How to Beat Baby Brain- It is possible. When women sign up to having babies, we accept the risk that our body will never again be the same. But how about our memory? Why does that go to pot as well? Lucky for us, a whole-food nutrition program during...
After struggling with postpartum bipolar disorder twice and navigating the health care system to no avail, I decided to stand up and advocate for change. And so can you. Here is the story of how the Canadian Perinatal Mental Health Collaborative (CPMHC) came to be and how I...
May is International Doula Month, and if you ended up here, you likely already know that doulas offer a punch full of benefits. The evidence backing doula care ranges from: reducing the incidence of c-sections shortening the length of labour more positive birth & postpartum experiences What we...
There are plenty of reasons why a Cesarean Section might be the best way for you to meet your baby. Some are needed after labouring & pushing. Sometimes they are needed due to a medical complication that would make a vaginal birth not possible. Some are planned as a...
What are the Different Types of Contractions and What They Mean? We often hear from families that they are worried they won’t know when they are starting labour or what the contractions will feel like. Another concern is thinking every pain is a contraction. So what...
Every year, the Scarborough Mirror hosts the Reader’s Choice Awards. The community has the opportunity to nominate their favourite businesses and professionals and then vote the Top 10 listings of each category. Helping Hands Doula was nominated for the Best Health Service category, and then chosen for the most...
As your due date approaches, or perhaps you’ve passed it, most expectant moms are ready to give birth. You feel huge, uncomfortable, tired and just want the baby to come. At the same time, you wish to avoid an induction and go into labour naturally. If this sounds like...
How is anyone supposed to know the ins and outs of car seats? From the very first day, parents are faced with countless decisions about how to keep your baby safe. There are so many questions that can come with the decision on car seats. Where do I buy...
You might be surprised that the typical ‘expecting’ books didn’t make the list. We cut the fluff and go straight to the point with the best books to prepare you mentally for childbirth. Let us know in the comments if you have a suggested read to add to our...
When Kristianne applied to join our team, we thought ‘oh no! 2 Kristi’s! That is going to be very confusing!’ but apparently people with the name Kristi are just amazing. We are so happy she joined us as an important member of our team. Kristianne is apart of our...
There ARE SO MANY CHOICES for baby! That phrase has probably gone through your head many times. Well, today we are going to make it easier on you parents, families, and caregivers. STROLLERS, STROLLERS, STROLLERS. There is so many different options out there, how the heck are you to...
As you prepare to welcome your bundle of joy you have a nursery to decorate, baby gear to get, and likely a million other to-dos running through your head. We know that preparing your finances for your new family is probably somewhere on your list and that thinking about...
Wondering what to bring to the hospital for baby’s arrival? There is quite a few lists around on what to bring for postpartum but not that much on what to bring for labor. It is important to be prepared for what you will need in labour as well as...
So you’ve decided to meet with a potential doula. Congratulations! When meeting someone for the first time you may be concerned about where to start. Here are some suggested questions you can ask that go beyond,
Family and friends can be one of the best supports for new parents as they transition into parenthood. You will want to work with them, however, in order for them to know what the best way to support you is. Here are some tips to help: Communicate your...
Someone you know has just had a baby and you are totally excited. What are some things you should keep in mind and some ways to be the best visitor ever! Wait for an invitation. Send a quick congratulations message and let the parents know that you would like...