be the best birth partner with practical hands-on labor tips and comfort measures

👉🏻 a birth doula but can’t afford or find one with on-call availability for your due date

👉🏻 1:1 coaching writing your birth plan and learning how to advocate for your dream hospital birth!

👉🏻 or a regular hospital birth complete with ✨ the works ✨ (epidural, etc.) and don’t think you’d need or want an in-person doula on your birth team!

My pregnancy coaching package is an affordable alternative to in-person doula care AND I’m excited to announce that it’s now…

FREE for expecting moms with UHC as their primary insurance!!!🥳🥳🥳

(Medicaid members will need their doctors to complete a referral form first https://portal.kmap-state-ks.us/Documents/Provider/Forms/Doula/Doula_Services_Referral_Form.pdf)

🙌🏼To get started, schedule your first visit here!
https://calendar.google.com/calendar/u/0/appointments/schedules/AcZssZ3WmdoWG6OJocwjJGpw92MYS1jKJwr7NuJZnmtPRWNx6JzBZfXHgJyQEvcnedDwKgdCl6qiPK4h

02/07/2025

Birth advocacy is something I hold near and dear to my heart. As a RN and birth doula I bring a unique understanding of hospitals, and want to use that understanding to help mothers achieve their dream hospital births!

❌ The trouble is - social media will tell you that the only way to avoid the cascade of interventions is to say “no” to every intervention offered to you

✅ The truth is - you can say “no” all the way to an emergency c-section

👉🏻Advocacy is SO. MUCH. MORE. than just saying no!👈🏻

And it’s a tool that you NEED to know how to use if you’re wanting an unmedicated, natural birth, or if your birth plan is anything different than the typical hospital delivery

I teach how to advocate for your dream hospital birth inside my e-course “Dream Birth, Realized: How to Advocate for Your Best Hospital Birth”

⭐️Get 50% OFF using code: FB50 during checkout!⭐️

(making it just $32.50!!!)

🔗 Link in bio! ➡️

01/31/2025

Did you know January marks my 1 year anniversary of Gentle Heart Doula Care?!

“Blessed” is the word I would use to describe this year. This business started out of a calling I felt to serve women in this way, and God has surely blessed this endeavor.

I want to thank every mother who has trusted me with her birth space — it is an honor and privilege I hold dearly.

It is also worth noting that my husband too deserves some thanks for his trust, endless support, and understanding when I receive those 3am phone calls😉

For the specific highlights from Year 1 - check out my virtual Christmas Card posted in December!

I am blessed that this work truly brings me so much joy, and am eagerly curious to see what this second year holds yet to bring! 🎉

01/21/2025

Did you know?? The majority of first time moms will experience some type of tear after giving birth

Don’t stress! For most women, these heal quickly

🤍 My advice? Learn what you can do prevent tearing, and how to help your body heal naturally during postpartum recovery

Here are 8 evidence based tips to effectively decrease your risk of tears when pushing⬇️

⭐️SAVE this post for when you’re in labor!
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⁣
1️⃣ Warm compress on your “🐱” when pushing

2️⃣ Perineal massage after 34 weeks of pregnancy

3️⃣ Push on your side (or whatever position feels best, mama!) Side lying positions have been studied to decrease risk of tearing

4️⃣ Wait to push until you feel the urge!

5️⃣ Slow down fast labors to help your skin stretch naturally

6️⃣ Practice targeted muscle relaxation during pregnancy to learn how to relax your pelvic floor during birth

7️⃣ Choose your provider carefully - ask your OBGYN or midwife how often their patients tear!

8️⃣ Avoid risks when possible - technically, epidurals do increase the risk of tearing but they also have their benefits!
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⁣
💖Like, share, and FOLLOW for more empowering birth prep tips and ideas!🤰

01/16/2025

These details don’t last…

⬆️ my exact thoughts as I finished editing this precious Fresh 48 photo session after having just completed another gallery for a friend’s 6 month old baby!

Truly, truly, truly. These details don’t last 💕🥹

01/14/2025

How to find YOUR LABOR VOICE 👉🏻

While it is true that hiring a doula gives you an advantage advocating for the birth you want to have, that’s just one part of the equation.

Here’s the thing - I know you’re willing to put in the work. I know you are! You love your baby and you’re determined to make sure you both have a safe, beautiful birth experience.

…You just need someone to tell you how👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻

Because while I can make a SPACE for my laboring mamas’ voice (giving you control of your delivery room like you want)

You have to be the one to actually USE it.

And that is soo much easier said than done!!!

🏥 ESPECIALLY. If you’re planning a hospital birth.

So if you’re planning a birth different from the “standard” or specifically unique to you…you need to know how to advocate for it.

In fact, I made an easy and affordable childbirth e-course so my expecting mamas could do just that!! This is something I recommend to ALL my pregnant moms planning a hospital birth and I hope you’ll consider it for yours as well💕

👉🏻COMMENT “I’m in!” And I’ll send you a code for 50% OFF!!👈🏻

01/07/2025

👇🏻Show this to your birth partner!👇🏻

“Shaking the apple tree” is a great comfort measure you can use during labor and birth (heck even during pregnancy too!)

How to do it???

1️⃣ Get into a hands and knees position or kneel forward onto a couch, bed, etc.

2️⃣ Have your partner drape a sheet, thin towel, or rebozo over your hips.

3️⃣ Your partner will grab either end of the sheet and alternate gently moving their hands down

The end result will be a relaxing “jiggle” of the hips!

You’ll notice when this is done it’s hard to tense or clench your pelvic floor muscles, giving baby space they need to navigate your pelvis!

🤰🏼FOLLOW Gentle Heart Doula Careare for more birth prep tips and ideas! 💕

12/27/2024

Take back control of your hospital birth by finding YOUR LABOR VOICE! ⏰ Save 50% today! ⏰

Advocating for yourself during labor is easier said than done—especially in a hospital, where routines and standards of care don’t always match your preferences.

But you can have the birth experience you want. 💕

As a Registered Nurse and a Birth Doula, I created this childbirth advocacy e-course so you can learn exactly how to:

✅ Take back control of your delivery room

✅ Confidently navigate conversations with your care team during pregnancy and birth

✅ Feel empowered and prepared—no matter what type of birth you’re planning

🌟 Join a growing community of moms who’ve found their labor voice and created the birth experience they wanted. 🌟

💬 “As someone who wants to have an unmedicated birth but didn’t feel confident in my knowledge around advocating for myself, this course was so helpful!” - S.N

💬 “I wish all my friends could be presented with this information!” - G.C

Don’t miss your chance to save! Use code FB50 at checkout for 50% off today!👇

12/24/2024

2024 "Christmas Card" & UPDATES!! 🎄

This first year in business has been at times a rollercoaster of triumphs and doubts. I feel so blessed to be ending the year, looking ahead to a FULL and wonderful 2025!!

I wasn't kidding when I said that becoming a doula was my calling. God has used this adventure to grow me in confidence, community, and trust. He has provided for our family every step of the way and we are excited to see His continued blessings in 2025!

UPDATES:
* NEW SERVICES: Gentle Heart Doula Care now offers Childbirth Education, Birth Photography, Fresh 48 photography, and Postpartum Doula Dupport in addition to our regular Birth Doula Support!
* I am COMPLETELY BOOKED until late February. If you know of a spring due date mama looking for a doula, send this post her way before it's too late!

Wishing everyone who sees this a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! I'll see you in 2025 😊💖

12/19/2024

Let’s talk labor environments👉🏻

👋🏼 my name is Jessica, I’m a registered nurse and birth doula in the Wichita, KS area

Something I include in every birth planning meeting is “what do you want your birth environment to look like?”

The reason being - that we were made to labor in places we feel SAFE. In places we feel secure and supported…

I consider it one of my super powers! - turning a sterile hospital room into a cozy atmosphere for labor to progress 🫶🏼

Some of my favorite tips are:
• turning away from the clock
• turning down the machine noise
• dimming the lights
• adding mood lighting
• playing soft music
• having items from home nearby or wearing
• (if you’re an essential oil girlie) essential oils💕

Follow to stay up to date and for more birth prep content!

12/17/2024

Maybe “sleeping like a husband” would be better??😅

What do you think!👇🏻

12/13/2024

I need you to believe me when I say that labor is a marathon.

Average first time moms labor for 12-24 hours. This means 12-24 hours without sleep for many.

Average length of active labor for a first time mom (contractions are 5 minutes apart or your cervix is dilated 6cm) is 4-8 hours.

And these are just ✨AVERAGES✨

I’ve seen shorter, and I’ve seen much. much. longer.

So do me a favor and believe me when I say that labor is a marathon.

Train your body.

Train your mind.

And when labor starts, Rest. Eat. Give your body the fuel it needs because you never know how long it’s going to take🫶🏼

12/10/2024

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Doula work is truly all about word of mouth. Here’s what one of my previous moms is saying!

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Wichita, KS

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https://gentleheartdoulacare.com/

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Videos

If your hospital birth plan has ANYTHING different than the typical “cascade of interventions” on it…then you 100% NEED to know how to advocate for your dream birth 💯 “Dream Birth, Realized: How to Advocate for Your Best Hospital Birth” is every pregnant mama’s solution to confidently taking back control of your delivery room so you can have your dream birth! 🙌🏼 Filled with quick, easy to understand videos and ready-to-use pdf handouts…this 90 minute course will leave you feeling confident and prepared for your next hospital birth!

Planning a hospital birth? You need to know this⬇️ 👋🏼 I’m Jessica, a Registered Nurse and Birth Doula! I’m a sucker for a good birth story, especially hospital ones. I feel like everyone’s birth story is so unique, and I love seeing how the experiences differ depending on which hospital or doctor/nurse you have! In fact, I was talking with a mom the other day who shared with me that while her nurse was GOOD, she didn’t know how much better she could be until she learned more about doula support! So it got me thinking…⬇️ As with most things, there is a spectrum of knowledge/skills people can have about physiological birth The nurse you get may be on the far left side with ZERO understanding or comfort caring for natural labor… (some nurses have literally never seen it and don’t feel comfortable around unmedicated labor) Or they may be a total rockstar nurse-doula combo when it comes to supporting you!! (Which I hope!) 🤔 But, if you’re wanting an unmedicated hospital birth…why leave it up to chance which nurse you will get? FOLLOW @gentleheartdoulacare for more childbirth education and birth prep tips! 💕By hiring a doula, that’s one extra person on your birth team who is trained in supporting you to achieve the birth experience of your dreams 👉🏻Your doula will meet with you before labor so you can feel comfortable and confident about having her on your birth team, AND so she’s extra familiar about what matters to you when it comes to your birth experience! 👉🏻Your doula will sit with you during labor, even while your nurse leaves to chart or take care of other patients. 👉🏻Your doula will work with your nurse to put you in positions that help bring comfort and encourage baby’s descent Like, SAVE, share, and follow for more birth preparation tips and ideas! #baby #laboranddelivery #naturallabor #momtobe #firsttimemom #pregnantmomma #wichitadoula #birthdoulatips

Wondering what to ask on your birth plan?? ⭐️ But first! FOLLOW so you don’t miss out on more upcoming childbirth education and birth prep tips! 😩Birth planning can seem overwhelming! There’s sooooo many decisions to make, and you want to feel like you’ve made the right one for you and baby! As a birth doula with type A personality, I HAD to know that I was covering all my bases while still not overdoing it….ya know??😅 🤩That’s why I created my Ultimate Birth Planning Masterclass and made it FREE! 🤗So you can have the same access to this easy guide of all the questions you should be asking when birth planning during pregnancy To get your free link to the recording, just go you know where! 😉🔗👉🏻 FOLLOW @gentleheartdoulacare for more childbirth education and birth prep tips!💕 #baby #naturalbirth #laboranddelivery #momtobe #expectant #birthpreparation #pregnantmomma #firsttimemom #thirdtrimester #pregnancyplanning

Avoid this birth scenario!⬇️ ⭐️ But first! Like & follow for more childbirth prep tips and education! 💭 Imagine this… • you go to your 36 week pregnancy appointment • on your birth plan you have “delayed cord clamping” • your OB tells you everything looks fine… • but then at your birth the cord is only delayed for 30 seconds before clamping 🤔 Is that what you had in mind?? Birth planning conversations don’t have to be limited to only your 36 week appointment! During your WHOLE pregnancy you should be talking with your doctor about your birth goals Asking them what their “standard of care” practices are… You may find out that “delayed cord clamping” only means 30 seconds to them! So…how do we prevent this? 1️⃣ being specific on your birth plan. If you want to wait until the cord is white and stops pulsing, write that! 2️⃣ ask your doctor open ended questions like “How do you typically support moms who want ___” to find out what their standard of care practice is 3️⃣ follow @gentleheartdoulacare for more birth prep tips and education to feel informed and empowered in making your pregnancy decisions! #baby #momtobe #expectant #birthpreparation #childbirtheducation #pregnantmomma #firsttimemom #birthdoulasupport #36weekspregnancy #doulatips

That due date math is real…😅 Congrats to all my wonderful mamas who are expecting new babies in the coming months!💖 Like and follow! @gentleheartdoulacare #pregnancyannouncement #pregnancyhumor #relatableskit

Most people planning on epidurals forget this simple thing⤵️ 💖🤰🏼 But first! FOLLOW for birth prep tips and ideas so you can feel confident and prepared no matter what type of birth you end up having! Ok here’s the thing… ✨ You won’t ALWAYS have your epidural ✨ 😳 In fact, you may NEVER get your epidural! Maybe labor goes too fast… The anesthesiologist takes longer to get there than you want… Or the epidural flat out doesn’t work… (happens in about 1 out of 10 births!) ⁉️So what do we do then??? 🙌🏼We PRACTICE and PREPARE for an unmedicated birth! 🤍Because even with planned inductions or cesareans, there is always the chance that you will go through some contractions without any pain medication 🔗 Click the link in profile to schedule 1:1 personalized support from a Birth Doula to help you feel confident and prepared for the birth that you want! #epidurals #laboranddelivery #momtobe #expectant #birthpreparation #childbirtheducation #firsttimemom #birthdoulasupport #thirdtrimester #wichitamom

Healthy mom healthy baby implies that… 💔 birth stories don’t matter 💔 positive birth experience isn’t the goal 💔 birth trauma is okay STOP. We 👏🏼 should 👏🏼 want 👏🏼 more! 👏🏼 🤗 Mamas, you DESERVE more! So let’s change the goal! What do you think it should be? Tell me in the comments!👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻 #expecting #baby #laboranddeliverynurse #birthdoula #wichitadoula #pregnancyquotes #empoweredbirth #momtobe #newmom #thirdtrimester