FROM THE BLOG

Notes on birth, education, and the questions that come up most

Short, plainly-written pieces on the research, the practicalities, and the questions families bring to prenatal visits.

Baby resting on a bed
January 12, 2026

Considering an AROM? The Risks and the Questions Worth Asking First

Being asked to have your waters broken partway through labor is common, but it's still a decision, not just a step. Here's why it's offered, the real risks, and what to ask before you say yes.

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December 1, 2025

OB vs. Midwife: What's the Difference, and Which One Is Right for Your Birth?

OB or midwife? Both safely deliver babies, but they come from different models of care. Here's what the research shows about outcomes, how to think through the choice, and why you don't always have to pick one over the other.

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October 13, 2025

Does Insurance Cover Doulas? A California Guide

Medi-Cal and private insurance are increasingly covering doula care in California. Here's what expecting parents need to know about their options, including HSA and FSA workarounds.

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September 15, 2025

What Does a Doula Actually Do?

Doulas aren't midwives, and they aren't just for unmedicated births. Here's what doulas actually do: the physical, emotional, and informational support they provide before, during, and after birth, backed by research.

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August 25, 2025

Getting Your Partner Ready for Early Labor

Early labor is often the hardest part for a partner to know how to support. Here's what tends to help, and what usually doesn't.

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August 4, 2025

What the Six Healthy Birth Practices Really Mean from Lamaze

The Six Healthy Birth Practices show up everywhere in childbirth education. Here's what they actually ask of you, beyond the checklist.

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