Happy New Year!

2015 was a great year. But 2016 will be even better.

If 2016 means there will be an addition to your family, there is ample support and education available to help you enjoy this special time in your life.

Childbirth Education classes are offered once a month through Nantucket Cottage Hospital. This year we begin Wed. Jan. 6. These popular classes cover a comprehensive amount of information from the pre labor signs, stages of labor, natural pain coping techniques, medical interventions, the birth of your baby, and what to expect in the first hours postpartum. This series of 6 classes is designed especially for first time parents. For the remainder of 2016 classes through Nantucket Cottage Hospital generally begin the first week of every month and are held twice a week for three weeks. Please sign up here or through Nantucket Cottage Hospital by your 28 week of pregnancy. If you are interested in a private class, refresher class, or siblings class, please contact me directly.

Newborn Care Classes pick up where childbirth education classes leave off. This class is designed for expectant parents wether this is your first or fifth baby. We will discuss breastfeeding in depth, safe formula feeding, nighttime parenting and sleep, how to sooth a fussy baby using the 5 S’s, when to call the doctor, your changing relationships, and newborn care. This free class is run in conjunction with the Community School and through their generous assistance is offered at no cost, however registration is required. Classes are offered Jan. 26 and Feb.2 , March 29 and April 5, and May 24 and May 31. Please register through the Nantucket Community School. If you would prefer a private class to address your unique needs, please contact me directly.

Breastfeeding is natural, but that doesn’t always mean it’s easy. Private lactation consultations are available this year as is the ongoing support of La Leche League. In a private one on one consultation we can look at your concerns and develop a strategy to solve your breast-feeding concerns. La Leche League meetings are a free mother to mother support group on island. Meetings are offered on the third Thursday of every month in the Early Childhood Center now located at 128 Old South Rd. These meetings are a great way to meet and learn from other mothers and a trained, experienced leader, as well as gain valuable up to date information on the joys and overcoming the challenging of breastfeeding. Meetings are free and no registration is required. Come as you are and bring your baby. Whether you would benefit from private help or the advantages a group offers, there’s something for you.

A doula offers you information and support prenatally and during the birth of your baby. This is my 10th year as a doula and I have never been busier. That being said, I realize that each birth is unique and special and my commitment to an expectant mother is one I take seriously. The support I offer helps mothers feel informed, confident, and supported through the last weeks of pregnancy, birth, and early days postpartum. If you are interested in learning more about what a doula does, please feel free to contact me for a free introductory meeting.

Homebirth on Nantucket is thriving as well. 2015 brought my first Nantucket homebirth as a primary student under supervision. 2016 already has an expectant mom inquiring about services. I am currently working with an off island midwife, Sarafina Kennedy CPM, to offer comprehensive prenatal care, homebirth, and newborn care. In addition, I am planning on traveling to Better Birth Centers in Utah this fall for further clinical training and experience. If you are interested in midwifery care on Nantucket please contact me.

There is more in the works too so stay tuned!