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Guide to a Healthy Birth

# 6 of a series • 2012/2013

Free to the Public

The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org 1
Table of Contents
Welcome............................................................................. 2
My Gift to You
Marie Theresa Clary........................................................ 3
Becoming a New Mother: A Doorway for Transformation
Sheryl Paul, MA................................................................ 4
Choices in Childbirth’s 5 Steps to a Healthy Birth............ 7
Questions to Ask Your Care Provider............................... 10
Lessons Learned: A Tale of Four Births
Leta Hamilton.................................................................13
Impact of Doulas...............................................................15
What Is Shared Decision Making?
Amy Romano, CNM....................................................... 16
Delayed Umbilical Cord Clamping................................... 18
Know Your Legal Rights................................................... 19
Insurance Coverage for Midwifery Care.......................... 24
Cesarean Section Rates at New York City
Metro Hospitals ............................................................... 25
Low Cost Options for Care
Ekua Ansah-Samuels.....................................................29
Published by Choices in Childbirth Protecting Your Pregnancy from Harmful Toxins........... 33
Eating for Two
Founder and Executive Director: Élan V. McAllister Rachelle LaCroix Mallik, RD......................................... 34
Is Home Birth for You?.................................................... 37
Program Manager: Grace Rice
Unhurrying the Moment of Birth
Editor: Milon Nagi Mary Esther Malloy, MA............................................... 39
Supporting Initiation of Breastfeeding............................ 41
Editorial Team: Laure Sinnhuber-Giles, Shara Frederick, CIMS Mother-Friendly Childbirth Initiative................... 42
Tanya Wills, Julia Katz & Erin Mooney Mother-Friendly Provider Listings..................................46
Resources...........................................................................71
Board of Directors: Alexandra Hochman, Jason D’Angelo,
Sheila Kamara Hay & Ricki Lake (Honorary Board Member)

Cover Photo: Elias, 8 months - © Amanda Gentile

Design: Laura Varrone - LVDesignStudio.net

Printer: Incredible Printing

Choices in Childbirth
441 Lexington Avenue, 19th Floor, New York, NY, 10017
212.983.4122 • www.choicesinchildbirth.org Lana & Elad
welcome
Mayan
© Shara Frederick

2 The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org © 2012 Choices in Childbirth All rights reserved. This Guide, or parts
thereof, may not be reproduced in any form without permission.
Welcome to Choices in Childbirth’s
Sixth Edition of the
Guide to a Healthy Birth!

We are thrilled to announce that this year we have

expanded the reach of our Guide to include resources for
communities outside of the five boroughs of New York
City. This New York Metro edition of the Guide contains
providers and resources from Long Island, Westchester
and Rockland counties, northeast New Jersey and
southwest Connecticut!  
my gift to you
The Guide to a Healthy Birth is packed full of old eyes
information for families like yours engaged in making tiny fingers
important maternity care decisions.  We believe that I layered these arms
knowledge is power and that the birth of your child is to soften my bones
an important time to be as informed and empowered to tuck you in
as you can be.  We hope that the Guide proves to be a and hold you close
useful tool for you and your family as you navigate your and let you sleep
childbirth options and determine the birth plan that is unhitched
right for you.    accepting your safety
unquestioned
We would like to express our thanks to all of the Mother-
Friendly providers listed in the Guide for the important one day
work that they do.  We are grateful to all of the brilliant when the hard times
article contributors for sharing their insight and bend your way
expertise.  Thank you to our sponsors and supporters and they will
for making this publication possible. Finally, we give our they must
thanks to all of the hearts and hands that came together it’s my hope
to create this important resource. that you’ll tuck yourself
back here
We wish you and your baby a healthy, safe, respectful in my arms
and deeply satisfying birth experience. into the memory
of absolute safety

even if it gives
Élan McAllister just a moment’s relief
Founder, Executive Director that’s enough
the best
Choices in Childbirth is a NYC-based not-for-profit I can give you
dedicated to educating the public about women’s rights and in my long sleep
and options in childbirth as well as advocating for access my comfort
to optimal maternity care services for all. At Choices in
Childbirth we believe that birth is a sacred event. We tiny fingers
believe that how we come into this world matters.  We old eyes
believe that every family should have access to care that with all my heart
Arianna
is both safe and deeply fulfilling.   my gift with Lila,
to you 2 weeks
Please visit our website at www.choicesinchildbirth.org
for more resources and a schedule of free monthly MTC 06/12
workshops for expectant parents.  ©Alice Garik

4 The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org 5
Becoming a New Mother: on the other side – i.e. the baby – and then continue on
as if nothing has changed.
A Doorway for Transformation
Sheryl Paul Not only does our culture fail to provide an emotional
roadmap to pregnant women and their partners, it
Transitions are profound opportunities for growth and actually encourages women to “go, go, go” and covertly
healing. Each time we walk through a portal of transition transmits the message that a baby is an inconvenience to
– whether we’re graduating, moving, getting married, or the work environment. Where some countries offer new
becoming a mother – we leave behind the familiar and mothers one full year of paid maternity leave, we expect
move into the unknown. Transitions, like earthquakes, women to “get back on the horse” often within weeks
shake up our foundations. In the midst of the tremors of delivery. This cultural pressure hinders a woman’s
it’s natural to feel scared, sad and out of control, which natural instinct to slow down and turn inward as she
will cause us to either hang on more tightly to the knows that the values and ethics of the work world are
old, familiar life or, if we allow it, to surrender to the tugging at her to return.
unfamiliar sensations and let go into the new life. It is
in this letting go that we say goodbye to the old ways, There is a significant downside to this approach: when a
surrender our illusions of control, grieve what will never woman powers through her pregnancy, refusing to slow
be again and then make room for something new to be down into the natural rhythm that her body is begging
born: an identity, a way of life, new aspects of ourselves. her to follow and unwilling to let go of her old way of life
and “non-mother” identity – her freedom, her lifestyle,
Sadly, our culture fails to provide a roadmap for those in the illusion of control over her life, her marriage, her
transition to help them make sense of these emotional body – she will be unable to truly embrace motherhood
earthquakes. Imagine, for example, if alongside and be fully present for her baby. This is when we see
information about how your baby was growing and new mothers having difficulty bonding with their
changing week-by-week, you received updates of your babies. This is when we see women seeking the safety
emotional development as a new, emerging mother! and familiarity of work before their maternity leave has
Imagine if alongside the nutritional recommendations ended. The old life and identity weigh her down; the
you had a list of questions that you and your partner unexplored expectations keep her awake at night; the
could be asking yourselves and each other to help you ungrieved losses wedge a wall between her and her baby.
successfully navigate the tricky terrain of becoming
parents. Imagine if you had someone guiding you down Laura & Neil
these new inner roads and saying, “Okay, the first with Riley,
trimester is the time to turn inward as the seeds of your minutes
new mother identity are gestating. The second trimester old
is the time to turn outward and explore your expectations
of yourself, your partner and your baby. And during your
third trimester you’ll form a cocoon as you disconnect
from the outer world and prepare psychologically for
labor. You see how you are contracting and expanding
emotionally and psychologically to birth your new
identity, just as your uterus will contract and your
cervix will expand to birth your new baby? Isn’t it
extraordinary?!” © Mary Esther Malloy

Instead, our culture focuses on the more identifiable

periods that bookend life’s changes, like the physical But it doesn’t have to be this way. In fact, when
components of growing a baby and how to raise a healthy you understand that it’s normal to grieve during
child. We offer pregnant women ultrasound reports and pregnancy, when you take time each day to address
lists of things they need to buy without educating them your expectations, explore your natural fears and learn
on the spiritual aspects of pregnancy and preparing effective tools for managing your anxiety, pregnancy
them for the seismic shifts that occur when the baby becomes the transformational vessel inside which you
arrives. We see transitions as something to get through prepare to birth your new identity as a mother. Guided
so we can collect the “happily ever after” prize that waits by ancient wisdom that teaches that the rebirth of

6 The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org 7
spring can only follow the shedding of autumn, you do
the only work that really matters: you grieve the old
“I’m Pregnant!! Now What?”
life so that you can make room for the new. Just as the
butterfly cannot emerge until the caterpillar completely We love it when a woman asks questions, educates
relinquishes its old identity, you can only emerge as a herself, and takes an active role in her maternity care
beautiful new mother when you let go of the identity as decisions!
non-mother.
The birth of your child will be one of the most important
In other words, you are not only growing your baby; you and memorable experiences of your life. It is worth
are growing yourself. More important than buying the the effort and time to learn about all of your childbirth
right car seat or stroller is tilling your inner soil so that options so that you can make the decisions that are right
your identity as a new mother can take root on a healthy for you and your family.  Once you’ve identified what’s
foundation. By taking time each day to turn inward and important to you, you’ll be able to clearly communicate
journal through the questions, fears and expectations your wishes and choose a care provider and birth
that are populating your mind, you give your baby the environment that will respect and honor your choices. 
best chance for a healthy beginning: a prepared mother,
ready to embrace her baby with open arms and begin the We’ve put together a list of five basic steps that will help
empowering and lifelong journey of motherhood. guide you through the process of making these decisions. 
We encourage you to identify a birth partner (spouse,
........................................................................................... partner, family member, close friend) and invite them
Sheryl Paul, M.A., has counseled thousands of people into this process and to go through each step together. 
worldwide via her private practice, her bestselling books Your partner will ideally be your primary support person
and her website http://conscious-transitions.com. She and advocate during labor and birth. The more prepared
has been featured several times on “The Oprah Winfrey your partner is to ask questions and make requests on your
Show”, as well as on “Good Morning America” and behalf, the more you’ll be set up for an empowered and
other media around the globe. Her home study course healthy birth.
for pregnant women and new mothers, “Birthing a New
Mother: A Roadmap from Preconception Through the The Five Steps to a Healthy Birth
First Year to Calm Your Anxiety, Prepare Your Marriage
Step 1:  Educating Yourself
and Become the Mother you Want to Be,” can be found
at http://birthinganewmother.com. She lives in Boulder, Knowledge is power! Start this exciting new phase in
Colorado with her husband and two sons. your life from an empowered position! In today’s world
you have access to a seemingly limitless amount of
information about pregnancy and birth. Dive in! Sign
up for a comprehensive childbirth education class, read
healthy pregnancy and birthing books and magazines,
and watch documentaries on childbirth. Reach out
to parents, providers and birth organizations in your
area to find out about local resources and to get a
sense of what birth options are available to you in your
community.  Check the Choices in Childbirth website
for resources, our list of recommended books and films,
and to find childbirth educators and parenting support
classes in your area.

Step 2:  Listening to Your Body

Your body is about to embark on an epic journey! 
Pregnancy and childbirth will challenge you in all kinds
of new and exciting ways. Despite the fast pace of life,
this is a time for you to really listen and connect to your
Connor, body’s messages. During this time your needs will be
4 months changing almost continually. Take time to check in with
© Milon Nagi yourself each day and really listen to what your body is

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telling you. Making this connection now will not only will respect your wishes.  Trust your gut!  Once you’re in
optimize your health during pregnancy, but will also be labor you won’t be able to convince your care provider
invaluable during labor and birth.   to go against their own birth philosophy and follow your
wishes. This is an unrealistic and often disappointing
Some of the things you will want to consider are your expectation.  Listen to your instincts NOW as to whether
diet, the rest and exercise you’ll require, and the levels or not the provider is the right one for you. There are
of stress in your life.  Nurturing yourself and your body many different perspectives surrounding appropriate
is the very first step in caring for your baby.  Reach out care during childbirth. Make sure to research the various
for support when necessary and enjoy putting yourself models of care before choosing a provider. Options
and your body’s needs first. Check the Mother-Friendly for maternity care providers include Obstetricians,
Provider Listings in this Guide or the online Choices in Midwives, Family Physicians, and Osteopaths. Check
Childbirth Provider Network for listings of nutritionists, the Listings in this Guide or on the Choices in Childbirth
body workers and fitness instructors in your area. website for Mother-Friendly providers in your area.

Step 3:  Creating Your Personal Birth Philosophy Step 5:  Choosing Your Birth Environment 
Now that you’ve started to educate yourself about Your personal philosophy and vision for your birth will
pregnancy and birth and are tuning in to your body’s help you determine the right birth environment.  The
changing needs, it’s time to make some choices. Step 3 vast majority of women in the United States birth in hos-
is about identifying your own personal philosophy and pitals. While this is the dominant choice, it is not neces-
creating a vision for your child’s birth. It is time to get sarily your only one.  In many locations, women may also
really honest and clear with yourself. For example, do have the choice of birthing in free-standing birth centers,
you believe the process of birth is: Safe? Scary? Sacred? hospital-based birth centers, or in their own homes.  
Do you believe that labor and birth require medical Which of these choices best matches your philosophy
assistance? Do you feel it is a normal, natural process? and vision? For instance, women wishing to have a nat-
Do you fear labor is potentially dangerous?  Do you ural, unhurried birth generally have a hard time finding
want medical assistance throughout? Do you want to support for this choice in a hospital setting. Likewise,
deliver in the most natural way possible?  Do you fall women who believe that birth is potentially dangerous
somewhere in between, believing that birth is usually might not feel safe birthing at home or in a birth center.
safe but feeling that you want a higher level of medical Where will you feel best supported and safest birthing
expertise on hand, just in case?  your child?

Ask yourself big questions and listen honestly to your “If only I’d known then what I know now.” 
answers.  Notice what fears come up for you and talk
These are heartbreaking words. 
them through with your partner, support people or
a counselor.  Once you have a sense of your beliefs
Birth doesn’t always go the way that we expect it to. 
about birth you will be ready to make the maternity
Sometimes women are disappointed when their birth
care decisions that are right for you such as where,
takes an unexpected turn.  This is understandable.  But
how, and with whom to birth. The Mother-Friendly
there’s a big difference between not having the birth
Provider Listings and Choices in Childbirth’s Online
that you hoped for because of unforeseen complications
Provider Network can help you find prenatal counselors
and not having the birth that you hoped for because
and doulas who can assist you in this process.
you weren’t fully informed or the providers serving you
 
didn’t share your philosophy or respect your wishes.  
Step 4:  Choosing Your Care Provider
Choosing a maternity care provider is the single most We strongly encourage you to take the time to become
important decision that you will make.  Ask for referrals educated about your options, connect to your birth
from sources you trust and take the time to interview at philosophy, develop your vision, and select the providers
least 2 or 3 providers to ensure that you find  the best and setting that will support you to the fullest. And,
possible match.  Ask your provider many questions finally, have a terrific birth!
to make sure he/she supports and agrees with your ..................................................................................
personal birth philosophy (For some guidelines, see For more information including local provider listings,
“Questions to Ask Your Provider).  You should feel resources and recommended books and films, visit
confident that your provider is skilled  AND  that they www.choicesinchildbirth.org.

10 The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org 11
Questions To Ask Your • Intercourse before spontaneous rupture of membranes
(SROM)
Care Provider • Nipple stimulation
• Herbs
• Acupuncture
Here are some suggested questions to encourage • Enema
dialogue and help you get a sense of your care provider’s • Castor oil
approach. These questions are not intended to apply to • Stripping of membranes
all women or all situations. It is a good idea to interview • Artificial rupture of membranes (AROM)
at least 2 or 3 providers and it is never too late to change • Pitocin
providers if you are not comfortable with the answers
you receive. 10. What is your protocol regarding the following
procedures and how often do you perform them?
1. Will you be at my birth? At what point in the labor
• Heparin Lock
will you join me? Who cares for me before that?
• IVs
2. Is there a limit to the number of people who can • Continuous versus intermittent fetal monitoring
accompany me during my birth? How do you feel • Internal fetal monitoring
about a labor support professional such as a doula or • Cathetarization
massage therapist joining my birth team? • Artificial rupturing of the membranes (AROM)
• Epidural
3. Will I be allowed to eat and drink in labor? • Assisted vaginal delivery (forceps/ vacuum)
• Episiotomy
4. If I were interested in having a natural, unmedicated
birth, how would you feel about it? 11. What is your cesarean rate? What factors do you
believe contribute to that rate? What is your VBAC
5. What comfort measures do you recommend? success rate and how many do you attempt each year?
What are your standard protocols for VBAC mothers?
Freely changing positions and walking around
Laboring at home as long as possible 12. Will I be able to choose the position in which I
Water therapy (shower/tub) will push and give birth such as side-lying, all fours,
Vocalization and visualization or squatting?
A doula
Narcotics (Stadol/Demerol) 13. Do you believe in active management of the third
Epidural stage, delivery of the placenta? If everything is fine
with me and my baby, would I be able to birth my
6. What would you recommend I do if my water breaks placenta at my own pace?
before contractions have begun? How long after my water
breaks would you recommend induction if my labor 14. Can my baby remain with me at all times from the
doesn’t start on its own? Can I still use a tub/shower? moment of birth? Do you support skin-to-skin contact
between my baby and I immediately after birth? 
7. What are your protocols regarding my due date, i.e.
inducing labor at 40 weeks? 41 weeks? 42 weeks? If I 15. How will you and your colleagues support me
am approaching my due date and tests show that my as I initiate breastfeeding? Can we delay newborn
baby and I are doing well, can I wait until labor starts procedures until breastfeeding has been initiated?
on its own?
16. (For home birth midwives) How long will you stay
8. Do you believe in active management of the first with me after my baby is born?
stage of labor? For example, would progress of less
than one cm per hour call for artificial rupture of 17. (For home birth midwives) What is your rate
membranes (AROM) or Pitocin? If everything is fine of transfer to the hospital? Which hospitals do you
with me and my baby, will I be able to labor at my own transfer to, and do you have admitting privileges
pace and for as long as I need? there? Who are your consultant obstetricians? Will I
be able to meet or interview them?
9. If you feel that labor has to be stimulated, what .....................................................................................
methods do you recommend? Does this change at 41 For more Questions to Ask Your Care Provider, visit our
weeks or 42 weeks? website: www.choicesinchildbirth.org

12 The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org 13
Lessons Learned:
Learn from the birth experiences A Tale of Four Births
of new parents…. Leta Hamilton

Each month, Choices in Childbirth hosts free Giving birth in a teaching hospital is a strange
workshops for new and expectant parents in experience. Not only are there nurses and doctors, but
our community. Each evening features stories also a parade of interns coming through to observe
from local parents who have had recent birth “woman in labor.” My first child was born under these
experiences and expert commentary from conditions. We were living in London and the nearest
Mother-Friendly birth professionals. The hospital was a short walk away. Having our baby any
meetings address a different topic related to place else was never a question. Life, however, is a
birth and parenting each month including: learning process and we learn through experience. With
Choosing a Care Provider, Coping Strategies so many staff putting needles in my arms and monitors
for Labor, Men and Birth, Cesarean/ VBAC causing so much noise, there was nothing about this
Options, and Breastfeeding. These meetings birth that felt “mine” any longer. Being in labor for
help expectant parents to appreciate the wide eighteen hours with what felt like zero privacy inspired
range of options available as they prepare to strong opinions about what constituted the optimal birth
birth and parent their babies. experience. This was not it.

............................................................................ I knew I wanted a different birth experience the second
Find the schedule of events online at time around, and having a friend who had a home birth
www.choicesinchildbirth.org solidified my resolve to do the same. I approached my
due date with an open mind. We were still in the UK,
where home birth is a much more common practice than
in the US. And the hospital was only five minutes away
if something were to go wrong. About a week before
my due date and unable to fall asleep, I rested in the
living room kneeling over a big purple yoga ball and
listening to a CD of soothing music in the dark. After
nearly three hours of this calm drifting in and out of
sleep, I told my husband that I was in labor. Within a few
minutes I went from preparing for birth to having full on
contractions. My husband called the midwife and then,
when it was obvious that this baby was coming quickly,
the paramedics. As the baby’s head made its way out,
our midwife arrived. My husband answered the door,
then raced back in time to catch our son as he launched
out. This birth experience, while nerve wracking for my
husband, was the most empowering thing that has ever
happened to me. Without drugs, I was able to feel my
baby traveling down my birth canal, an indescribable
feeling that has to be experienced to be believed. My
body, my instincts and my soul knew what to do. It
remains to this day my best birth experience with any of
my four children.

Becoming pregnant a third time was not part of the plan,

but we were not exactly scientific with our birth control.
We were living in the United States by this time, and
Brittany, I decided to take a Hypnobirthing class and deliver in
8 months the kind of trance I had seen on Regis and Kathie Lee.
© Alice Garik We also planned to have a birthing pool and deliver in

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the water. But one person’s birth experience is not like to be done. I wanted the home birth experience again.
another’s, and, in the end, I was not feeling “trance-like” There was no question of that. But it took a real toll
during labor. Nor was I feeling drawn to the pool. Every on me physically to have to be there again, when I had
time I sat in it everything seemed to slow down and all believed that part of my life was over. I had been brought
I wanted to do was get out. My big epiphany with this full circle from a hospital birth where I had completely
birth was: “It’s my birth and I can do what I want to surrendered all control over to hospital staff to this birth
do.” My first birth had been taken completely out of my where I surrendered to an ultimate power that clearly
hands by the hospital staff and my second had, in a weird knew something about my life’s purpose that I hadn’t yet
way, been taken over by unseen forces that led me to discovered.
act entirely out of instinct. I had different plans for this
birth. I had an ideal scenario that included delivering my I have learned more than I bargained for through my four
baby with my midwife, husband and best friend by my birth experiences. 1) Women frequently give away their
side, in the water and in some kind of blissful hypnotic power to “experts” who they believe know better than
trance. None of it turned out that way. My thundering they do; 2) No one knows better than you when it comes
“ah-ha” moment came on the couch when it dawned to your body and its capabilities; 3) Only you know what
on me that if I screamed it would feel really good. After is right for you in any given situation; and 4) When you
that, I screamed for each contraction. My son arrived are completely honest with yourself it isn’t always pretty,
within a few minutes. All my focus on calmness had been but it always leads to a better understanding of how your
about taking on someone else’s birth experience and my character is prepared for what you have been dealt in
belief that their way should be my way. I learned from life. You are stronger than you think.
this experience that my way was my way, and that was ......................................................................................
okay. Now I felt empowered to do anything and had the Leta Hamilton is Seattle-based blogger of “The Way of
confidence to create a path unique to me. the Toddler: Spiritual Lessons from Our Zen Masters in
Diapers.” She is a former radio show host, speaker and
workshop facilitator teaching inner peace strategies for
moms. Currently on maternity leave with her fourth son,
she is the author of “The Way of the Toddler” (published
by HALO Publishing).

Impact of Doulas
Having someone by your side who believes in
you, trusts that you are capable of birthing your
child, and stays with you for every step of your
labor is often all a woman needs in order to find
her strength and birth her child without the aid
Isabel &
of costly medical interventions. Research shows
Zachary
that the continuous presence of a supportive
with Azai © Shara Frederick
doula not only leads to a more empowering birth
experience, but also to fewer medical interven-
After our third child, my husband had a vasectomy tions, healthcare cost savings, and a host of im-
almost immediately. It came as an incredible shock proved birth outcomes, such as:
when, two years later, I discovered I was pregnant again. • 21% lower cesarean section rate
Apparently, around 1 in 2,000 vasectomies can naturally • Shorter labors
reverse. Already four and a half months pregnant • Less need for anesthesia or analgesia
by the time I put all the clues together, the next stage • Fewer vacuum and/or forceps births
was to transcend my resentful feelings and arrive at • Higher APGAR scores
some sort of peace and happiness with this unexpected • Better mother-baby bonding
development. I turned again to the home birth midwives • Less postpartum depression
who had delivered my third baby. With their help, my • More positive feelings about the birth
husband’s support and a lot of soul searching, I began to
embrace the new life coming into our lives. My final birth Taken from the New York Coalition for Doula Ac-
experience was traumatic because I was not expecting to cess Petition for New York State Medicaid Fund-
ing of Doula Support dated 10/31/2011.
have to go through childbirth ever again. I just wanted

16 The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org 17
What Is Shared Decision What Steps Are Involved?
The first step is gathering answers to some simple
Making? questions.
Amy Romano, CNM 1. What are my options?
Don’t forget that doing nothing is almost always an
During pregnancy and when it is time to give birth, you
option. Make sure your care provider tells you about
face lots of health care decisions. It is your choice to say
all the options - even those that might mean going
“yes” or “no” to any blood test, ultrasound, medication, or
somewhere else for your care. For example, if a care
procedure that your midwife or doctor may recommend. provider or hospital has policies restricting vaginal birth
You want to make the decision that is right for you and after cesarean (VBAC), you should still be able to weigh
your baby, but it can be hard to know what that is. VBAC as an option and get care from another provider if
you decide VBAC is right for you.
You have probably made other decisions as you prepare
to welcome your baby. What kind of car seat should I 2. What is involved with each option?
buy? Where will my baby sleep? What kind of diapers Try to understand what to expect with each option. How
will we use? Chances are if you have made a decision like do you need to prepare? What does it feel like? Does it
this, you found out what you could about your options, involve other procedures or follow-up testing? What is
weighed the pros and cons, thought about what was most the recovery like? For example, when you are deciding
important to you and asked for advice from people you about induction of labor, it helps to know that it usually
trust. These same steps can help you make good health involves having a monitor record your baby’s heart rate
care decisions now. at all times, and that you may be advised not to eat or
drink anything while your labor is induced.
Shared decision making can help you make decisions
3. What are the possible benefits and harms of each
based on what is most important to you, while taking into
option and how likely are these to happen to me or my
consideration health care information from your doctor, baby?
midwife or other trustworthy sources. You communicate This is where the research comes in. Research can tell
your priorities and concerns to your doctor or midwife you if a test or treatment is likely to help someone like
and they communicate medical information to you. you, and what side effects or other problems are possible.
Whenever possible, this information should be based It can also help you understand the possible benefits and
on good quality research and not just opinion. Then you harms of choosing not to proceed. Sometimes research
and your care provider can decide together what the best doesn’t give all the information you want, but your care
option is for you. provider should work to help you understand whatever
information is available.
Is Shared Decision Making the Same as Informed
Consent? The next step is to think about what is most important
to you. What are your goals, concerns, and preferences,
Shared decision making is an important way to make and which option seems to line up with those the best?
an informed decision, but it is not the same as informed You might need to take some time to think, get a second
consent. If you give informed consent for care, you are opinion or talk to family or friends. For most kinds of
saying that you understand the possible harms and decisions, there is plenty of time. Unless a situation is
benefits of a test or treatment. You sign an informed urgent, you should at least have the chance for some
consent form to give a health care provider permission private time to collect your thoughts.
to perform that test or treatment, usually right before
you get it. When you participate in shared decision Finally, once you have made your decision, it is time to
act. Ask: How do I carry out my decision? What do I need
making, you get to weigh all of the reasonable options
to do next? If you and your care provider don’t see eye to
ahead of time - including the option of doing nothing -
eye, now is the time to consider changing to a different
and decide what is most important to you. It’s not just
care provider who shares your goals and will help you
a form you sign, it is a process of sharing and gathering carry out your informed decision.
information, deliberating and carrying out your decision
in partnership with your care providers. Are There Resources to Help with Shared Decision
Making?
For some common decisions, Patient Decision Aids have

18 The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org 19
been developed to help with shared decision making.
A Decision Aid may be a booklet, DVD or website
Know Your Legal Rights
that guides you through each option, summarizes the
research about possible harms and benefits and helps This is a compilation of federal, New York, New
you clarify what is most important to you. Decision Aids Jersey, and Connecticut state laws on a variety of
have been shown to help people make decisions that are topics relevant to maternity care and patient rights. The
more consistent with their values and preferences, and information below is adapted from various texts and is
to reduce the chance of regretting a decision afterward. not intended to be legal advice.
Decision Aids for pregnancy and birth will be available
in early 2013 at www.expectingmore.org and lots THE AFFORDABLE CARE ACT
of information about options is available now at www. The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act
childbirthconnection.org. You can also browse links (PPACA) was signed into law in March 2010, and the
to decision aids for all types of health topics, including Supreme Court ruled to uphold this law in June 2012.
pregnancy and birth, from the Ottawa Health Research Below is a short summary of the benefits this will hold
Institute at http://decisionaid.ohri.ca/AZinvent.php for childbearing women and their families. For more
information visit: www.healthcare.gov/law.
.....................................................................................
Amy Romano, CNM, directs the Transforming Maternity The Patient’s Bill of Rights:
Care Partnership for Childbirth Connection and helps • P rovides coverage to people with pre-existing conditions.
develop decision support tools for the Expecting More It prohibits exclusions or higher charges based on
maternity shared decision making initiative. pregnancy and related complications, such as a previous
cesarean section.
• Protects your choice of providers, and prohibits the
Delayed Umbilical requirement of a referral for obstetric and gynecological care.
Cord Clamping Ends arbitrary withdrawals of insurance coverage.
• Restricts annual dollar limits and ends lifetime limits on
coverage.
Delaying the clamping of your baby’s umbilical cord • Removes insurance company barriers to emergency
for just two minutes is beneficial for newborns and services.
has been shown to: • Covers preventive care at no cost to you, including:
annual exams; STI counseling; contraception; prenatal
• Increase blood volume.
• Improve iron status in infants for up to six months care; folic acid supplements; breastfeeding counseling
after birth. and equipment; tobacco cessation services; and several
• Offer protection from complications such as brain screenings for mom and baby.
hemorrhage. • Guarantees your right to appeal.
• Contribute to improved outcomes for tiny preterm Important Gains for Maternity Care
infants.
• Reduce the prevalence of neonatal iron deficiency Maternal and newborn care is included in the PPACA
and anemia, both of which are associated with list of “essential health benefits” and therefore must be
impaired development. covered in healthcare policies beginning in 2014. There
are specific gains for childbearing women and families in
Early cord clamping: the following areas:
• Was developed without adequate medical evidence Medicaid
and may lead to damage caused by depleted plasma
• L
ow income, uninsured women will be eligible to receive
and oxygen in the blood.
insurance coverage and healthcare services before they
• Causes variations in blood volume of up to 40%,
become pregnant, allowing them to better plan pregnancies
which at any other time in life would have serious
consequences. and access prenatal care in a timely manner.
• Medicaid reimbursement of Certified Nurse Midwives
While delayed cord clamping is an evidence-based (CNMs) at 100% of the physician rate
recommendation, it is not standard practice in • Medicaid coverage of freestanding birth centers
all birth locations. Speak to your care provider in New Services
advance and at your birth if you would like to include • Maternal, Infant and Early Childhood Home Visiting
delayed cord clamping in your birth plan. Program for at-risk communities
• Pregnancy Assistance Fund for pregnant and parenting teens

20 The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org 21
NEW YORK HAS A BILL OF RIGHTS WITH At the time of printing, Connecticut does not have a
ADDITIONAL PROVISIONS FOR: universal Patient’s Bill of Rights. To file a complaint with
the Connecticut Department of Health regarding your
RESPECT AND NONDISCRIMINATION treatment in a Connecticut hospital, call (860) 509-7400.
• You have the right to receive considerate and respectful care
in a clean and safe environment free of unnecessary restraints.
MATERNITY INFORMATION ACT
• You have the right to receive treatment without A Maternity Information Act legally requires hospitals
discrimination as to race, color, religion, sex, national and birth centers to provide a leaflet for expectant parents
origin, disability, sexual orientation or source of payment. and the public. This should contain clear information
• You have the right to a health care professional who about the maternity care they provide, including both
does not abandon or neglect you when you are in need of definitions and rates of induction of labor, cesarean
immediate professional care, without making reasonable section, episiotomy and other obstetrical interventions;
arrangements for the continuation of such care. The the percentage of vaginal births after cesarean (VBAC)
health care professional must not abandon his/her practice and vaginal breech deliveries; and other information
without reasonable notice if this will seriously impair the including the percentage of deliveries by midwives and
delivery of professional care to patients or clients. the availability of rooming-in (keeping your baby with
you after birth).
INFORMED DECISION MAKING
At present only New York and Massachusetts have a
• You have the right to participate in decisions about your
health care and to understand what you are being told Maternity Information Act, though other states are
about your care and treatment. considering similar legislation.
www.health.state.ny.us/facilities/hospital/maternity/public_
• You have the right to receive all the information that you health_law_section_2803-j.htm
need to give informed consent for any proposed procedure
or treatment. This information shall include the possible If you have given birth within the last five years in New York
risks and benefits of the procedure or treatment. and you did not receive a document with this information
• You have the right to refuse treatment and to be told what you can make a complaint to the Civil Rights Bureau of the
effect this may have on your health. NY Attorney General’s office by calling: 212.416.8250
• You have the right to complain without fear of reprisals
about the care and services you are receiving and to INSURANCE COVERAGE
receive a response from the hospital. If you are not You may have the right to have your maternity care and
satisfied with the hospital’s response, you can complain birth paid for by your health insurance company, even
to the New York State Health Department by calling if it takes place with an out-of-network provider. Check
1-800-804-5447. with your state’s Department of Insurance to find out
www.health.state.ny.us/nysdoh/hospital/english1.htm if such provisions exist in your area. See the section on
NY State Patients’ Rights: insurance coverage for midwifery care on page 24 for
http://www.health.state.ny.us/nysdoh/hospital/english2.htm- more information.
regulations
CONSISTENT AND TIMELY TREATMENT
NEW JERSEY HAS A BILL OF RIGHTS WITH You have the right to be treated in a hospital if you arrive
ADDITIONAL PROVISIONS FOR: in active labor, unless the staff transfers you in a safe and
• Considerate and respectful care consistent with sound timely manner. You are to be cared for from the time of
nursing and medical practices. contractions through the delivery of the baby and the
• Receipt of information necessary to give informed placenta.
www.emtala.com
consent prior to the start of any procedure or treatment.
• The right to refuse treatment and to be informed of the MATERNITY LEAVE
medical consequences of such action.
• You may be entitled to up to 12 weeks (16 weeks in
• Expect reasonable continuity of care.
Connecticut) of unpaid, job-protected leave, with
• Treatment without discrimination as to race, age, religion,
continuation of group health insurance coverage, under
sex, national origin, or source of payment.
the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). This federal law
• If you are not satisfied with your treatment in a New
applies to both women and men who work in a public agency,
Jersey hospital, you can file a complaint with the New
school or a company with 50 or more employees within 75
Jersey Department of Health by calling 1-800-792-9770.
miles. The leave can be used for pregnancy complications as
NJ State Patients’ Rights:
http://www.state.nj.us/lps/ca/bme/statreg/patientrights.htm
well as for the birth and care of your newborn.

22 The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org 23
• You have the right to claim Disability Benefits for the period
you are unable to work due to pregnancy complications,
birth and the postpartum period (up to 26 weeks). Did you know that acupuncture can help to
• If you are unemployed or leave your job due to your relieve morning sickness?
pregnancy, you have the right to claim benefits according
to the same rules that apply to other claimants. It is illegal Did you know that a postpartum doula can
for you to be denied benefits because of your pregnancy. help you with newborn care in your home after
www.dol.gov/dol/topic/benefits-leave/fmla.htm
the baby arrives?
http://ctlawhelp.org/fmla-taking-time-off-from-work-family-
medical-leave
Did you know that chiropractic care can help
BREASTFEEDING to position the fetus before birth?
• In New York, New Jersey and Connecticut you have the
legal right to breastfeed your child in any location, public Did you know that many midwives provide
or private. annual well-woman care in addition to attending
• You also have the right to breastfeed your child at any births?
location in a federal building or on federal property, as
long as you and your child are otherwise authorized to
There are over 35 types of care providers
be present at the location.
that offer specialty services to women and
• You have the right to reasonable break time to pump their families during pregnancy, birth and the
breast milk for up to one year after the birth of your child.
postpartum period. Find out more about how
Your employer must provide a private place, other than a
each of these types of care can assist you
bathroom, for you to pump. (This federal law applies to
during this exciting time - and visit our Online
employers with more than 50 employees).
Provider Network to find these professionals in
http://breastfeedinglaw.com
your neighborhood.
New York has additional laws that:
• Establish the Breastfeeding Mothers’ Bill of Rights, www.choicesinchildbirth.org/network
outlining your rights while you are pregnant, immediately
following your baby’s birth and after you return home. Choices in Childbirth can help connect you
The Bill of Rights must be posted in a public place by with Primary Care Providers and a range of
every maternity care provider, hospital and birth center specialty service providers. From Acupuncture
and included in their Maternity Information Leaflet. It to Well-Woman Midwifery Care, Breastfeeding
is also available on the Health Department’s website at Support to Parenting Classes, the Online
http://www.health.ny.gov/publications/2028. Provider Network has you covered!
• Exclude breastfeeding from indecent exposure offenses.
• Give mothers the right to time and private space to pump
breast milk in their workplace until their child is three
years old. You may use either existing paid breaks or
uncompensated additional time. Your employer must
not discriminate against you for exercising this right.
• Allow an inmate of a correctional facility to be
accompanied by her breastfeeding child or by a child
born while she is committed, up to the age of one year, as
long as she is physically capable of caring for her child.
http://www.ncsl.org/issues-research/health/breastfeeding-
state-laws.aspx

International Breastfeeding Icon

This symbol indicates baby-friendly areas

and breastfeeding-friendly facilities, as well Dion, Macy
& Georgia
as increasing awareness of breastfeeding. with Poppy,
© Giuliana Casimirri hours old

24 The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org 25
Insurance Coverage for Cesarean Section Rates
at New York City Metro Hospitals
Midwifery Care
2000 2010 %Increase
There are often challenges associated with insurance
US 22.0 32.8 49.1
coverage for birth choices that deviate from the norm
of delivering at a hospital with an obstetrician. Below NY 24.7 34.6 40.1
are some tips for navigating the process of obtaining NJ 27.5 38.7 40.7
insurance coverage for midwifery care. CT 21.8 35.4 62.4

Questions for your Insurance Company New York

Manhattan 2000 2010 %Increase
• Does my insurance plan cover midwives? New York Downtown Hospital 11.1 22.3 100.9
• Is my midwife in the plan’s network? Beth Israel Hospital 24.0 24.6 2.5
• Does my employer fund the plan? (These plans are Bellevue Hospital 18.4 25.9 40.8
called “self-funded” and are exempt from various state Metropolitan Hospital 25.3 27.9 10.3
laws protecting access to midwifery care.) New York University Medical
Center/Tisch Hospital 25.6 28.3 10.5
Insurance Tips St. Luke’s Roosevelt Hospital 28.7 28.9 0.7
• Never accept the first answer that your insurance NY-Presbyterian Hospital/
The Allen Pavilion 22.9 31.5 37.6
company gives you as the final answer.
• Always appeal a denial or low payment. Mount Sinai Hospital 23.7 33.1 39.7
• Utilize your state’s Attorney General office for healthcare Harlem Hospital Center 23.0 33.4 45.2
consumer complaints. NY Hospital/Weill Cornell
• If your midwife is considered out-of-network according Medical Center 29.2 35.9 22.9
to your insurance plan, be sure to find out what the out- Lenox Hill Hospital 29.8 38.7 29.9
of-network deductible and co-insurance are. Columbia Presbyterian
Medical Center 28.3 40.2 42.0
Planning a Home Birth?
Queens 2000 2010 %Increase
You may be eligible for what some companies refer to as
Elmhurst Hospital Center 19.8 26.8 35.4
an “in-network exception.” This is when the plan grants
Forest Hills Hospital 34.5 30.0 -
coverage for your care at the preferred in-network benefit
Queens Center Hospital 18.5 30.8 66.5
level, essentially treating your midwife as in-network
New York Hospital/Medical
for your care. In some cases, a hospital-based midwifery
practice can be eligible for this type of authorization as well. Center of Queens 25.3 32.8 29.6
St. John’s Episcopal Hospital
In New York State: South Shore 25.2 35.6 41.3
Long Island Jewish Med Center 27.4 38.6 40.9
• Insurance plans are required to offer a midwife in their Jamaica Hospital Med Center 28.1 39.3 39.9
network. Flushing Hospital Med Center 30.7 40.8 32.9
• When an insurance plan doesn’t offer out-of-network
benefits, the plan must grant an “in-network exception” Brooklyn 2000 2010 %Increase
to cover your midwife’s care if no comparable option Maimonides Medical Center 14.9 22.6 51.7
exists. Kings County Hospital 21.2 25.5 20.3
• For home birth midwives, this usually ensures that
Woodhull Medical & Mental
you will be granted the exception for your care and
Health Center 24.2 28.1 16.1
homebirth.
Brookdale University Hospital
.................................................................................
Haya Brant is a longtime doula turned billing expert. She Medical Center 24.1 30.9 28.2
works hard to maximize reimbursements for midwives Wyckoff Heights Hospital 24.2 31.8 31.4
and their clients every day. Coney Island Hospital 19.7 33.7 71.1
NY Methodist Hospital 28.5 35.4 24.2

26 The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org 27
Lutheran Medical Center 24.6 36.7 49.2 St. Charles Hospital 30.5 48.2 58.0
Long Island College Hospital 31.1 39.1 25.7 St. Catherine of Siena Hospital 30.4 50.2 65.1
Brooklyn Hospital Center 29.6 44.7 51.0 Good Samaritan Hospital 32.7 50.8 55.4
University Hospital of Brooklyn 26.4 46.5 76.1
New Jersey
Bronx 2000 2010 % Increase Bergen County 2000 2010 % Increase
Jacobi Hospital 14.1 24.0 70.2 Englewood Hospital and
North Central Bronx Hospital 17.4 25.4 46.0 Medical Center 25.6 33.1 29.3
St. Barnabas Hospital 20.1 28.4 41.3 Holy Name Hospital 26.0 40.2 54.6
Lincoln Medical and Mental The Valley Hospital 32.8 47.2 43.9
Health Center 22.6 29.1 28.8 Hackensack University
Bronx Lebanon Hospital 23.8 34.6 45.4 Medical Center 36.6 49.5 35.2
Montefiore Medical Center 21.0 34.6 64.8
Montefiore North Division - 37.1 - Essex County 2000 2010 % Increase
University of Medicine & Dentistry
Staten Island 2000 2010 % Increase of New Jersey 21.6 37.2 72.2
Staten Island University Hospital 22.3 22.1 - Clara Maass Medical Center 29.2 39.6 35.6
Richmond University Newark Beth Israel Med Center 26.6 39.7 49.2
Medical Center 34.7 40.8 17.6 Mountainside Hospital 31.9 44.2 38.6
Saint Barnabas Med Center 34.0 45.6 34.1
Westchester County 2000 2010 % Increase
Phelps Mem. Hosp.Assn. 18.9 26.9 42.3 Hudson County 2000 2010 % Increase
Hudson Valley Hospital Center 26.7 29.9 12.0 Palisades Medical Center 25.3 33.8 33.6
Sound Shore Medical Center Hoboken University Med Center 30.1 42.8 42.2
of Westchester 30.1 41.0 36.2 Jersey City Med Center 31.6 44.2 39.9
Westchester County Christ Hospital 33.1 48.9 47.7
Medical Center 42.9 41.7 - Meadowlands Hospital Med Center 35.7 53.4 49.6
Northern Westchester Hospital 28.1 43.5 54.8
White Plains Hospital Center 31.5 43.6 38.4 Connecticut
St. John’s Riverside Hospital 22.4 50.2 124.1 Fairfield County 2000 2009 % Increase
Lawrence Hospital 34.4 53.6 55.8 St. Vincent’s Medical Center 17.0 15.2 -
Danbury Hospital 21.2 31.7 49.5
Rockland County 2000 2010 % Increase Norwalk Hospital 26.9 35.7 32.7
Good Samaritan Hospital of Suffern - 20.2 - Greenwich Hospital 25.4 36.7 44.5
Nyack Hospital - 33.1 - Bridgeport Hospital 26.5 42.2 59.2
Stamford Hospital 26.2 44.6 70.2
Long Island: Nassau 2000 2010 % Increase
Nassau University Medical Center 23.7 27.4 15.6 Litchfield County 2000 2009 % Increase
North Shore University Hospital 30.2 41.6 37.7 New Milford Hospital 27.6 31.7 14.9
Winthrop-University Hospital 27.8 43.1 55.0 Sharon Hospital 23.5 33.3 29.0
Plainview Hospital - 44.9 - Charlotte Hungerford Hospital 24.1 34.1 41.5
South Nassau Communities
Hospital 30.3 46.0 51.8 New Haven County 2000 2009 % Increase
Mercy Medical Center 31.8 49.8 56.6 Saint Mary’s Hospital 11.1 27.2 145.0
Hospital of Saint Raphael 15.3 32.4 111.8
Long Island: Suffolk 2000 2010 % Increase Griffin Hospital 23.2 35.1 51.3
Southampton Hospital 31.3 33.6 7.3 MidState Medical Center 20.4 36.1 77.0
University Hospital 33.8 35.7 5.6 Waterbury Hospital 19.5 38.1 95.4
Southside Hospital 28.8 43.5 51.0 Yale-New Haven Hospital 21.9 39.1 78.5
Huntington Hospital 29.4 43.8 49.0 Milford Hospital 23.5 43.3 84.3
Peconic Bay Medical Center 29.8 46.3 55.4

28 The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org 29
Low Cost Options for Care
Ekua Ansah-Samuels

For many families, the news of having a baby comes

with a mix of excitement, anticipation and angst. These
emotions, especially for first-time parents, are related
to not knowing what to expect and figuring out what
one must do to ensure healthy outcomes for mom and
baby. One fact remains constant: it is always beneficial
to be well informed about the range of options available.
Cost effectiveness must be evaluated alongside parents’
preferences for a safe and fulfilling birth experience.

Prenatal and birthing costs depend on a variety of factors.

First, is mom insured? What is covered? Most private
insurance companies cover prenatal care and birth at
an average of 87%. Out-of-pocket costs typically include
co-pays for visits, deductibles and non-routine labs or
tests. Provider care is sometimes distinct from facility
charges depending on where mom delivers. For hospital
births, insurance will pay the hospital for the birth and
the hospital stay, but there may be a deductible. Birthing
centers both within or separate from hospitals are
generally cheaper in direct costs. Freestanding centers
will have a list of participating insurance plans. Home
births and midwives might be covered by private and
public insurance. The out-of-pocket costs also depend
on the plan, and whether there are extras such as rental
of water-birth equipment.

In New York State, almost all pregnant women are

eligible for coverage through Medicaid’s Prenatal Care
Assistance program (PCAP) if they do not have private
insurance. This covers women’s perinatal care until two
months postpartum. It is recommended that registration
for PCAP coverage is completed with a PCAP provider.
This route offers mom what is called presumptive
eligibility, so she doesn’t have to wait the normal 45
days for her application to be processed before receiving
prenatal services. Once approved, she has the freedom to
stay with that provider or go to another of her choosing.
The Growing Healthy in New York Hotline at 1-800-522-
5006 provides moms-to-be with a list of PCAP providers
based on zip code. Pregnant women are counted as two
for family size in determining income eligibility and
pregnant women do not need to disclose immigration
Sarah & status for PCAP as they do for regular Medicaid.
Anthony,
laboring Doula care is the perfect supplement to any birthing
experience, but is almost always an out-of-pocket
expense. Some private insurance carriers will pay a full or
© Heather White partial reimbursement if mom files a claim after she pays

30 The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org 31
for services herself, but the process can be lengthy and Baby College at Harlem Children’s Zone
tedious. Fortunately, for expectant moms who cannot 212.665.9832
afford the cost of this beneficial service, some not-for- www.hcz.org
profit organizations offer well trained and experienced The Bronx Doula Group
doulas free of charge or at low cost. Northern Manhattan www.bronxdoulas.com
Perinatal Partnership (NMPP) has been able to offer
doula service to Central Harlem women through funding Bronx Health Link/Perinatal Information Network
718.590.2648
by City Council Member Inez Dickens. NMPP is also
www.bronxhealthlink.org/about/pin.htm
happy to assist mothers who live in other parts of the
city to obtain free and low cost doula care through their Brooklyn Perinatal Network
many partners, in addition to a range of other perinatal 718.643.8258
case management and health education services. For www.bpnetwork.org
more volunteer or low cost doula services, please see
The Brooklyn Young Mothers’ Collective
the listings in the following low cost resource section. 718.596.7013
Most perinatal organizations, public health centers, www.bymcinc.org
clinics, and hospitals that serve expectant mothers offer
free health education courses on topics such as family By My Side Birth Support Program @ Healthy
Start Brooklyn
planning, parenting, breastfeeding and more.
646.253.5866
Email: [email protected]
The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for
Women, Infants and Children (WIC) offers nutrition Caribbean Women’s Health Association
education, breastfeeding support, and nutritious foods 718.826.2942
to low-income pregnant, breastfeeding or postpartum www.cwha.org
women with infants and children up to age five, to Community Cradle
promote and support good health. See www.health. 518.426.1153
ny.gov/prevention/nutrition/wic/ for income guidelines www.communitycradle.org
and an easy to use pre-screening tool to assess eligibility
Community Health Advocates
for the program. The Growing Healthy in New York
888.614.5400
Hotline at 1-800-522-5006 will also give moms their
www.communityhealthadvocates.org
local WIC site.
Connecticut Perinatal Association
The financial aspects of what it means to carry and www.connperinatal.org
birth a healthy child are becoming more of an issue to
The Doula Project
be considered. Now more than ever it is prudent to plan www.doulaproject.org
pregnancies, from maintaining overall wellness before
conception to considering the costs of various prenatal Hudson Perinatal Consortium
and birthing options. Fortunately for expectant families, 201.876.8900
www.hudsonperinatal.org
New York City has a range of resources available to fill
gaps in meeting these costs. It just takes a little research HPC Community Doulas
and some assistance from healthy birth advocates! 201.876.8900 x241
..................................................................................... www.hpcdoulas.com
Ekua Ansah-Samuels is a family health educator,
lactation counselor, doula, and infant massage instructor. Inwood House
212.861.4400
She has over 10 years of experience working with a
www.inwoodhouse.com
range of private providers and non- profit organizations
serving youth, pregnant and parenting women, and Lower Hudson Valley Perinatal Network
families. www.lhvpn.net
914.493.6435
Resources
Medicaid
Ancient Song Doula Services NY: 877.472.8411 or 311
347.789.6529 www.health.ny.gov/health_care/medicaid/
www.ancientsongdoulaservices.com

32 The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org 33
Additional Resourses (continued)
NJ: 800.356.1561
www.state.nj.us/humanservices/dmahs/clients/medicaid/
pregnant/index.html
Protecting Your Pregnancy
CT: 800.842.1508
www.ct.gov/dss/cwp/view.asp?a=2353&q=490478
from Harmful Toxins
Mt. Sinai Hospital Adolescent Health Center Living an eco-conscious, healthy lifestyle may be
212.423.2900 the best thing you can do to prepare your body for
www.mountsinai.org/patient-care/service-areas/ having children. This goes for the gentlemen too -
adolescent-health/areas-of-care/adolescent-health-center toxins are known to affect the health and mobility of
Nassau County Maternal and Child Health Services sperm! Here are 6 tips to protect you and your
516.227.9456 baby from potentially harmful toxins during
www.nassaucountyny.gov your pregnancy:
1. Avoid produce with pesticides.
Northern Manhattan Perinatal Partnership, Inc. According to the Environmental Working Group,
212.665.2600 you can lower your pesticide exposure by 90
sisterlink.com percent simply by avoiding the most contaminated
The Nurse-Family Partnership conventionally grown produce, like peaches,
646.672.2880 strawberries, and lettuce.
www.nyc.gov/html/doh/html/ms/ms-nfp.shtml 2. Ease up on animal fats.
When you buy meat, poultry, or dairy, look for
Planned Parenthood low fat options. Fatty animal products contain the
For Appointments at all NYC Metro clinics highest levels of toxins like DDT and PCBs because
212.965.7000 or 800.230.PLAN these chemicals are stored in fat and increase in
www.ppnyc.org concentration higher up the food chain. You can
also do your body a favor by reducing how much
Queens Comprehensive Perinatal Council meat you eat. Even one vegetarian meal a week can
718.206.4357 make a big difference.
www.qcpc.org 3. Get smart about plastics.
Queens Health Coalition Some plastics contain chemicals suspected
718.762.0346 of causing harm - especially to developing
www.qhcnyc.org fetuses. Avoid those numbered 1, 3, 6, or 7. Stop
microwaving in plastic and ban the can! Canned
Red Hook Initiative foods and beverages are lined with a plastic resin
718.858.6782 that contains bisphenol-A, a hormone-disrupting
www.rhicenter.org chemical.
4. Wet your whistle with water.
Suffolk Perinatal Coalition Skip the single-use bottled water, which can
631.475.5400 be contaminated by the plastic bottle. Make an
www.scpc.net
investment in a water filter and reusable stainless
text4baby steel water bottles.
Text BABY to 511411 to receive free weekly info texts 5. Use fewer personal care products.
throughout your pregnancy and baby’s first year. Many personal care products contain chemicals
Envia BEBE al 511411 para Espanol. that disrupt hormones your baby will rely on for
www.text4baby.org proper development. The best thing for you and
baby is to reduce how much you use and to choose
What to Expect Foundation the safest products.
212.712.9764 6. Clean without toxic chemicals.
www.whattoexpect.org Basic ingredients like baking soda and vinegar can
tackle most household chores. Avoid products that
Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Program
say poison, warning or danger and products with
NY: 800.522.5006
unidentified “fragrance.”
www.health.ny.gov/prevention/nutrition/wic/
NJ: 866.446.5942 ....................................................................................
www.nj.gov/health/fhs/wic/index.shtml Thanks to Healthy Child Healthy World for
CT: 800.741.2142 providing these tips. Find more information on
http://www.ct.gov/dph/cwp/view.asp?a=3137&q=395460 protecting your children from harmful substances at
&dphNav_GID=1862&dphPNavCtr=|#48077 www.healthychild.org.

34 The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org 35
Eating for Two Folate/folic acid (800 mcg) - prevents neural
tube defects. It is naturally occurring in leafy greens,
Rachelle LaCroix Mallik, RD mushrooms, cruciferous vegetables like cauliflower
and orange juice.
Congratulations, you’re pregnant! Before you nurture
your baby, you need to nurture your body. But eating for Calcium (1000 mg/1300 mg pregnant teens) –
two (or more) doesn’t mean loading your plate with twice crucial for cell function, nerve transmission and a
as much food. To get you started on healthy eating, here regular heartbeat. It is also needed for your baby’s
are some basic nutrition principles during pregnancy. teeth and bone development. Dairy products such as
1. Eating for two does not mean doubling your daily milk and yogurt are high in calcium, as are collards,
broccoli and black-eyed peas.
calorie intake. In fact, your caloric needs only
increase by about 300-400 per day, and only during Vitamin D (600 IU) - helps your body use and absorb
the second and third trimester. calcium, which aids in bone development. Vitamin D
2. Optimal weight gain depends on your pre-pregnancy is produced in the body through sun exposure. Dietary
weight. Women in the healthy BMI range (18-24) sources include mushrooms, eggs, liver, sardines and
should gain around 25-35lbs for one baby. fortified milk.
3. Typical weight gain is about 1lb in the first trimester,
and 1lb per week in the second and third trimesters. Vitamin C (85 mg) – necessary for tissue growth and
Don’t worry if you gain slightly more or less - everyone repair and collagen synthesis. Citrus fruits as well as bell
is different. Talk to your care provider about what’s peppers, strawberries and tomatoes provide vitamin C.
right for you. Pregnancy Nutrition Powerhouses
4. Certain nutrient needs increase, including protein,
iron, calcium and folate. Take a prenatal vitamin as Each of these foods provides two or more of the nutrients
prescribed by your healthcare provider and see the listed above:
recommendations below for nutritious and tasty Quinoa - a terrific protein option for vegetarians and
foods to include in your diet. vegans, quinoa is a quick-cooking grain that provides all
5. Avoid alcohol and minimize caffeine intake to less
of the essential amino acids, as well as folate. Enjoy cold
than 300 mg per day. 8-oz of brewed coffee has about with chopped veggies like bell pepper and cucumbers.
100 mg caffeine and 8-oz of brewed tea has 40-60 mg.
Kidney beans - beans of any variety offer folate in
Nutrients for Building a Baby addition to protein and filling fiber. Use them as the
Eating a colorful variety of foods will help supply the base for soup and chili or as a side dish with brown rice.
nutrients you need to support you and your growing Experiment with lentils too!
baby. The best choices are fresh vegetables and fruit,
Kale - high in iron, folate, and vitamin C, this versatile
lean protein, low-fat dairy, whole grains and healthy
leafy green tastes great chopped raw in a salad, sautéed
fats. A healthy diet can also alleviate some pregnancy
with garlic and olive oil, or baked into chips.
side effects like heartburn, constipation and swollen feet.
Pumpkin seeds - along with protein and iron, the
Remember that food that is healthy for you during
popular Mexican pepita is high in copper, which works
pregnancy is just as healthy when you’re not. Focusing
with iron to form red blood cells. Sprinkle toasted
on the foods you can eat rather than what to avoid can
pumpkin seeds into oatmeal or into homemade trail mix.
make your pregnancy more enjoyable. These nutrients
(with daily requirements) are particularly important Sardines - canned with their bones, sardines provide
during pregnancy: vitamin D and calcium as well as omega-3 fatty acid,
which is crucial for your baby’s development. Stir
Protein (70 g) - promotes growth. Protein is the
into marinara and spoon over whole grain pasta for a
building block of new cells, enzymes and hormones.
nutritious meal without a lot of prep.
Healthy choices include lean beef, poultry, fish, beans,
lentils and nuts. Almond butter - rich in protein, healthy unsaturated
fat, and calcium. Spread onto a sliced apple for a
Iron (27 mg) - helps prevent anemia. Blood volume
satisfying snack.
increases significantly during pregnancy, so extra iron
is needed for red blood cells. Iron is found in egg yolks, Blackberries - packed with vitamin C and a
meat, nuts and seeds, dark leafy greens and dried fruit. whopping 8 grams of fiber per cup, which encourages

36 The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org 37
normal bowel movements. Add to your morning cereal
or yogurt.
Is Home Birth for You?
Yogurt (plain, nonfat) - the only sugar in plain
Choosing the appropriate place to birth your child
yogurt is lactose, which naturally occurs in milk. Greek
is an important maternity care decision. In the United
and Skyr yogurts are super thick, creamy and provide
States the vast majority of women choose to birth in a
up to 20 grams of protein in one cup.
hospital setting. Most Americans consider the hospital
Foods to Avoid Safer Alternatives to be the safest place to birth. Many believe that it is the
Unpasteurized/raw milk, Pasteurized & processed only legal place to birth. This is not true. For many wom-
cheese and juices. cheeses (American, cheddar, en, birthing at home or at a birth center with a qualified
cottage cheese, parmesan,
ricotta) and experienced care provider is a safe and legal option.
Raw and undercooked eggs, fish Cooked sushi (eel, shrimp) or
and meat (that includes sushi!) vegetable rolls; firmly cooked
eggs; medium-well steak or
well-done hamburger I’m Interested in Home Birth and...
Deli and cured meats; pates & Freshly roasted turkey,
meat spreads chicken or roast beef • I am healthy and have had a healthy pregnancy.
• I am considered low-risk by my health care provider.
• I want to labor, birth and meet my baby in a safe and
High mercury fish (shark, sword- Chunk light tuna; catfish,
fish, king mackerel, tilefish) salmon or trout; small fish like familiar environment.
See http://www.nrdc.org/ anchovies & sardines • I am concerned about the discomfort of the trip to the
health/effects/mercury/wallet-
card.pdf for more details. hospital.
• I want to avoid the risks of the routine interventions
Morning Sickness used in hospitals.
• I want to avoid an unnecessary cesarean section.
Tips to handle pregnancy-related nausea and vomiting
• I want to have access to my partner, family and
that can occur any time of day!
support people at all times during labor, birth and the
• Eat small, frequent meals and snacks to prevent postpartum period.
overeating or an empty stomach.
• I want to be with my baby continuously from the
• Avoid nausea triggers (certain foods and/or smells). moment s/he arrives in the world.
• Drink enough fluids - sip water throughout the day. • I believe pregnancy and birth are normal, natural
• Get plenty of rest and get up slowly in the morning. functions and not an illness to be medically treated.
• Keep a stash of crackers to nibble on if you start to feel • I believe in my body’s ability to give birth to the baby I
queasy. have conceived, grown and protected.
• Try sipping ginger or peppermint tea, or sucking on a
hard candy. Many countries support offering women the option
............................................................................................ of home birth. The Royal College of Obstetricians and
Rachelle LaCroix Mallik is a Registered Dietician and holds Gynecologists of Britain states, “There is ample evidence
a Master’s Degree in Food Studies. She is an Associate
showing that laboring at home increases a woman’s
at B Nutritious, a private nutrition counseling practice in
likelihood of a birth that is both satisfying and safe, with
Manhattan.
implications for her health and that of her baby.”

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists

stated in its opinion paper from February 2011 that,
"Although the Committee on Obstetric Practice believes
that hospitals and birthing centers are the safest setting
for birth, it respects the right of a woman to make a
medically informed decision about delivery."
......................................................................................
To learn more and to find resources to help you decide
whether home birth may be right for you, please visit
Kristy & www.choicesinchildbirth.org.
© Alice Garik Darryl

38 The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org 39
Home Birth Consensus Summit Unhurrying the
The Home Birth Consensus Summit was held October
2011 in Warrenton, VA to discuss the status of home
Moment of Birth
birth within the greater context of maternity care Mary Esther Malloy, MA
in the United States. The Summit brought together
stakeholders from parents to midwives, obstetricians The moment a child is born, the mother is also born. She
to insurance companies and more. Elan McAllister never existed before. The woman existed, but the mother,
from Choices in Childbirth took part as a consumer never. The mother is something absolutely new.
advocacy representative. We continue to be involved as —Osho
the discussion surrounding home birth in the US moves
forward. I am the mother of two children and am now
The goal of the summit was to establish what the whole expecting my third. Both my sons were born into the
system can do to support those who choose home birth, hands of midwives and passed directly to me. I will
and to make home birth the safest and most positive never forget the crazy, slippery, stunning moments
experience for everyone involved. Its concluding in which I first held them. At the time, I couldn’t have
statements found common ground across several areas. imagined wanting to meet my children in any other way.
And while I fully honor the victory and beauty of the
1. We uphold the autonomy of all childbearing women. quick delivery of my babies onto my chest, I have been
All childbearing women, in all maternity care settings, witnessing something lately as a doula that has given me
should receive respectful, woman-centered care. pause. And literally it is a pause, a birth pause, if you will.
2. We believe that collaboration within an integrated I have been deeply affected by a simple shift that allows a
maternity care system is essential for optimal mother- baby and its mother to find their own way to each other,
baby outcomes. unhurried, through the moment of birth.
3. We are committed to an equitable maternity care
system without disparities in access, delivery of care, I first observed this pause at a home birth with first-time
or outcomes. parents, Laura and Neil. Laura was pushing on all fours,
4. It is our goal that all health professionals who provide kneeling in the warmth of a brilliant, winter sunlight.
maternity care in home and birth center settings have Her midwife crouched behind her. I knelt in front of
a license that is based on national certification that her, her arms wrapped around my thighs. After catching
includes defined competencies and standards for the baby, the midwife did not hand the baby directly to
education and practice. Laura. Instead she passed the baby through Laura’s legs
5. We believe that increased participation by consumers and laid her on pads covering the floor. Laura’s eyes were
in multi-stakeholder initiatives is essential to improv- closed and her head lowered as her whole body seemed
ing maternity care, including the development of high to sigh from the effort she’d just made to birth her baby.
quality home birth services within an integrated ma- For an impossibly long breath, she hung her head even
ternity care system. lower in a gesture that spoke to a deep exhaustion.
6. We recognize that effective communication and
collaboration across all disciplines caring for mothers Laura opened her eyes and quietly sat back on her heels.
and babies are essential for optimal outcomes across She and Neil stared down at their daughter, mesmerized,
all settings. taking in this new being. Laura reached out to touch her
7. We are committed to improving the current medical newly born child. She felt her baby’s hands and then
liability system, which fails to justly serve society, slowly touched her legs and arms. Carefully, but with a
families, and health care providers. clear confidence and readiness, she brought her daughter
8. We envision a compulsory process for the collection up to her chest, embracing her for the first time.
of patient (individual) level data on key process and
outcome measures in all birth settings. Within the space of these impossibly slow, sweet
9. We recognize and affirm the value of physiologic moments that added up to barely a minute or two,
birth for women, babies, families and society and the Laura and Neil arrived on the other side of birth in what
value of appropriate interventions based on the best appeared to me to be a very special way; they arrived,
available evidence to achieve optimal outcomes for in their own time, as parents. They claimed their child.
mothers and babies.
..................................................................................... What I saw at Laura’s birth made sense to me in light
For more information and the full consensus state- of midwife Karen Strange’s description of what she calls
ments, please visit www.homebirthsummit.org. “the sequence of birth,” a sort of blueprint for what
happens when we do not disturb birth. It consists of

40 The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org 41
Connection – mother and baby connected in pregnancy; between states and passing through as slowly as we
Rupture – the moment of separation at birth; Rest – need. Exhale and then inhale.
the pause as the baby lies before its mother, the mother Adapted from “Waiting to Inhale: How to Unhurry
seeing and touching her baby for the first time; and Repair the Moment of Birth,” Journal of Perinatal Education,
– the trip the baby makes to the breast, thus completing Winter 2011, Vol 20, No 1.
the sequence. The idea of Rest – an unhurried moment as ......................................................................................
a baby is born – struck me as something to be explored. Mary Esther Malloy is a doula, Bradley childbirth
educator, and now a mother of three. She received her
The Baby undergraduate degree from Oberlin College in Ohio and
Laura’s midwife, Valeriana Pasqua-Masback, describes has a Master’s Degree in Anthropology from New York
many benefits for a baby born in this way. She points University. For Mary Esther’s first meeting of her third
out that the baby will stretch out its arms with the Moro child, visit www.thebirthpause.com.
reflex, which in turn expands its lungs for those first
few breaths. Additionally, she notes, this pause is an
important time for the placental transfusion, the return Supporting Initiation
of the volume of blood that has backed up into the cord
and placenta with the squeeze through the birth canal, a
of Breastfeeding
function that also aids in the transition to lung breathing.
Do your care provider and birth site follow the Ameri-
can Academy of Pediatrics’ Recommendations on
The Mother
Breastfeeding?
As a witness to the birth process and a mother myself,
the words and phrases that I feel describe most mothers’
“Healthy infants should be placed and remain in
first moments after giving birth include a stunned kind of
direct skin-to-skin contact with their mothers im-
relief, bewilderment, and shock. Of course, the mother is
mediately after delivery until the first feeding is
eager to see her baby at long last, but she is still very right accomplished.”
brain. Then, like a cruise ship changing course, coming
now into port, her attention shifts. There is a coming back, • Healthy babies can latch on to the breast without
a return, a shifting of focus to this new child who is also specific assistance within the first hour. Infants af-
experiencing its own coming into port. This changing of fected by maternal medications may require assis-
course will happen at more of a clip for some women than tance.
for others. But it is with this turn of attention to the baby
that the high begins to swell, and it will continue to swell • Dry the infant, assign Apgar scores, and perform
over hours, days and months, until one day it is the tidal physical assessment while the infant is with the
wave of love that we have for our children. mother.

When a baby is delivered directly to a woman’s chest, • The mother is an optimal heat source for the infant.
many women are somewhat overwhelmed when the
moment they finish the work of birth and the moment • Delay weighing, measuring, bathing, needle-sticks,
they take in their baby are one and the same. When a and eye prophylaxis until after the first feeding is
baby is guided down at birth, and mother and baby pause, completed.
a woman will have a moment for the stunned relief of
delivering her baby. This part of the birth process will be • Except under unusual circumstances, the newborn
accorded its own respect. A woman will exhale from the infant should remain with the mother throughout
work of birth before she begins to inhale the presence of the recovery period.
her child and her new identity as a mother.
While these are evidence-based recommendations,
As I think about birthing this new child on its way to they are not standard practice in all birth locations.
me, I hope to remind myself of something very simple Speak to your care provider in advance and at your
birth if you would like to include these AAP recom-
at the time of birth: Exhale and then inhale. Exhale the
mendations on breastfeeding in your birth plan.
magnitude of the experience of birth and then inhale
the unfolding moments in which I am receiving this
child. Life is not one big inhale, one big gulping in of
experience. It is the symmetry of exhale and inhale. Just connect with us
as we breathe this rhythm through our labors, present to www.choicesinchildbirth.org
one contraction at a time, we can also breathe through www.facebook.com/ChoicesinChildbirth
our transition to motherhood, finding that moment www.twitter.com/HealthyBirth

42 The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org 43
The Mother-Friendly Autonomy
Every woman should have the opportunity to:
Childbirth Initiative • Have a healthy and joyous birth experience for herself
and her family, regardless of her age or circumstances;
The Mother-Friendly Childbirth Initiative is the • Give birth as she wishes in an environment in which
foundation of our work at Choices in Childbirth, and she feels nurtured and secure, and her emotional well-
is the core philosophy of the care providers listed in being, privacy, and personal preferences are respected;
our Provider Network on the following pages. • Have access to the full range of options for pregnancy,
birth, and nurturing her baby, and to accurate information
The First Consensus Initiative of the on all available birthing sites, caregivers, and practices;
• Receive accurate and up-to-date information about
Coalition for Improving Maternity the benefits and risks of all procedures, drugs, and
Services Principles tests suggested for use during pregnancy, birth, and
the postpartum period, with the rights to informed
The principles outlined below are an excerpt from the consent and informed refusal;
Mother~Friendly Childbirth Initiative.
• Receive support for making informed choices about
To read the full text of this document, please visit the
what is best for her and her baby based on her indi-
Coalition for Improving Maternity Services website at
vidual values and beliefs.
www.motherfriendly.org.
Do No Harm
We Believe the Philosophical Cornerstones of • Interventions should not be applied routinely during
Mother-Friendly Care to be as Follows: pregnancy, birth, or the postpartum period. Many
standard medical tests, procedures, technologies, and
Normalcy of the Birthing Process drugs carry risks to both mother and baby, and should
• Birth is a normal, natural, and healthy process. be avoided in the absence of specific scientific indica-
• Women and babies have the inherent wisdom tions for their use.
necessary for birth. • If complications arise during pregnancy, birth, or the
• Babies are aware, sensitive human beings at the time of postpartum period, medical treatments should be ev-
birth, and should be acknowledged and treated as such. idence-based.
• Breastfeeding provides the optimum nourishment for Responsibility
newborns and infants.
• Birth can safely take place in hospitals, birth centers, • Each caregiver is responsible for the quality of care she
or he provides.
and homes.
• The midwifery model of care, which supports and • Maternity care practice should be based not on the
needs of the caregiver or provider, but solely on the
protects the normal birth process, is the most
needs of the mother and child.
appropriate for the majority of women during
• Each hospital and birth center is responsible for the
pregnancy and birth.
periodic review and evaluation, according to current
Empowerment scientific evidence, of the effectiveness, risks, and rates
• A woman’s confidence and ability to give birth and to of use of its medical procedures for mothers and babies.
care for her baby are enhanced or diminished by every • Society, through both its government and the public
person who gives her care, and by the environment in health establishment, is responsible for ensuring ac-
which she gives birth. cess to maternity services for all women, and for moni-
• A mother and baby are distinct yet interdependent toring the quality of those services.
during pregnancy, birth, and infancy. Their intercon- • Individuals are ultimately responsible for making in-
nected–ness is vital and must be respected. formed choices about the health care they and their
• Pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period are babies receive.
milestone events in the continuum of life. These © 1996 by The Coalition for Improving Maternity Services
experiences profoundly affect women, babies, fathers, (CIMS).
and families, and have important and long-lasting .....................................................................................
effects on society. To learn more about the Coalition for Improving Maternity
Services and to read their excellent report, Evidence for
the Ten Steps of Mother-Friendly Care, visit:
www.MotherFriendly.org

44 The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org 45
Provider Listings
Using the principles of the MFCI listed
on page 42 as its foundation, Choices in Acupuncture............................................................... 46
Childbirth has organized a local Network Birth Center, Birth/Maternity Photography...............47
of Mother-Friendly Providers. The goal Bodywork, Abdominal Massage,
of this network is to connect you with
providers who share a similar philosophy Craniosacral Therapy.................................................47
of birth and who will respect and support Massage Therapy....................................................... 48
you and your family during pregnancy, Physical Therapy, Reiki............................................. 49
birth and postpartum. Visit the Guide to a
Breastfeeding Support................................................ 49
Healthy Birth Online Provider Network to
view the full profiles of the providers listed Childbirth Education................................................... 51
here, and to search our national database Chiropractic Care.........................................................54
of care providers. Doula Support, Labor Support...................................55
Postpartum Support.................................................. 58
www.ChoicesInChildbirth.org/network
First Aid.......................................................................59
There is a wide spectrum of types of care Fitness, Specialty Services, Yoga............................... 60
providers and styles of care to choose Herbalism, Homeopathy.............................................61
from. We recommend that you ask
potential providers questions about their Mental Health, Midwifery Care.................................. 62
philosophy of birth so that you can find the Natural Fertility Counseling....................................... 63
best match for you. Sample “Questions to Nutrition..................................................................... 64
Ask Your Care Provider” can be found on
Obstetric Care..............................................................65
page 10.
Parenting Support, Baby Care Classes,
General Parenting Support....................................... 66
LGBTQ Reproduction and Parenting Support
Pediatric care...............................................................67
Prenatal/Postpartum Counseling
Well-Woman Gynecological Care.............................. 68

Disclaimer:
The Guide to a Healthy Birth includes a compilation of
providers who have both submitted their information
for inclusion in this Guide edition and indicated that
they provide services related to pregnancy. Choices
in Childbirth does not recommend nor endorse the
competence or expertise of anyone listed and shall
not be responsible, directly or indirectly, for any
damages or loss caused or alleged to be caused by
or in connection with the use of or reliance on any
provider in this Guide.

Michelle,
© Michelle Ingkavet forearm
stand

46 The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org 47
Acupuncture (continued)

Mother-Friendly Mia Hatgis L.Ac.

Areas Served: Mn, Bk
acumamamia.com
917.428.6909
Providers
Provider Listings Mona Fafarman, MS, L.Ac. [email protected]
Acupuncture & Herbal 212.614.6716
Key: Areas Served Medicine
Areas Served: Mn
NY NJ

Mn, Qn, Bk, Bx, Si = NYC Ex = Essex Michelle LaDue L.Ac., moonfloweracupuncture.com
Mn = Manhattan Bg = Bergen Doula 718.415.1583
Qn = Queens Hd = Hudson Moonflower Acupuncture
Bk = Brooklyn Ex, Bg, Hd = NJ Areas Served: NYC
Bx = Bronx
Si = Staten Island Sarah Rivkin slopeacupuncture.com
CT
Park Slope Acupuncture 718.309.0432
Ns = Nassau
Ff = Fairfield & Chinese Herbs
Sf = Suffolk Lf = Litchfield Areas Served: Bk
Wc = Westchester Nh = New Haven
Rk = Rockland Ff, Lf, Nh = CT Sarah Sajdak, MS, L.Ac sarahsajdak.com
Areas Served: Mn 917.496.5481
Acupuncture
Birth Center
Helene Kostre parkslopeacupuncture.com
Acupuncture & Healing 718.965.9458 Fran Schwartz brooklynbirthingcenter.com
Arts of Park Slope Brooklyn Birthing 718.376.6655
Areas Served: Bk Center
Areas Served: Bk
Juliette Aiyana, L.Ac. HealthyStuffU.com
Aiyana Acupuncture & 212.894.0767 Birth/ Maternity Photography
Chinese Herbs
Areas Served: Entire Alice Garik Photography alicegarik.com
Tri-State Metro Area Areas Served: NYC, Ns, Sf, 646.499.1456
Wc, Rk, Ff, Lf
Corinne Kohrherr, L.Ac. akoyaacupuncture.com
& Herbalist 646.484.9335 Anna Merrill & Jada birthdaypresence.net
Akoya Acupuncture Shapiro 917.751.6579
Areas Served: Mn Birth Day Presence
Areas Served: NYC
Anna Panettiere, L.Ac. aphealingarts.com
Anna Panettiere, Acu- 646.486.5756 Amanda Gentile adgphotography.com
puncture & Herbs Areas Served: Entire [email protected]
Areas Served: Mn Tri-State Metro Area

Sharon Yeung L.Ac., fiveseasonshealing.com Michelle Ingkavet miphotostudio.com

Doula 917.538.5755 Photography 310.213.7553
Five Seasons Healing Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk,
Areas Served: NYC, Wc, NJ Ns, Wc

Jaesun Yoo, L.Ac. yoohealing.com
Full Circle Family Care 914.421.1500 Bodywork
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bx,
Wc, Rk, Ff Abdominal Massage
Pamela Morrison pamelamorrisonpt.com
Erin Borbet, L.Ac., MS, grow-wellness.com Physical Therapy 212.362.3022
Doula - Grow Wellness 646.842.1598 Areas Served: Mn
Acupuncture
Areas Served: NYC, Ns, Sf, Wc
Craniosacral Therapy
Laura Gabbe, MS, L.Ac. LauraGabbe.com Deborah Badran, CD [email protected]
Areas Served: Mn, Bk 347.927.8566 (DONA), Craniosacral 212.753.8160
Therapist, RCST®
Meg Richichi, MS, L.Ac. megrichichi.com Celebration of Life
Areas Served: Mn 212.358.0113 Areas Served: Mn

To learn more about these providers, please visit our Online To learn more about these providers, please visit our Online
48 Mother-Friendly Provider Network at Mother-Friendly Provider Network at 49
www.choicesinchildbirth.org/network www.choicesinchildbirth.org/network
Craniosacral Therapy (continued) Massage Therapy (continued)
Ellynne Skove gogobabies.net Isa Herrera, MSPT, renew-pt.com
GoGo Babies 718.643.6064 CSCS 877.REN.EWPT
Providers
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk, Si Renew Physical Therapy, PC
Areas Served: Mn, Bk
Jane Gatanis, MS,OTR/L janegatanis.com
Jane Gatanis, OTR, 212.674.6610 Julia Chan sohosanctuary.com
Craniosacral Therapist Soho Sanctuary 212.334.5550
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk Areas Served: Mn

Karen Erickson, DC EricksonHealingArts.com Ula Katsoulis LMT CST nyc-painrelief.com

Areas Served: NYC, Ns, Sf, Wc 212.721.0177 Stillpoint Holistic Studio 646.645.5207
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk
Massage Therapy
Trish DeTura, RN, CNM, womensholistichealing.com
Robin Gillies, LMT, RYT breathingroomnyc.com Maya Abdominal 201 384.4955
Breathing Room® 917.617.1153 Therapist
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk, Bx Women’s Holistic
Healing
Emily Landry, LMT/ emilylandrylmt.com Areas Served: NJ
Doula 347.762.4060
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk Physical Therapy

Jennie KixMiller handsonhealthny.com Julie Sandler-Friedman, ComprehensiveMovement-
Hands on Health 917.836.6034 PT, MS, GCFP Therapy.com
Areas Served: Bk Comprehensive Move- 212.864.2634
ment Therapy®
Nicole Libschik holistichandsnyc.com Areas Served: Mn
Holistic Hands LLC 646.480.6085
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk, Dr. Melissa Keras- fullcirclefamilycare.com
Ns, Sf Donaghy, DPT, CLT- 914.421.1500
LANA
Janet Markovits maternalmassageandmore Full Circle Family Care
Maternal Massage & 212.533.3188 Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bx,
More Wc, Rk, Ff
Areas Served: Mn, Bk
Marianne Ryan mrptny.com
Marianne Ryan mrptny.com MRPT Physical Therapy 212.661.2933
MRPT Physical Therapy 212.661.2933 Areas Served: NYC
Areas Served: NYC
Isa Herrera, MSPT, CSCS renew-pt.com
Susan Marie Gallo, LMT, natureofbody.com Renew Physical Therapy, 877.REN.EWPT
CD 646.491.1857 PC
Nature of Body Areas Served: Mn, Bk
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk,
Ns, Sf Reiki

Pamela Dryden LMT/ [email protected] Ellynne Skove gogobabies.net

MLD, Manual Lymphatic 212.688.3746 GoGo Babies 718.643.6064
Drainage Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk, Si
Areas Served: Mn
Breastfeeding Support
Pamela Morrison pamelamorrisonpt.com
Physical Therapy 212.362.3022 Meredith Fein Lichten- amotherisborn.com
Areas Served: Mn berg, IBCLC, CCE 917.412.3247
A Mother is Born
Stana Weisburd, LMT [email protected] Areas Served: Mn, Bk
Park Slope Doulas & 917.575.1227
Massage Therapy Lisa Sandhusen bellymamas.com
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk BellyMamas 201.881.6338
Areas Served: Rk, NJ
Lena DeGloma, BA, LMT, CD redmoonmassagetherapy.com
Red Moon Massage & 609.576.7638
Childbirth
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk

To learn more about these providers, please visit our Online To learn more about these providers, please visit our Online
50 Mother-Friendly Provider Network at Mother-Friendly Provider Network at 51
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Breastfeeding (continued) Breastfeeding (continued)
Bianca Fehn biancacarolina.com Bianca Fehn metrominis.com
Bianca Carolina - Early 718.361.1557 Metro Minis 212.313.9600
Providers
Parenting Support Areas Served: Entire
Areas Served: NYC, Ns, Sf, Tri-State Metro Area
Wc, Rk
Sylvie Blaustein MidwiferyofManhattan.com
Pauline Nardella, RN, BirthingWisdom.com Midwifery of Manhattan 212.957.3006
MPA, IBCLC 845.323.1830 Areas Served: NYC, Ns, Wc, Rk
Birthing Wisdom
Areas Served: Wc, Rk, NJ Kelli DeFlora montclairbaby.com
Montclair B.A.B.Y. 201.259.0400
Deirdre McLary breastfeedingarts.com “Birth, Advocacy,
Breastfeeding Arts 845.323.8977 Breastfeeding & Yoga”
Areas Served: Mn, Bx, Wc, Areas Served: NJ
Rk, Bg
Stephanie Hinkaty rivertownmamas.com
Linda Perry CompleteWomanMidwifery. Rivertown Mamas 917.209.1573
Complete Woman com Areas Served: Wc
Midwifery & Manhattan 646.536.3726
Home Birth Laura Leiker sohoparenting.com
Areas Served: NYC, Wc, Rk, Soho Parenting 212.334.3744
NJ Areas Served: Entire
Tri-State Metro Area
Sara D. Newman, IBCLC, DisforDoula.com
CLC, PCD (DONA) 917.597.1633 Tamara Hawkins storkandcradle.com
D is for Doula Stork & Cradle, Inc 646.334.3830
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk, Bx Areas Served:Mn, Qn, Bk,
Bx, Wc, Hd, Bg
Regina Camillieri, breastfeedingatfullcircle.com
IBCLC, RLC Full Circle 914.421.1538 Katherine Koncelik, CPD, doulanetworkofLI.com
Family Care CLC 631.581.1066
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bx, The Nurturing Way
Wc, Rk, Ff Areas Served: Ns, Sf

Kate Sharp, IBCLC katesharpibclc.com Childbirth Education
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk, 212.595.1627
Bx, Hd Meredith Fein Lichten- amotherisborn.com
berg, IBCLC, CCE 917.412.3247
Jessie Conrad jessieconrad.com A Mother is Born
Birth Doula Services, 347.885.2103 Areas Served: Mn, Bk
Breastfeeding Support &
Private Yoga Instruction Anna Merrill & Jada birthdaypresence.net
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk Shapiro 917.751.6579
Birth Day Presence
Patricia McGuire, IBCLC lactationwellness.com Areas Served: NYC
Lactation Wellness 917.553.8381
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk Silvie Falschlunger, birth-in-motion.com
Ph.D., CCE, CD, CLC 914.522.6980
Leigh Anne O’Connor, leighanneoconnor.com Birth in Motion
IBCLC 917.596.3646 Areas Served: Mn, Bx, Wc, Ff

Areas Served: Mn, Bk
Lisa Taylor birthmattersnyc.com

Birth Matters NYC 646.249.9010
Jennifer Lisimachio, MahalaMom.com
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk
IBCLC 917.312.5700
Mahala Lactation
Gillian Foreman birthfocus.com
Areas Served: NJ
BirthFocus, LLC 917.414.5595
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk
Tanya Wills, Certified manhattandoulanyc.com

Holistic Doula, CLC, 347.512.9550
Pauline Nardella, RN, birthingwisdom.com
AAHCC
MPA, IBCLC 845.323.1830
Manhattan Doula NYC
Birthing Wisdom
Areas Served: Mn
Areas Served: Wc, Rk, NJ

To learn more about these providers, please visit our Online To learn more about these providers, please visit our Online
52 Mother-Friendly Provider Network at Mother-Friendly Provider Network at 53
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Childbirth Education (continued) Childbirth Education (continued)
Hope Garland blossombirth.info Tamara Srdanovic HypnobabiesNYC.com
Blossom Birth 917.586.7396 Hypnobabies® NYC 718.496.5093
Providers
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk, Areas Served: NYC, Wc
Ns, Sf
Laure Sinnhuber-Giles [email protected]
Lisa Ludovici LisaLudovici.com Childbirth 917.412.5869
Certified Medical Sup- 646.402.6311 Areas Served: NYC, Hd
port Clinical Hypnotist
Areas Served: Mn Celeste P Rachell longislandbirthpartners.com
Long Island Birth 516.484.6545
Shara Frederick sharafrederick.com Partners
Childbirth Education & 718.637.1170 Areas Served: Qn, Ns
Labor Support
Areas Served: NYC, Ns, Sf, Wc Jayne Freeman mamarama.tv
Mamarama 201.988.0219
Tamara Wrenn CEAMNY.org Areas Served: Mn, Bk, NJ
Childbirth Education 917.740.4511
Association of Metro- Tanya Wills, Certified manhattandoulanyc.com
politan New York Holistic Doula, CLC, 347.512.9550
Areas Served: NYC, Ns, Sf, AAHCC
Wc, Rk, Hd, Bg Manhattan Doula NYC
Areas Served: Mn
Katherine Anderson [email protected]
Childbirth Educator & 914.693.7506 Bianca Fehn metrominis.com
Birth Doula Metro Minis 212.313.9600
Areas Served: Mn, Bx, Wc, Rk Areas Served: Entire
Tri-State Metro Area
Julia Mannes juliamannes.com
Doula Julia 917.216.1991 Mary Esther Malloy mindfulbirthny.com
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk, Mindful Birth 347.276.2819
Bx, Wc Areas Served: NYC, Wc, Rk

Sheila Kamara Hay ecstatic-birth.com Kelli DeFlora montclairbaby.com

Ecstatic Birth 917.740.7429 Montclair B.A.B.Y. 201.259.0400
Areas Served: Mn “ Birth, Advocacy,
Breastfeeding & Yoga”
Ellen Chuse ellenchusechildbirth.com Areas Served: NJ
Ellen Chuse Childbirth 718.789.1981
Areas Served: Mn, Bk Gail Cirlin.Lazerus, mothersintuitionbirth.com
LMSW, LCCE, CD (DONA) 845.499.0480
Erica Lyon ericalyon.com Mother’s Intuition Birth
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk 347.645.7827 Areas Served: Mn, Wc,
Rk, Bg
Terry Richmond [email protected]
experienced labor sup- 917.533.9872 Debi Tracy OneBirthAtATime.com
port One Birth At A Time 516.351.7792
Areas Served: Mn, Bk Areas Served: Entire
Tri-State Metro Area
Sarah Moore, MA, CD, www.figtreechildbirth.com
CCE, CLEC 347.262.0798 Deb Flashenberg prenatalyogacenter.com
Fig Tree Childbirth Prenatal Yoga Center 212.362.2985
Services Areas Served: Mn, Bk
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk
Rebecca Sagoskin Stein, [email protected]
Pauline Nardella, RN, birthingwisdom.com Childbirth Education 917.817.7134
CCE 845.323.1830 Areas Served: Mn, Bx, Wc,
Full Circle Family Care Rk, Bg
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bx,
Wc, Rk, Ff Lena DeGloma, BA, LMT, redmoonmassagetherapy.com
CD 609.576.7638
Gayle Lemke gaylelemke.com Red Moon Massage &
Pregnancy Yoga • Pro- 917.750.0516 Childbirth
fessional Labor Support Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk
• Postpartum Services
Areas Served: Mn, Bk, Ex
To learn more about these providers, please visit our Online To learn more about these providers, please visit our Online
54 Mother-Friendly Provider Network at Mother-Friendly Provider Network at 55
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Childbirth Education (continued) Chiropractic Care (continued)
Ceridwen Morris thenewmom.com Lara Kossover soulshinechiropractic.com
School of Birth 718.350.5309 Soulshine Chiropractic 718.832.7390
Providers
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk Studio
Areas Served: NYC
Tamara Hawkins storkandcradle.com
Stork & Cradle, Inc 646.334.3830
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk, Doula Support
Bx, Wc, Hd, Bg
Labor Support
The Birth Studio thebirthstudio.com
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk, 917.561.4954 AnneMarie Chiarappa- [email protected]
Bx, Ns, Wc Polak 718.784.3252
Areas Served: NYC, Ns, Hd
Erica Lyon tribecaparenting.com
Tribeca Parenting 646.863.4500 Anna Merrill & Jada birthdaypresence.net
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk, Hd Shapiro 917.751.6579
Birth Day Presence
Gillian Foreman urbanbabywearing.com Areas Served: NYC
Urban Babywearing 347.687.0006
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Si, Bx Wendy C. Ledesma, CD wendycdoula.com
(DONA) 646.269.5367
Birth Doula Care
Chiropractic Care
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk, Bx
Dr. Joseph A. Cucci cuccichiropractic.com
Cucci Chiropractic 212.980.9332 Silvie Falschlunger, birth-in-motion.com
Areas Served: Mn Ph.D., CCE, CD, CLC 914.522.6980
Birth In Motion
Dr. Beth Forgosh dcofsoho.com Areas Served: Mn, Bx, Wc, Ff
Discover Chiropractic 212.598.5995
of Soho Martina Szarek birthfocus.com
Areas Served: Mn BirthFocus, LLC 917.414.5595
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk
Dr. Bradley Grossman D.C. BradleyGrossman.com
Areas Served: Mn 212.691.6885 Valerie Inzinna, CMT, bodhibodyworksNJ.com
CEIM 732.895.4869
Dr. Randi Jaffe drrandijaffe.com bodhi bodyworks:
Areas Served: NYC 917.882.1035 massage + doula care
Areas Served: Mn, Si, Wc,
Dr. Shary Wagreich, eastmidtownchiro.com Rk, NJ
DICCP, ACRB Certified 212.679.9270
Areas Served: Mn Deirdre McLary breastfeedingarts.com
Breastfeeding Arts 845.323.8977
Dr. Jonathan Donath jointeffortchiro.com Areas Served: Mn, Bx, Wc,
Full Circle Family Care 914.421.1502 Rk, Bg
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bx,
Wc, Rk, Ff Alexandra Newmark brooklynbirthdoula.com
Brooklyn Birth Doula 347.581.8007
Dr. Karen Erickson, DC EricksonHealingArts.com Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk
Areas Served: NYC, Ns, 212.721.0177
Sf, Wc Deborah Badran, CD [email protected]
(DONA), Craniosacral 212.753.8160
Dr. Glenn Scarpelli madisonwellnesscenter.com Therapist, RCST®
Madison Wellness 212.689.4648 Celebration of Life
Center Areas Served: Mn
Areas Served: Mn
Shara Frederick sharafrederick.com
Dr. Andrea Auerbach [email protected] Childbirth Education & 718.637.1170
Park Slope Chiropractic 718.399.1111 Labor Support
Family Wellness Center Areas Served: NYC, Ns,
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk Sf, Wc

Dr. Merrill Rudin rudinchiropractic.com

Rudin Chiropractic 212.755.8732
Areas Served: Mn

To learn more about these providers, please visit our Online To learn more about these providers, please visit our Online
56 Mother-Friendly Provider Network at Mother-Friendly Provider Network at 57
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Labor Support (continued) Labor Support (continued)
Billee Wolff, RN, CD comfortingbirthways.com Lynn Christensen, CD, labourday.net
(DONA), LCCE 201.803.7785 CLC, LCCE 201.541.5616
Providers
Comforting Birthways Labour Day Doula
Areas Served: Mn, Rk, NJ Support
Areas Served: Mn, Bk, Wc,
Vanessa J Anton commonsensecpr.com Rk, NJ
Common Sense CPR 917.261.3825
Areas Served: NYC, Ns, Sf, Laure Sinnhuber-Giles [email protected]
Wc, Rk Childbirth 917.412 .5869
Areas Served: NYC, Hd
Doreen Kramer delightflo.com
delightflo 516.551.8071 Celeste P Rachell longislandbirthpartners.com
Areas Served: Mn, Bk Long Island Birth Part- 516.484.6545
ners
Julia Mannes juliamannes.com Areas Served: Qn, Ns
Doula Julia 917.216.1991
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk, Jessica Sowards, CD lotusdoulas.com
Bx, Wc (DONA) 917.721 .3963
Lotus Doulas
Emily Landry, LMT/ emilylandrylmt.com Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk
Doula 347.762.4060
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk Mia Borgatta mayoganyc.com
Ma Yoga 917.407.6840
Terry Richmond [email protected] Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk
experienced labor support 917.533.9872
Areas Served: Mn, Bk Maiysha Campbell, CD maidoula.com
(DONA) 917.771.2847
Gayle Lemke gaylelemke.com Mai Doula
Pregnancy Yoga • Pro- 917.750.0516 Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk, Bx
fessional Labor Support
• Postpartum Services Latham Thomas, HHC, mamaglow.com
Areas Served: Mn, Bk, Ex AADP 917.328.4720
Mama Glow
Nicole Libschik holistichandsnyc.com Areas Served: Mn
Holistic Hands LLC 646.480.6085
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk, Tanya Wills, Certified manhattandoulanyc.com
Ns, Sf Holistic Doula, CLC, 347.512.9550
AAHCC
Jessie Conrad jessieconrad.com Manhattan Doula NYC
Birth Doula Services, 347.885.2103 Areas Served: Mn
Breastfeeding Support &
Private Yoga Instruction Metro Doula Group metrodoula.com
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk Areas Served: Entire
Tri-State Metro Area
Mollie Michel molliedoula.com
Kairos Doula Services 718.536.6336 Milon Nagi Birth [email protected]
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk, Si Areas Served: Mn, Bk 917.426.4193

Catherine Stewart- laborlove.org Mary Esther Malloy mindfulbirthny.com

Lindley 917.699.8790 Mindful Birth 347.276.2819
Labor of Love Childbirth Areas Served: NYC, Wc, Rk
Services
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk, Kelli DeFlora montclairbaby.com
Bx, Wc, Rk, Ex, Hd Montclair B.A.B.Y. 201.259.0400
“Birth, Advocacy,
Nicole Ganzekaufer laborwithlovenyc.com Breastfeeding & Yoga”
Labor with Love NYC 718.314.4595 Areas Served: NJ
Birth Doula & Breast-
feeding Support Deborah Rotunno doulanetworkofli.com
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk, Si MotherCare Doula 631.650.7903
Services
Areas Served: Ns, Sf

To learn more about these providers, please visit our Online To learn more about these providers, please visit our Online
58 Mother-Friendly Provider Network at Mother-Friendly Provider Network at 59
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Labor Support (continued) Postpartum Support (continued)
Gail Cirlin-Lazerus, mothersintuitionbirth.com Sara D. Newman, IBCLC, DisforDoula.com
LMSW, LCCE, CD 845.499.0480 CLC, PCD (DONA) 917.597.1633
Providers
(DONA) D is for Doula
Mother’s Intuition Birth Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk, Bx
Areas Served: Mn, Wc, Rk, Bg
Ruth Callahan, CLC, doulacare.com
Susan Marie Gallo, LMT, natureofbody.com PCD 212.749.6613
CD 646.491.1857 Doula Care Postpartum
Nature of Body Service
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk, Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk, Bx
Ns, Sf
Gayle Lemke gaylelemke.com
NYC Doula Collective nycdoulacollective.com Pregnancy Yoga • Pro- 917.750.0516
Areas Served: NYC, Hd 718.314.4595 fessional Labor Support
• Postpartum Services
Lauren Kunis, CD nycdoulaservice.com Areas Served: Mn, Bk, Ex
(DONA), CCCE, Reiki 917.617.7905
Master, HypnoDoula Christine Kealy inafamilyway.com
NYC Doula Service In a Family Way 212.877.8112
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk, Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk
Bx, Ns
Tanya Wills, Certified manhattandoulanyc.com
Stana Weisburd, LMT [email protected] Holistic Doula, CLC, 347.512.9550
Park Slope Doulas & 917.575.1227 AAHCC
Massage Therapy Manhattan Doula NYC
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk Areas Served: Mn

Caitlin Toscano [email protected] Metro Doula Group metrodoula.com
Peaceful Birth Guardian 610.462.6900 Areas Served: Entire
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk Tri-State Metro Area

Lena DeGloma, BA, LMT, redmoonmassagetherapy.com Jen Kowal montclairdoula.com
CD 609.576.7638 Montclair Doula 973.493.2632
Red Moon Massage & Areas Served: NJ
Childbirth
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk Deborah Rotunno doulanetworkofli.com
MotherCare Doula 631.650.7903
Patricia Fox shaktitots.com Services
Shaktitots 917.843.4988 Areas Served: Ns, Sf
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk, Si
Jessica Frederick doulainnyc.com
The Birth Studio thebirthstudio.com Postpartum Doula 917. 523.3821
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk, 917.561.4954 Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk
Bx, Ns, Wc
Katherine Koncelik, doulanetworkofLI.com
Gillian Foreman urbanbabywearing.com CPD, CLC 631.581.1066
Urban Babywearing 347.687.0006 The Nurturing Way
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Si, Bx Areas Served: Ns, Sf

Postpartum Support First Aid

Lisa Sandhusen bellymamas.com Vanessa J Anton commonsensecpr.com
BellyMamas 201.881.6338 Common Sense CPR 917.261.3825
Areas Served: Rk, NJ Areas Served: NYC, Ns, Sf,
Wc, Rk
Anna Merrill & Jada birthdaypresence.net
Shapiro 917.751.6579 Sara D. Newman, IBCLC, DisforDoula.com
Birth Day Presence CLC, PCD (DONA) 917.597.1633
Areas Served: NYC D is for Doula
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk,
Martina Szarek birthfocus.com Bx
BirthFocus, LLC 917.414.5595
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk

To learn more about these providers, please visit our Online To learn more about these providers, please visit our Online
60 Mother-Friendly Provider Network at Mother-Friendly Provider Network at 61
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Yoga (continued)
Jill Wodnick JillWodnick.com
Fitness Montclair Maternity 973.655.1628
Providers
Specialty Services Areas Served: Ex

Jennie KixMiller handsonhealthny.com Linda Antignani MEYoga.net
Hands on Health 917.836.6034 Mother’s Embrace Yoga 203.925.9642
Areas Served: Bk Areas Served: Ff, Nh
Yoga
Eve Stahlberger [email protected]
Bianca Fehn biancacarolina.com PiscesYoga 347.563.7126
Bianca Carolina - Early 718.361.1557 Areas Served: Mn, Bk
Parenting Support
Areas Served: NYC, Ns, Sf, Deb Flashenberg prenatalyogacenter.com
Wc, Rk Prenatal Yoga Center 212.362.2985
Areas Served: Mn, Bk
Julie Sandler-Friedman, ComprehensiveMovement
PT MS, GCFP Therapy.com Katherine Artibee SanctuaryPilates.com
Comprehensive 212.864.2634 Sanctuary Pilates & 212.427.6047
Movement Therapy® Wellness
Areas Served: Mn Areas Served: Entire
Tri-State Metro Area
Doreen Kramer delightflo.com shaktitots.com
delightflo 516.551.8071 Patricia Fox 917.843.4988
Areas Served: Mn, Bk Shaktitots
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk, Si
Beth Gibney Boulden [email protected]
Full Circle Family Care 914.421.1500 Julia Chan sohosanctuary.com
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bx, Soho Sanctuary 212.334.5550
Wc, Rk, Ff Areas Served: Mn

Gayle Lemke gaylelemke.com Mary Barnes, RYT 500 yogafortwo.com
Pregnancy Yoga • Pro- 917.750.0516 YOGA FOR TWO: Prena- 917.952.1969
fessional Labor Support tal/Mom & Baby
• Postpartum Services Areas Served: Mn
Areas Served: Mn, Bk, Ex

Ellynne Skove gogobabies.net Herbalism

GoGo Babies 718.643.6064
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk, Si Juliette Aiyana, L.Ac. HealthyStuffU.com
Herbalist 212.894.0767
Jessie Conrad jessieconrad.com Aiyana Acupuncture &
Birth Doula Services, 347.885.2103 Chinese Herbs
Breastfeeding Support & Areas Served: Entire
Private Yoga Instruction Tri-State Metro Area
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk
Corinne Kohrherr, L.Ac. akoyaacupuncture.com
Mia Borgatta mayoganyc.com & Herbalist 646.484.9335
Ma Yoga 917.407.6840 Akoya Acupuncture
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk Areas Served: Mn

Latham Thomas mamaglow.com
Mama Glow 917.328.4720 Homeopathy
Areas Served: Mn
Sue Anello RS Hom sueanellohomeopathy.co.uk
Michelle Ingkavet hereandnowyoga.com (NA), CCH, Homeopath 917.881.8970
Here and Now Yoga 310.213.7553 Sue Anello Homeopathy
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk, Areas Served: Mn
Ns, Wc

Kelli DeFlora montclairbaby.com

Montclair B.A.B.Y. “ 201.259.0400
Birth, Advocacy, Breast-
feeding & Yoga”
Areas Served: NJ

To learn more about these providers, please visit our Online To learn more about these providers, please visit our Online
62 Mother-Friendly Provider Network at Mother-Friendly Provider Network at 63
www.choicesinchildbirth.org/network www.choicesinchildbirth.org/network
Midwifery Care (continued)
Martine Jean-Baptiste [email protected]
Mental Health JJB Midwifery 212.7694.578
Providers
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk, Si
Kelly Brogan MD kellybroganmd.com
ABIHM 646.706.7771 Karen Jefferson [email protected]
Areas Served: Mn JJB Midwifery 718.230.4789
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk, Si

Midwifery Care Kristen Leonard, CNM [email protected]

Areas Served: NYC 646.290.8020
Catherine Clark CNM bluebirdmidwifery.com
Bluebird Midwifery 718.855.8885 Barbara Charles [email protected]
Areas Served: Bk Long Island & Queens 631.427.4833
Midwifery Service
Lonnie Morris childbirthcenter.net Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk,
Childbirth & Women’s 201.567.0810 Ns, Sf, Wc
Wellness Center
Areas Served: Ex, Bg, Hd Marcy Perlman Tardio, [email protected]
CNM 718.788.9131
Stacey Rees clementinemidwifery.com Areas Served: NYC, Hd
Clementine Midwifery 646.519.7209
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk Martha Roth [email protected]
Areas Served: Mn, Bx, Wc, 845.348.8715
Linda Perry, LM CompleteWomanMidwifery.com Rk, Ff, Lf
Complete Woman 646.536.3726
Midwifery & Manhattan Kristin Mallon, CNM, njmidwifery.com
Home Birth MS 201.487.8600
Areas Served: NYC, Wc, Midwifery at Maternal
Rk, NJ Resources
Areas Served: Rk, NJ
Barri Malek crowningcomforts.com
Crowning Comforts 646.354.1372 Sylvie Blaustein MidwiferyofManhattan.com
Midwifery Midwifery of Manhattan 212.957.3006
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk Areas Served: NYC, Ns,
Wc, Rk
Memaniye Cinque, CNM dyekorasumda.com
Dyekora Sumda Mid- 718.573.2432 Risa Klein, CNM risakleincnm.com
wifery Services Areas Served: NYC, Wc, Rk, 973.614.1171
Areas Served: NYC, Ns, Wc NJ

Full Circle Women’s fullcirclewomenshealth.com Vicki Hedley seventhmoonhomebirth.com

Health 914.421.1500 Seventh Moon Home- 201.505.1214
Full Circle Family Care birth Midwifery
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bx, Areas Served: Mn, Bx, Wc,
Wc, Rk, Ff Rk, NJ

Sakina O’Uhuru gentlespiritbirth.com Simone Marshall, CNM, midwifesimone.com
Gentle Spirit Home 212.368.2229 WHNP 347.770.4588
Birth Midwifery Soul Love Midwifery
Areas Served: NYC, Wc, Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk,
Rk, NJ Bx

Anne Margolis MyHomeSweetHomeBirth.com Valeriana Pasqua- HomeBirthMidwifery.com
Home Sweet Homebirth 845.364.0105 Masback, CNM 845.426.4686
Midwifery PLLC Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk,
Areas Served: Wc, Rk, Ex, Bx, Wc, Rk, Hd, Bg
Bg, Ff
Natural Fertility Counseling
Jessica Lawlor newjerseyhomebirth.com
In Due Season 973.875.6216 Stacey Rees clementinemidwifery.com
Homebirth Clementine Midwifery 646.519.7209
Areas Served: Rk, NJ Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk

To learn more about these providers, please visit our Online To learn more about these providers, please visit our Online
64 Mother-Friendly Provider Network at Mother-Friendly Provider Network at 65
www.choicesinchildbirth.org/network www.choicesinchildbirth.org/network
Natural Fertility Counseling (continued) Nutrition (continued)
Dr. Eden Fromberg, DO, dredenfromberg.com Linda Perry CompleteWomanMidwifery.com
FACOOG, DABIHM 212.941.0011 Complete Woman 646.536.3726
Providers
Areas Served: Entire Tri- Midwifery & Manhattan
State Metro Area Home Birth
Areas Served: NYC, Wc, Rk,
Sharon Yeung L.Ac., fiveseasonshealing.com NJ
Doula 917.538.5755
Five Seasons Healing Dr. Beth Forgosh dcofsoho.com
Areas Served: NYC, Wc, NJ Discover Chiropractic 212.598.5995
of SoHo
Alisa Vitti, HHC, AADP floliving.com Areas Served: Mn
FLO Living 212.581.0001
Areas Served: Entire Dr. Eden Fromberg, DO, dredenfromberg.com
Tri-State Metro Area FACOOG, DABIHM 212.941.0011
Areas Served: Entire
Erin Borbet L.Ac, MS, grow-wellness.com Tri-State Metro Area
Doula 646.842.1598
Grow Wellness Alisa Vitti floliving.com
Acupuncture FLO Living 212.581.0001
Areas Served: NYC, Ns, Areas Served: Entire Tri-
Sf, Wc State Metro Area

Latham Thomas mamaglow.com Erin Borbet L.Ac, MS, esemahealingarts.com
Mama Glow 917.328.4720 Doula 646.842.1598
Areas Served: Mn Grow Wellness Acupunc-
ture
Debi Tracy OneBirthAtATime.com Areas Served: NYC, Ns,
One Birth At A Time 516.351.7792 Sf, Wc
Areas Served: Entire
Tri-State Metro Area Jennifer Medley Nutri- jennifermedley.com
tion & Wellness, HHC, 646.536.3799
Naturopathy AADP
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk
Vivian Lord, N.D. LLC drvivianlord.com
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk, 917.767.3652 Latham Thomas mamaglow.com
Bx Mama Glow 917.328.4720
Areas Served: Mn
Nutrition
Obstetric Care
Juliette Aiyana, L.Ac. HealthyStuffU.com
Aiyana Acupuncture & 212.894.0767 Dr. Eden Fromberg, DO, dredenfromberg.com
Chinese Herbs FACOOG, DABIHM 212 941.0011
Areas Served: Entire Areas Served: Entire
Tri-State Metro Area Tri-State Metro Area

Bianca Fehn biancacarolina.com Scott G Hartmann, MD montefiore.org

Bianca Carolina - Early 718.361.1557 Montefiore Family 718.933.2400
Parenting Support Health Center
Areas Served: NYC, Ns, Sf, Areas Served: Bx
Wc, Rk
Marc Levin institute2000.org
Jill Cruz bodywisefoodsmart.com Phillips Family Practice 212.206.5200
Body Wise, Food Smart 845.425.1953 Areas Served: Mn
Areas Served: Entire
Tri-State Metro Area Jaqueline Worth & villageobstetrics.com
George Mussalli 212.741.2229
Carol Patti, MS Clinical parkslopenutrition.com Village Obstetrics
Nutrition 718.399.1111 Areas Served: Entire
Areas Served: NYC Tri-State Metro Area

Fabienne Daguillh, MD montefiore.org
Williamsbridge Family 718.547.6111
Health Center
Areas Served: Bx

To learn more about these providers, please visit our Online To learn more about these providers, please visit our Online
66 Mother-Friendly Provider Network at Mother-Friendly Provider Network at 67
www.choicesinchildbirth.org/network www.choicesinchildbirth.org/network
General Parenting Support (continued)
Bianca Fehn metrominis.com
Parenting Support Metro Minis 212.313.9600
Providers
Baby Care Classes Areas Served:
Entire Tri-State Metro Area
Pauline Nardella, RN, BirthingWisdom.com
MPA, IBCLC 845.323.1830 Mary Esther Malloy mindfulbirthny.com
Birthing Wisdom Mindful Birth 347.276.2819
Areas Served: Wc, Rk, NJ Areas Served: NYC, Wc, Rk

Donna Simone fullcirclefamilycare.com Kelli DeFlora montclairbaby.com
Full Circle Family Care 914.421.1500 Montclair B.A.B.Y. 201.259.0400
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bx, “Birth, Advocacy,
Wc, Rk, Ff Breastfeeding & Yoga”
Areas Served: NJ
Ellynne Skove gogobabies.net
GoGo Babies 718.643.6064 Jessica Frederick doulainnyc.com
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk, Si Postpartum Doula 917. 523. 3821
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk
Jen Kowal montclairdoula.com
Montclair Doula 973.493.2632 Laurie Nicholson raisingastoria.com
Areas Served: NJ Raising Astoria 718.440.9444
Areas Served: Qn
Laura Leiker sohoparenting.com
Soho Parenting 212.334.3744 Laura Leiker sohoparenting.com
Areas Served: Entire Soho Parenting 212.334.3744
Tri-State Metro Area Areas Served: Entire
Tri-State Metro Area
Erica Lyon tribecaparenting.com
Tribeca Parenting 646.863.4500 Gillian Foreman urbanbabywearing.com
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk, Hd Urban Babywearing 347.687.0006
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Si, Bx
General Parenting Support
LGBTQ Reproduction & Parenting Support
Meredith Fein Lichten- amotherisborn.com
berg 917.412.3247
A Mother is Born Stacey Rees clementinemidwifery.com
Areas Served: Mn, Bk Clementine Midwifery 646.519.7209
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk
Bianca Fehn biancacarolina.com
Bianca Carolina - Early 718.361.1557 Gina Eichenbaum-Pikser, communitygyn.com
Parenting Support CNM 917.599.7719
Areas Served: NYC, Ns, Sf, Community Gyn Care
Wc, Rk Areas Served: NYC

Adriane Stare cariboubaby.com Linda Perry CompleteWomanMidwifery.com
Caribou Baby 347.460.BABY Complete Woman 646.536.3726
Areas Served: NYC Midwifery & Manhattan
Home Birth
Marija Mikolajczak ecwear.com Areas Served: NYC, Wc,
EC Wear LLC 718.535.7824 Rk, NJ
Areas Served: NYC, Ns, Sf,
Wc, Ff Ellynne Skove gogobabies.net
GoGo Babies 718.643.6064
Erica Lyon ericalyon.com Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk, Si
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk 347.645.7827
Pediatric Care
Debra Pascali-Bonaro globalbirthfair.com
Global Birth Fair 201.666.9429 Dr. Beth Forgosh dcofsoho.com
Areas Served: Entire Discover Chiropractic 212.598.5995
Tri-State Metro Area of Soho
Areas Served: Mn

Dr. Randi Jaffe drrandijaffe.com

Areas Served: NYC 917.882.1035

To learn more about these providers, please visit our Online To learn more about these providers, please visit our Online
68 Mother-Friendly Provider Network at Mother-Friendly Provider Network at 69
www.choicesinchildbirth.org/network www.choicesinchildbirth.org/network
Pediatric Care (continued) Well-Women Gynecological Care (continued)

Dr. Shary Wagreich, www.eastmidtownchiro.com Stacey Rees clementinemidwifery.com
Providers
DICCP, ACRB Certified 212.679.9270 Clementine Midwifery 646.519.7209
Areas Served: Mn Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk

Sharon Yeung L.Ac., fiveseasonshealing.com Gina Eichenbaum-Pikser

Doula 917.538.5755 Community Gyn Care communitygyn.com
Five Seasons Healing Areas Served: NYC 917.599.7719
Areas Served: NYC, Wc, NJ
Linda Perry
Dr. Karen Erickson, DC EricksonHealingArts.com Complete Woman CompleteWomanMidwifery.com
Areas Served: NYC, Ns, 212.721.0177 Midwifery & Manhattan 646.536.3726
Sf, Wc Home Birth
Areas Served: NYC, Wc, Rk,
Marc Levin institute2000.org NJ
Phillips Family Practice 212.206.5200
Areas Served: Mn Dr. Eden Fromberg, DO,
FACOOG, DABIHM dredenfromberg.com
Dr. Jerry Clements [email protected] Areas Served: Entire 212.941.0011
Village Family Practice 212.477.1750 Tri-State Metro Area
Areas Served: Mn
Full Circle Women’s
Prenatal/Postpartum Counseling Health fullcirclewomenshealth.com
Full Circle Family Care 914.421.1500
Dana Federbush 14StreetY.org Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bx,
14th Street Y 646.396.4336 Wc, Rk, Ff
Areas Served: Mn, Bk
Sylvie Blaustein
Meredith Fein amotherisborn.com Midwifery of Manhattan MidwiferyofManhattan.com
Lichtenberg 917.412.3247 Areas Served: NYC, Ns, 212.957.3006
A Mother is Born Wc, Rk
Areas Served: Mn, Bk
Simone Marshall, CNM,
Ellen Krug choicefulbirth.com WHNP midwifesimone.com
Choiceful Birth & 718.768.0494 Soul Love Midwifery 347.770.4588
Parenting Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk, Bx
Areas Served: Mn, Bk

Linda Perry CompleteWomanMidwifery.com
Complete Woman 646.536.3726
Midwifery & Manhattan
Home Birth
Areas Served: NYC, Wc,
Rk, NJ

Ellen Chuse ellenchusechildbirth.com

Ellen Chuse Childbirth 718.789.1981
Areas Served: Mn, Bk

Ellynne Skove gogobabies.net

GoGo Babies 718.643.6064
Areas Served: Mn, Qn, Bk, Si

Laura Leiker sohoparenting.com

Soho Parenting 212.334.3744
Areas Served: Entire
Tri-State Metro Area

Well-Women Gynecological Care

Wendy
Catherine Clark CNM bluebirdmidwifery.com laboring in
Bluebird Midwifery 718.855.8885 tub
Areas Served: Bk © Wendy Ledesma

To learn more about these providers, please visit our Online

70 Mother-Friendly Provider Network at The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org 71
www.choicesinchildbirth.org/network
RESOURCES
Like care providers, there are innumerable
organizations and agencies that offer services
of interest to birthing women in the New York City Resources
Metro Area.
Here are a few we think you might find helpful:

ADVOCACY
BirthNet
518.482.2504
www.birthnewyork.org/birthnet

BirthNetwork National
www.birthnetwork.org
CT: 860.233.6914, www.birthnetwork.org/connecticut.
htm
NJ: www.birthnetwork.org/newjersey.htm
NY: 631.901.4174, www.birthnetwork.org/newyork.htm

Citizens for Midwifery

888.CfM.4880
www.cfmidwifery.org

Coalition for Improving Maternity Services

(CIMS)
866.424.3635
www.motherfriendly.org

Free Our Midwives

www.freeourmidwives.org

International Center for Traditional Childbearing

(ICTC)
503.460.9324
www.ictcmidwives.org/

National Advocates for Pregnant Women

212.255.9252
www.advocatesforpregnantwomen.org

National Latina Institute for Reproductive

Health
212.422.2553
www.latinainstitute.org

New York Friends of Midwives (NYFOM)

518.584.6619
www.birthnewyork.org/NYFOM/
Aisha SisterSong Women of Color Reproductive Health
with Eliass
Collective
404.756.2680
© Amanda Gentile www.sistersong.net

72 The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org 73
BREASTFEEDING CHILDBIRTH EDUCATION
GotMom.org Birthing from Within
www.GotMom.org 805.964.6611
www.birthingfromwithin.com
Human Milk Banking Association of North Resources
America The Bradley Method
817.810.9984 800.4.A.Birth
www.hmbana.org www.bradleybirth.com

Kellymom Breastfeeding & Parenting The Childbirth Education Association of

www.kellymom.com Metropolitan New York, Inc. (CEAMNY)
917.740.4511
La Leche League International www.ceamny.org
National 24 Hour Hotline: 877.452.5324
Leader Locator: 847.519.7730 HypnoBirthing
www.llli.org 603.798.4781
www.hypnobirthing.com
Online Breastfeeding Café
www.onlinebreastfeedingcafe.com.au/ International Birth and Wellness Project
877.334.4297
National Breastfeeding Helpline www.alace.org
800.994.9662
www.womenshealth.gov/breastfeeding The International Childbirth Education Association
(ICEA)
United States Lactation Consultant Association 800.624.4934
(USLCA) www.icea.org
www.uslca.org
Lamaze International
United States Breastfeeding Committee (USBC) 800.368.4404
202.367.1132 www.lamaze.org
www.usbreastfeeding.org
CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS-EARLY INTERVENTION
World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA)
604.658.4816 AHRC New York City
www.waba.org.my/ 212.780.2500
www.ahrcnyc.org
World Health Organization Recommendations
www.who.int/topics/breastfeeding/en/ Birth to Three (CT)
800.505.7000
CESAREAN SECTION www.birth23.org/

Childbirth Connection New York State Department of Health

212.777.5000 www.health.state.ny.us/community/infants_children/
www.childbirthconnection.org early_intervention/index.htm

International Cesarean Awareness Network New York Public Library

(ICAN) kids.nypl.org/parents/specialneeds.cfm
800.686.4226
www.ican-online.org The National Dissemination Center for Children
CT: [email protected] with Disabilities (NICHCY)
NJ: www.icanofnj.com 800.695.0285
NY: www.icanoflongisland.org, www.icanofqueens.org www.nichcy.org

VBAC.com State of New Jersey Department of Health

www.vbac.com www.nj.gov/health/fhs/eis/index.shtml

74 The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org 75
DOULAS LESBIAN & GAY PARENTING

Childbirth and Postpartum Professional The Center: The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual &
Association (CAPPA) Transgender Community Center (NY)
770.932.7281 212.620.7310
Resources
www.cappa.net www.gaycenter.org

DONA International Children of Lesbian and Gays Everywhere

888.788.DONA (COLAGE)
www.dona.org 855.4.COLAGE
www.colage.org
International Center for Traditional Childbearing
(ICTC) Family Equality Council
NYC Affiliate: Sistahs for Better Birthing 617.502.8700
718.217.4524 www.familyequality.org
www.blackmidwives.org
Gay Parent Magazine
toLabor 718.380.1780
804.320.0607 www.gayparentmag.com
www.tolabor.com
It’s Conceivable: The Path to Parenting Isn’t Always
INTIMATE PARTNER VIOLENCE Straight
Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence www.itsconceivablenow.com
(CCADV)
Hotline: 888.774.2900 Triangle Community Center (CT)
www.ctcadv.org/ 203.853.0600
www.ctgay.org
LAMBDA-GLBT Community Services
www.lambda.org National Center for Lesbian Rights
415.392.6257
New York State Coalition Against Domestic www.nclrights.org
Violence
24-Hour Hotline Rainbow Families of New Jersey (NJ)
800.942.6906 www.rainbowfamiliesnj.org
TTY: 800.818.0656
Spanish: 800.942.6908 MIDWIVES’ PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
Spanish TTY: 800.780.7660 American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM)
www.nyscadv.org 240.485.1800
www.acnm.org (National)
Safe Horizon connecticutmidwife.org (Connecticut)
800.621.4673 (Main) www.newjerseymidwife.org (New Jersey)
866.689.4357 (Crime Victims Hotline) www.nycmidwives.org (New York City)
800.621.4673 (NYC Domestic Violence Hotline)
212.227.3000 (Rape, Sexual Assault & Incest Hotline) Foundation for the Advancement of Midwifery
866.604.5350 (TDD for all) (FAM)
www.safehorizon.org www.formidwifery.org

State of New Jersey Department of Community International Center for Traditional Childbearing
Affairs (ICTC)
Hotline: 800.572.SAFE (7233) NYC Affiliate: Sistahs for Better Birthing
www.state.nj.us/dca/divisions/dow/ 718.217.4524
www.nj.gov/dcf/divisions/dow/resources/countyre- www.blackmidwives.org
sourcesdv.html
Midwives Alliance of North America (MANA)
888.923.MANA
www.mana.org

76 The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org 77
Hackensack University Medical Center (NJ)
National Association of Certified Professional 201.996.5227
Midwives (NACPM)
www.nacpm.org Hygeia Foundation (CT and National)
203.389.7700
Resources
The North American Registry of Midwives www.HygeiaFoundation.org
(NARM)
888.842.4784 Mt. Sinai Perinatal Bereavement Program (NYC)
www.narm.org 212.241.4685

New York Homebirth Midwives National Council of Jewish Women, Pregnancy

www.nyhomebirth.com Loss Support Program (non-denominational)
212.687.5030
New York State Association of Licensed Midwives www.ncjwny.org/services_plsp.htm
(NYSALM)
518.852.7965 Regional Hospice and Home Care of Western
www.nysalm.org Connecticut (CT)
203.792.4422
POSTPARTUM PERIOD
www.regionalhospicect.org/programs-services/perinatal-
Postpartum Dads hospice/
www.postpartumdads.org
SHARE (Pregnancy and Infant Loss Support,
Postpartum Education for Parents (PEP) Inc)
Warmline: 805.564.3888 800.821.6819
www.sbpep.org www.nationalshare.org

Postpartum Resource Center of NY Tiny Miracles Foundation (CT)

www.postpartumny.org 203.202.9714
ttmf.org/bereavement-resources
Postpartum Support International
www.postpartum.net PRE- & POSTNATAL SAFETY
Connecticut Smokers Quitline (CT)
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder After Childbirth 800.Quit.Now
www.angelfire.com/moon2/jkluchar1995/ www.quitnow.net/connecticut

State of New Jersey Department of Health March of Dimes

800.328.3838 212.353.8353
www.state.nj.us/health/fhs/postpartumdepression/ www.marchofdimes.com

United Way of Connecticut Mother-Baby Behavioral Sleep Laboratory

www.211ct.org/informationlibrary/Documents/perina- (Co-Sleeping Information)
talpostpartumdepressionlb.asp www.nd.edu/~jmckenn1/lab

PREGNANCY/NEONATAL LOSS New Jersey Quitline (NJ)

HAND (Helping After Neonatal Death) 866.228.4327
(National) http://www.state.nj.us/health/ctcp/smokefree/other.
24 Hour Helpline: 888.908.HAND shtml
www.handonline.org
New York State Smokers’ Quitline (NY)
Bereavement Center of Westchester (NY) 1-866-NY-QUITS
914.961.2818, ext 317 www.nysmokefree.com
www.thebereavementcenter.org
Lead Safety
Englewood Hospital (NJ)
201.384.8258 EPA National Lead Information Center
800.424.LEAD
www.epa.gov/lead

78 The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org 79
Housing and Urban Development Lead Office Holistic Moms Network
www.hud.gov/offices/lead/index.cfm www.holisticmoms.org
The Leadsafe NJ Program (NJ)
Midwifery Info Online Community
www.state.nj.us/dca/dcr/leadsafe/
www.midwifeinfo.com
Resources
NY State Lead Program (NY) Midwifery Today
www.health.state.ny.us/environmental/lead www.midwiferytoday.com
Mothers of Supertwins
State of Connecticut Lead Program (CT)
www.mostonline.org
www.ct.gov/dph/lead
Mothering Magazine Online Community
RESEARCH www.mothering.com
Association for Prenatal and Perinatal Psychology
and Health Our Bodies, Ourselves
www.birthpsychology.com www.ourbodiesourselves.org
Mothers Naturally
Birthworks International www.mothersnaturally.org
888.TO.BIRTH
www.birthworks.org Waterbirth Internatioanl
www.waterbirth.org
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
(CDC)
800.CDC.INFO
TTY: 888.232.6348
www.cdc.gov

Childbirth Connection
212.777.5000
www.childbirthconnection.org

The Cochrane Collaboration

410.502.4640
www.cochrane.org

The Guttmacher Institute

212.248.1111
www.guttmacher.org

National Child and Maternal Health Education

Program
www.nichd.nih.gov

National Library of Medicine’s PubMed

Database
www.pubmed.gov
The
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Ramirez
family © Heather White
Attachment Parenting International meets Mia

connect with us
www.attachmentparenting.org
Birthing Naturally
www.birthingnaturally.net
www.choicesinchildbirth.org
www.facebook.com/ChoicesinChildbirth
Circumcision Resource Center
www.circumcision.org
www.twitter.com/HealthyBirth

80 The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org 81
the birth studio
childbirth education through dreambirthTM

It is fun. It is playful. It is profound.

Be the author of your own dream birth.

Read dreambirth stories & learn more about our philosophy at

thebirthstudio.com

100 Reade Street, New York, NY 10013 | 917-561-4954 | [email protected]

82 The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org 83
Complete Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging
& Digital Sure Touch Breast Exam
CommonSenseCPR.com
Linda Perry, LM (917) 261-3825
FDA APPROVED
Earliest Breast Cancer Screening
SAFE, EFFECTIVE, PAINLESS, NO RADIATION Specializing in workshops for Infant and Child CPR as well as
car seat installation consultations. Also offering certified classes in
Adult, Child, and Infant CPR / AED / First Aid.
NY: 646-536-3726 NJ: 973-226-2563
Email: [email protected] Instructors are certified by The American Heart Association,
The American Red Cross and Safe Kids USA
www.BreastCancerScreen.com

Because prevention is better than a cure. @CommonSenseCPR facebook.com/CommonSenseCPR

Only free-standing birthing center in NYC • Well-woman care, gynecology & family planning • Skilled midwives provide

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provide personal care throughout prenatal, labor & delivery • Water birth available • Postpartum home visits for mom &
Midwifery services for all stages of a woman’s life
baby • Low transfer & c-section rates • Covering board-certified obstetricians & specialists • Most insurances accepted,

Linda Perry, LM
including PCAP • Only free-standing birthing center in NYC • Well-woman care, gynecology & family planning • Skilled

midwives provide personal care • Low transfer & c-section rates • Postpartum home visits for mom & baby throughout

prenatal, labor & delivery • Covering board-certified obstetricians & specialists • Water birth available • Most insurances
Providing individualized holistic care for YOU
accepted, including PCAP • Only free-standing birthing center in NYC • Well-woman care, gynecology & family planning

• Skilled midwives provide personal care throughout prenatal, labor & delivery • Water birth available • Postpartum
Serving New York & New Jersey
home visits for mom & baby • Covering board-certified obstetricians & specialists • Low transfer & c-section rates • Most

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insurances accepted, including PCAP • Only free-standing birthing center in NYC • Water birth available • Well-woman NY: 646-536-3726 NJ: 973-226-2563
Brooklyn, NY 11229
care, gynecology & family planning • Skilled midwives provide personal care throughout prenatal, labor & delivery • Email: [email protected]
Postpartum home visits for718-376-6655
www.CompleteWomanMidwifery.com
mom & baby • Covering board-certified obstetricians & specialists • Low transfer & c-section

brooklynbirthingcenter.com
rates • Only free-standing birthing center in NYC • Well-woman care, • Most insurances accepted, including PCAP

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gynecology & family planning • Skilled midwives provide personal care throughout prenatal, labor & delivery • Water
Home Birth • Waterbirth • Well-woman Gynecology • Hormone Balancing
birth available • Covering board-certified obstetricians & specialists • Postpartum home visits for mom & baby • Low

84 The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org 85
Yoga, Labor Support &
Postpartum Services
For the Childbearing Year & Beyond

Gayle Lemke
www.gaylelemke.com

GentleSpirit
HOME BIRTH MIDWIFERY SERVICES

Committed to offering quality prenatal, labor,

home birth, and postpartum health care services
that are tailored to each women’s needs.

212-368-2229
gentlespiritbirth.com

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infant CPR, infant massage, doulas, physical therapy, Comfort Tools
acupuncture, chiropractic, energy healing and more! for Childbirth
The Shop at Full Circle has all your organic pregnancy and
breastfeeding needs. Custom nursing bra fittings by appointment. Supp�ting �e Ear� While Giving Bir�!
Full Circle Women’s Health www.globalbirthfair.com
EMAIL [email protected]  
1241 Mamaroneck Avenue - White Plains, NY 10605 • (914) 421-1500
(.5mile north of Hutch River North exit 23N) •
www.fullcirclewomenshealth.com 80 Oak Street, Suite 102 | Norwood, NJ 07648

86 The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org 87
in due season
homebirth

Comprehensive Holistic Prenatal Care

Family Centered Homebirth
In-Home Visits Offered

Jessica LawLor
homebirth midwife
973.875.6216 | 908.295.4444
newjerseyhomebirth.com

Julia Mannes
Birth and postpartum doula
Breastfeeding and babywearing support
Yoga, childbirth and parenting classes on the UWS

Feel confident and comfortable during your birth,

and help your family get off to a good start.

Doula Julia, cd(dona), clc, ryt, mother

917.216.1991 | [email protected]
www.juliamannes.com

88 The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org 89
www.MetroMinis.com

M ARY ESTHER M ALLOY-HOPWOOD MA, CCE, CD (DONA), CLC

THE BRADLEY METHOD OF NATURAL CHILDBIRTH
™k† “† [}u www.mindfulbirthny.com [email protected]

The Metropolitan
Doula Group
“
“ We believe every woman deserves to be treated with dignity
and respect, and we are committed to supporting women
regardless of their individual choices for labor and birth.

Find a labor support or

postpartum doula in NYC
metrodoula.com

90 The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org 91
We are looking for
a diverse cross-
section of women

Red Moon
to photograph
Are you for a nationwide
project about
pregnant and pregnant workers.
Massage & Childbirth working?
PARK SLOPE, BROOKLYN

PREGNANCY MASSAGE • BIRTH DOULA • CHILDBIRTH EDUCATION Pregnancy

in the american
Lena DeGloma, BA, LMT, CD • 609-576-7638 • www.redmoonmassagetherapy.com Contact us for details: Work Pl ace

www.showingproject.org    email: [email protected]

92 The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org 93
minimally invasive obstetrics
Elite and caring two-doctor practice,
freedom to move during labor, low
cesarean section rate, high VBAC success,
unhurried birth, doulas welcome, birth Thank you for ordering a copy of Choices
plan support, meditation, hypnosis, in Childbirth’s Guide to a Healthy Birth.
hydrotherapy, Mount Sinai Hospital,
parking near office and more!
Two Locations
At Choices in Childbirth, we believe that
VOB NORTH VOB SOUTH the birth of each child should be respected,
1225 Park Avenue @ 95th St. 101 West 12th Street
revered and made safe and healthy for mother
www.villageobstetrics.com • (212) 741-2229 (BABY )
and baby. Each day, the Choices in Childbirth
staff works toward a systemic change in U.S.
The renowned documentary, maternity care through education, outreach
The Business of Being and advocacy.
Born, has been modified into
a 30-minute Classroom Edition If you have found the contents of this guide
for universities, colleges,
useful, please consider a donation to Choices
and high schools. Choices in
Childbirth is leading the effort in Childbirth today. Individual contributions
to reach young adults before ensure that we can continue in our efforts
they confront birth decisions. to improve maternity care for all women and
We aim to create a generation of
help keep this guide free to the public.
people seeking systemic change
and new policies supporting
maternity care in the US.
Visit choicesinchildbirth.org/donate to make
your gift today. Thank you for your support!
Want to get involved?
Become a Regional Representative!
Choices in Childbirth is a 501(c)3 organization,
We are looking for students and committed volunteers to
help bring The Business of Being Born: Classroom Edition and your gift is tax-deductible to the fullest
into schools around the United States! extent of the law.
• Utilize local contacts to integrate new material into
university, college, and high school curricula. Be sure to check out our online Mother-
• Target professors, deans, librarians, and student groups in Friendly Provider Network for the most up-to-
Sociology, Anthropology, Health Policy, Women’s Studies,
American Studies, Nursing, and Public Health. date provider listings.
• Present The Business of Being Born: Classroom Edition to choicesinchildbirth.org/network
student groups, librarians, professors, and high schools to
cultivate interest in the program.

For more information or to purchase

The Business of Being Born: Classroom Edition,
please visit ClassroomBoBB.blogspot.com
or e-mail [email protected].

94 The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org 95
Visit choicesinchildbirth.org
to search for Mother-Friendly care providers in your area
who can work with you during your childbearing year!
441 Lexington Ave • 19th Floor • New York • 10017
212.983.4122 • choicesinchildbirth.org

96 The Guide to a Healthy Birth • choicesinchildbirth.org