An ongoing compilation of local and national resources on pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum and breastfeeding. Please feel free to recommend other additions, contact us.
Doulas
Research is clear: a doula or labor coach at your birth shortens labor time, decreases your perception of pain and yields births with less interventions (including c-sections). We can't list all our faves individually, but there are a few networks of doulas locally here in San Diego to help you in your search: Beautiful Beginnings (San Diego) Birth Resource Network—San Diego NBBirth Education Center has a doula matching service
Align 'em and Spin 'em
It starts with balance! How we move (and don't move) throughout our lifetimes has a profound impact on our pregnancies and birthing -- from discomforts to fetal positioning to ease of labor. Check out these very important resources that help you balance your body. Spinning Babies is changing the birth world! Regardless of your birth plans, this resource is a must read on easier birth with fetal positioning. Spinning Babies Belly Mapping Check out this resource that helps YOU determine more confidently which position your baby is in One Strong Mama is a movement resource that you need to check out! They are focused on helping you develop a functional core and movement patterns in pregnancy to minimize discomforts, promote a better birth and recovery.
Nutritious Movement Katy Bowman's blog on natural movement has a lot of resources for pregnancy, including squatting, diastasis rectii, etc.
Other Prenatal Massage Resources here in San Diego
Body Therapy Associates. Based in San Diego, Body Therapy Associates provides one of the most rigorous trainings in North America for massage therapists wanting to work with pregnant and postpartum women. Going Ga-Ga. Another prenatal Massage Therapist, Brenda Goodell. She’s amazing, smart and safe. Check her out!
Jamie Mossay Another prenatal Massage Therapist, Jamie is a treasure here in San Diego -- doula, Birthing from Within mentor and Spinning Babies Aware Practitioner and dedicated to pelvic health for all mamas.
Other San Diego Wellness Resources for Pregnancy and Postpartum
San Diego Birth Education Center
Nicole Morales, CPM Mamas & Milk San Diego Breastfeeding Center San Diego’s Postpartum Health Alliance Surface Prenatal Esthetics (facials!!) Family Matters for LGBTQ family configurations
Some Favorite Pregnancy Advocacy Organizations
Childbirth Connection International Cesarean Awareness Network (ICAN) VBAC.com
Childbirth Education Resources
Birthing from Within San Diego HypnoBirthing Childbirth and Postpartum Professional Association (CAPPA) The Childbirth Education Association (CEA)