the-transition-to-fatherhood-especially-for-dads-and-dads-to-be &laquo; WordPress.com Tag Feed http://en.wordpress.com/tag/the-transition-to-fatherhood-especially-for-dads-and-dads-to-be/ Feed of posts on WordPress.com tagged "the-transition-to-fatherhood-especially-for-dads-and-dads-to-be" Wed, 19 Jun 2013 01:54:16 +0000 http://en.wordpress.com/tags/ en <![CDATA[It is not the absence of fear is it the presence of courage by Julie Clarke]]> http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2012/01/05/it-is-not-the-absence-of-fear-is-it-the-presence-of-courage-by-julie-clarke/ Wed, 04 Jan 2012 22:00:12 +0000 julieclarketip http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2012/01/05/it-is-not-the-absence-of-fear-is-it-the-presence-of-courage-by-julie-clarke/ During my teenage and early adult years I was fascinated by biology and psychology, read a lot on those topics and selected courses that fed the yearning, which led me quite naturally towards becoming a childbirth and parenting educator.

For me, I think if I had done the nursing training; which until recently was required in Australia, prior to midwifery training I think it would have distorted me as a person and prevented me from growing in the direction I have.

Given some personal life experiences I’ve been through I have grown in a way that has increased my sensitivity, compassion, empathy and understanding of challenges and fears people face. Call it the university of life!

By drawing on what I’ve learned through difficult circumstances I am able to, without necessarily revealing my personal journey, share some gems of wisdom to really meet them where they are at in their pregnancy and talk with them in a philosophical way about the importance of courage and determination.

It is not the absence of fear is it the presence of courage, that pregnant, laboring, birthing and mothering women need to reach deeply within to draw out of themselves to use in their journey.

Determination is another quality that we women really specialize in, don’t we?

Whenever a woman becomes determined to do something, nothing stands in her way does it?

Think about that for a moment. It’s so true isn’t it?

Courage and determination are indeed important qualities for women.

Often when I am sharing these ideas someone will say, quite logically, “But what if something goes wrong?”
and then I, reply that we also need to be flexible and adaptable and women specialize in those qualities too – don’t they?

We women certainly are amazing!

We Can Do It! Strong Woman!

We Can Do It! Strong Woman!

]]> <![CDATA[A better future for maternity in Australia by Julie Clarke]]> http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2012/01/04/325/ Tue, 03 Jan 2012 22:00:58 +0000 julieclarketip http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2012/01/04/325/ Since the late 1980’s natural birth has grown in popularity and in availability in mainstream Australia, though our medical intervention rate has increased, which continues to create despair for many midwives, some obstetricians, childbirth educators and many informed motivated mothers-to-be and of course many mothers who have experienced medical intervention, especially if it were perceived to be unnecessary intervention.

Our statistics in Australia show that 1 in 10 women who experience a c.section are experiencing post natal depression. Such an unfortunate situation.

Optimistically, I see a better future for maternity in Australia, particularly as Kevin Rudd our previous Prime Minister is the son of a midwife, I am hoping he has an understanding of the current extreme medical dominance in Australia and is sympathetic to the cause of midwifery for our future birthing mother’s.

I do wonder if he will contest the leadership and try for re-election at the next election next year…hmmm stay tuned…

Nicola Roxon one of our federal ministers has recently had her first baby and is experiencing the phase of her life which is ideal to draw from to be able to compassionately review and improve the maternity services in Australia.

Julia Gillard our current Prime Minister is a good strong woman who hopefully will continue to create positive changes for health in Australia.

a better future for maternity in Australia

a better future for maternity in Australia

]]> <![CDATA[Julie Clarke determined to provide reassuring preparation for birth and baby care courses in Sydney Australia]]> http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2012/01/03/julie-clarke-determined-to-provide-reasurring-preparation-for-birth-and-baby-care-courses-in-sydney-australia/ Mon, 02 Jan 2012 22:00:44 +0000 julieclarketip http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2012/01/03/julie-clarke-determined-to-provide-reasurring-preparation-for-birth-and-baby-care-courses-in-sydney-australia/
Calmbirth and Transition into Parenthood courses for pregnant couples by Julie Clarke

Calmbirth and Transition into Parenthood courses for pregnant couples by Julie Clarke

It currently seems to me that pregnant women in our society are surrounded by negativity and this is only serving to raise their anxiety and depression during their pregnancy.

It is with this awareness that I have been passionate and driven to provide realistic, encouraging, uplifting, reassuring preparation for birth and baby courses for over 20 years.

I recall when I was pregnant that the majority of mother’s in my circle of friends and acquaintances had birthed on their backs with medical intervention regarded as an automatic thing “They just do to you” and “you just have to put up with it”.

That attitude was the underlying theme of BBQ folklore birth stories amongst friends on a Sunday afternoon.

Personally I was horrified at the attitude, but then relieved to discover the “sanctuary” of a natural birth center in Sydney and was fortunate enough to birth my first baby there, after a 16 hour drug and intervention free labor.
The endorphin hormone high I experienced bonded me to my baby in a way beyond imagination…

The pregnancy, birth and motherhood journey taught me a lot about stepping away from cultural norms and having courage and determination to aim for my own goals.

Julie Clarke determined to provide reasurring preparation for birth and baby care courses

Julie Clarke determined to provide reasurring preparation for birth and baby care courses

I was incredibly fortunate, when I reflect now, to have read the wonderful works of Sheila Kitzinger, Janet Balaskas and Ina May Gaskin who inspired me to birth my own babies naturally and then want to inspire others through teaching pre-natal classes.

]]> <![CDATA[A Poem: Birth and Bonding... imagine this experience...]]> http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2012/01/02/a-poem-birth-and-bonding-imagine-this-experience/ Sun, 01 Jan 2012 22:00:03 +0000 julieclarketip http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2012/01/02/a-poem-birth-and-bonding-imagine-this-experience/ Birth and Bonding

Experience this with me:

I’m a very little person,
I’m completely surrounded, supported, nourished,
Warmed, cushioned,
Swimming in a warm sea,
I am one with my mother,
At one with my newness,
Feeling, hearing a heart beating, blood rhythmically
Surging around me, feeling safe and warm,
There is movement, this way and that,
I am one with my mother’s feelings: I feel it too,
When she is angry, sad, loving, happy,
With my mother, I experience other people, hear their
Muted sounds, feel their touch,
I am very small, surrounded by a supporting,
Nourishing, vast loving universe.

As I steadily grow,
My limbs stretch and flex,
Against the soft boundaries of my world,
And my back is caressed.
Then gradually my space becomes crowded,
I curl up
I curl into a ball,
I feel confined, cramped,
I long to stretch,
To be free!
Then dawning joy,
Rhythmical pulsations press me,
And caress my skin,
Becoming stronger
As I start moving down a narrow tunnel.
Strong emotions and sensations
Surge through me.
It’s time to be born!
Time to leave the warm womb,
Time to experience my new life,
The strong pressure eases,
As I emerge -
I am free!

Gentle hands lift me onto
My mother’s smooth skin,
We lie belly to belly
I feel her warmth,
I hear again the familiar rhythm
Of her heartbeat.
I open my mouth
I cry once, then again,
As air fills my lungs
Then I breathe strongly.
Nuzzling her breast
My face pressed to her,
I find the nipple
Warm food flows into my mouth as I suckle.

Then I feel her stroking my Head
And body – my back, my limbs,
My cord is cut,
Ending links with the womb,
Yet I feel safe,
With our new bond already strong,
Our energies merge in a flow of love,
As we look at each other,
As I hear her voice,
And I respond to her touch,
Her smell, her taste.

Here close to mother
I feel safe, nourished, warm,
I belong,
I am.

Mum and Bub Beautiful Bonding

Mum and Bub Beautiful Bonding

]]> <![CDATA[Healthy newborns enter the world well hydrated and remain so if breastfed exclusively]]> http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2011/12/26/healthy-newborns-enter-the-world-well-hydrated-and-remain-so-if-breastfed-exclusively/ Mon, 26 Dec 2011 02:21:57 +0000 julieclarketip http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2011/12/26/healthy-newborns-enter-the-world-well-hydrated-and-remain-so-if-breastfed-exclusively/ Healthy newborns enter the world well hydrated and remain so if breastfed exclusively, day and night, even in the hottest, driest climates.

Healthy newborns enter the world well hydrated and remain so if breastfed exclusively

Healthy newborns enter the world well hydrated and remain so if breastfed exclusively


Nevertheless, the practice of giving infants water during the first six months-the recommended period for exclusive breastfeeding-persists in many parts of the world, with dire nutritional and health consequences.

This FAQ discusses these consequences and the role of breastfeeding in meeting an infant’s water requirements.

Why is exclusive breastfeeding recommended for the first six months?

International guidelines recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months based on scientific evidence of the benefits for infant survival, growth, and development.

Breastmilk provides all the energy and nutrients that an infant needs during the first six months.
Exclusive breastfeeding reduces infant deaths caused by common childhood illnesses such as diarrhea and pneumonia, hastens recovery during illness, and helps space births.

Is early supplementation with water a common practice? And if so, why?

The practice of giving water and other liquids such as teas, sugar water, and juices to breastfed infants in the first months is widespread throughout the world. This practice often begins in the first month of life.

Research conducted in the outskirts of Lima, Peru showed that 83 percent of infants received water and teas in the first month. Studies in several communities of the Gambia, the Philippines, Egypt, and Guatemala reported that over 60 percent of newborns were given sugar water and/or teas.

The reasons given for water supplementation of infants vary across cultures. Some of the most common reasons are:
* necessary for life
* quenches thirst
* relieves pain (from colic or earache)
* prevents and treats colds and constipation
* soothes fretfulness

Cultural and religious beliefs also influence water supplementation in early infancy.

Proverbs passed down from generation to generation advise mothers to give babies water.

Water may be viewed as the source of life-a spiritual and physiological necessity.

Some cultures regard the act of offering water to the newborn as a way of welcoming the child into the world.

The advice of health care providers also influences the use of water in many communities and hospitals. For example, a study in a Ghanaian city found that 93 percent of midwives thought that water should be given to all infants beginning on the first day of life.

In Egypt many nurses advised mothers to give sugar water after delivery.

How do breastfed babies get enough water?

Depending on temperature, humidity, and the infant’s weight and level of activity, the average daily fluid requirement for healthy infants ranges from 80-100 ml/kg in the first week of life to 140-160 ml/kg between 3-6 months.

These amounts are available from breastmilk alone if breastfeeding is exclusive and unrestricted (on-demand day and night) for two reasons:

Breastmilk is 88 percent water.

The water content of breastmilk consumed by an exclusively breastfed baby meets the water requirements for infants and provides a considerable margin of safety.

Even though a newborn gets little water in the thick yellowish first milk (colostrum), no additional water is necessary because a baby is born with extra water.

Milk with higher water content usually “comes in” by the third or fourth day.

Breastmilk is low in solutes.

One of the major functions of water is to flush out, through the urine, excess solutes.

Dissolved substances (for example, sodium, potassium, nitrogen, and chloride) are referred to as solutes.

The kidneys-though immature up to the age of approximately three months-are able to concentrate excess solutes in the urine to maintain a healthy, balanced body chemistry.

Because breastmilk is low in solutes, the infant does not need as much water as an older child or adult.

What about infants in hot, dry climates?

Water in breastmilk exceeds the infant’s water requirements in normal conditions and is adequate for breastfed infants in hot, dry climates.

Studies indicate that healthy, exclusively breastfed infants in the first six months of life do not require additional fluids even in countries with extremely high temperatures and low humidity.

Solute levels in the urine and blood of exclusively breastfed babies living in these conditions were within normal ranges, indicating adequate water intakes.

Can giving water to an infant before six months be harmful?

Offering water before the age of six months can pose significant health hazards.
Water supplementation increases the risk of malnutrition.

Displacing breastmilk with a fluid of little or no nutritional value can have a negative impact on an infant’s nutritional status, survival, growth, and development.

Consumption of even small amounts of water or other liquids can fill an infant’s stomach and reduce the baby’s appetite for nutrient-rich breastmilk.

Studies show that water supplementation before the age of six months can reduce breastmilk intake by up to 11 percent.

Glucose water supplementation in the first week of life has been associated with greater weight loss and longer hospital stays.

Water supplementation increases the risk of illness.

Water and feeding implements are vehicles for the introduction of pathogens.

Infants are at greater risk of exposure to diarrhea causing organisms, especially in environments with poor hygiene and sanitation.

In the least developed countries, two in five people lack access to safe drinking water.

Breastmilk ensures an infant’s access to an adequate and readily available supply of clean water.

Research in the Philippines confirms the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding and the harmful effect of early supplementation with non-nutritive liquids on diarrheal disease.

Depending on age, an infant was two to three times more likely to experience diarrhea if water, teas, and herbal preparations were fed in addition to breastmilk than if the infant was exclusively breastfed.
Should water be given to breastfed infants who have diarrhea?

In the case of mild diarrhea, increased frequency of breastfeeding is recommended.

When an infant has moderate to severe diarrhea, caregivers should immediately seek the advice of health workers and continue to breastfeed, as recommended in the Integrated Management of Childhood Illness (IMCI) guidelines.

Infants that appear dehydrated may require Oral Rehydration Therapy (ORT), which should only be given upon advice of a health worker.1 1 Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS), used in ORT, helps replace water and electrolytes lost during episodes of diarrhea. Super ORS, with a carbohydrate base of rice or cereal for better absorption, has been developed to improve treatment.

How can programs address the common practice of water supplementation?

To address the widespread practice of water supplementation in early infancy, program managers should understand the cultural reasons for this practice, analyze existing data, conduct household trials of improved practices, and develop effective communication strategies for targeted audiences.

Health care providers and community volunteers need to be informed that breast-milk meets the water requirements of an exclusively breastfed baby for the first six months.

They may also require training on how to communicate messages and negotiate behavior change.

Examples of messages developed in breastfeeding promotion programs that address local beliefs and attitudes about the water needs of infants.

Providing accurate information, tailoring messages to address the beliefs and concerns of different audiences, and negotiating with mothers to try out a new behavior can help establish exclusive breastfeeding as a new community norm.

Communicating the Message “Don’t Give Water”

The following messages have been used in programs to convince mothers, their families, and health workers that exclusively breastfed infants do not need to be given water in the first six months.

The most effective ways of communicating the messages depend on the audience and the practices, beliefs, concerns, and constraints to good practices in a particular setting.

Make clear the meaning of exclusive breastfeeding

* Exclusive breastfeeding means giving only breastmilk. This means no water, liquids, teas, herbal preparations, or foods through the first six months of life. (It is important to name the drinks and foods commonly given in the first six months. One program found that women did not think the advice “do not give water” applied to herbal teas or other fluids.) Take ideas often associated with water and apply them to colostrum

* Colostrum is the welcoming food for newborns. It is also the first immunization, protecting a baby from illness.

* Colostrum cleans the newborn’s stomach. Sugar water is not needed.

Explain why exclusively breastfed babies do not need water

* Breastmilk is 88 percent water.

* Every time a mother breastfeeds, she gives her baby water through her breastmilk.

* Breastmilk has everything a baby needs to quench thirst and satisfy hunger. It is the best possible food and drink that can be offered a baby so the baby will grow to be strong and healthy.

Point out the risks of giving water

* Giving water to babies can be harmful and cause diarrhea and illness. Breastmilk is clean and pure and protects against disease.

* An infant’s stomach is small. When the baby drinks water, there is less room left for the nourishing breastmilk that is necessary for the infant to grow strong and healthy.

* Link good breastfeeding practices to adequate fluid intake

* When a mother thinks her baby is thirsty, she should breastfeed immediately. This will give the baby all the water that is needed.

* The more often a woman breastfeeds, the more breastmilk is produced, which means more water for the baby.

http://rehydrate.org/breastfeed/faq-exclusive-breastfeeding.htm

Website http://www.linkagesproject.org/

Ask Dr Sears

In breastfed babies, not only is extra water unnecessary, giving bottles of water to quench baby’s thirst may also lessen the desire to breastfeed. This will interfere with the balance between mother’s milk supply and baby’s demand. Bottles of water are also likely to cause nipple confusion. A baby who is too warm or thirsty, but not hungry, can satisfy his need for more water by feeding more frequently and just enough to get the watery foremilk, but not necessarily the creamier hindmilk. Breastfeeding babies are great self-thirst-quenchers.

http://www.askdrsears.com/html/2/T023000.asp

]]> <![CDATA[homebirth as a safe and suitable option for low-risk normal healthy pregnant women by Julie Clarke]]> http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2011/12/26/homebirth-as-a-safe-and-suitable-option-for-low-risk-normal-healthy-pregnant-women-by-julie-clarke/ Mon, 26 Dec 2011 02:08:09 +0000 julieclarketip http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2011/12/26/homebirth-as-a-safe-and-suitable-option-for-low-risk-normal-healthy-pregnant-women-by-julie-clarke/ The New South Wales Dept of Health endorses homebirth as a safe and suitable option for low-risk normal healthy pregnant women who would prefer to remain in the safety, comfort and security of their own home with a qualified midwife who has provided her with maternity care throughout her pregnancy according to the current midwifery guidelines. Public hospital across New South Wales are commencing midwifery based homebirth care for low-risk healthy women.

Homebirth as a wonderful, safe, satisfying option for mothers-to-be

Homebirth as a wonderful, safe, satisfying option for mothers-to-be

In the unlikely event of a complication or need to transfer to hospital the services have liaised with the NSW Ambulance service to ensure efficiency, sensitivity and safety.
St George hospital at Kogarah in Sydney already has a program available for women via the birth center service, Royal Hospital for Women at Randwick, in Sydney will roll out a similar program over 2012, with many more Public Hospitals set to follow.

On homebirth, well known Aussie actor Noni Hazlehurst was quoted as saying:
“My proudest achievement is having two homebirths. I had Charlie when I was 35 and William at 40, at home in the Blue Mountains. Natural birth is the most extraordinary thing. You feel so powerful.”

Midwifery Care for Homebirth

The general standard guidelines are as follows, although details of this care will be negotiated between the midwife and her client.

These guidelines are usually recognized as a minimum standard of care for homebirth.
Recommended Standard of Midwifery Care

Homebirth midwives work autonomously and accept clients from a wide range of backgrounds. They are Primary Care Providers and their service includes:

Antenatal: Visits monthly until 28 weeks of pregnancy, fortnightly until 36 weeks, then weekly until birth or twice weekly if late for dates.

Birth: The midwife attends at a stage of labour mutually agreed to between her client and herself or when active labour is established. She continues to attend throughout active labour and delivery of the baby.

She stays with her client for a minimum of 1 hour after birth, or until she is satisfied with the condition and comfort of her client and baby.

If a transfer to hospital is necessary at any stage, the midwife will, at the client’s discretion, accompany her to hospital, where she will be available to provide information and support.

Postnatal Visits: Daily for 4 days, then every second day until 10 days after the birth. Subsequent visits at 14 days, 28 days and a 6 week postnatal check.

Home Visits: The initial visit is recommended to be at the midwife’s home or office and each antenatal visit weekly from 37 weeks are conducted in the client’s home. All postnatal visits are usually in the client’s home.

On Call: The midwife usually makes herself available for consultation 24 hours a day during the period of care, unless otherwise agreed to with her client at the onset of care.

Homebirth as a wonderful, safe, satisfying option for mothers-to-be

Homebirth as a wonderful, safe, satisfying option for mothers-to-be

Back-Up Midwife: When the midwife is unavailable either for consultation or to attend her client, usually the midwife will call in an experienced homebirth midwife of her client’s choice where possible to replace her.

Cost: Could be covered by Medicare if the service is provided within a hospital based program or if contracting an independent midwife, approx $5,000 to $10,000 is expected, the schedule of fees can sometimes be negotiated, and now the midwives have medicare provider numbers claims are processed to reduce the cost to the health consumer considerably.

For further information, please contact a midwife directly, via the http://www.homebirthsydney.org.au website.

]]> <![CDATA[The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding.]]> http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2011/12/23/the-american-academy-of-pediatrics-recommends-breastfeeding/ Fri, 23 Dec 2011 11:35:46 +0000 julieclarketip http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2011/12/23/the-american-academy-of-pediatrics-recommends-breastfeeding/ American Academy of Pediatrics

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding. According to the AAP, “Human milk is species-specific, and all substitute feeding preparations differ markedly from it, making human milk uniquely superior for infant feeding.

Exclusive breastfeeding is the reference or normative model against which all alternative feeding methods must be measured with regard to growth, health, development, and all other short- and long-term outcomes.

In addition, human milk-fed premature infants receive significant benefits with respect to host protection and improved developmental outcomes compared with formula-fed premature infants… Pediatricians and parents should be aware that exclusive breastfeeding is sufficient to support optimal growth and development for approximately the first 6 months of life and provides continuing protection against diarrhea and respiratory tract infection.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding.

Breastfeeding should be continued for at least the first year of life and beyond for as long as mutually desired by mother and child.”
A.A.P. Breastfeeding Policy Statement: Breastfeeding and the Use of Human Milk Pediatrics Vol. 115 No. 2 February 2005

http://aappolicy.aappublications.org/cgi/content/full/pediatrics;115/2/496

]]> <![CDATA[Transition into Parenthood: Best value and most comprehensive courses in Sydney Australia]]> http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2011/12/23/transition-into-parenthood-best-value-and-most-comprehensive-courses-in-sydney-australia/ Fri, 23 Dec 2011 11:28:46 +0000 julieclarketip http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2011/12/23/transition-into-parenthood-best-value-and-most-comprehensive-courses-in-sydney-australia/ Childbirth and Parenting Two Saturday Condensed Course

Two excellent sessions on consecutive Saturdays from 9am to 4pm. This course covers far more than the usual standard hospital class. On the first Saturday, we spend the full day covering pregnancy, labor, active birth options. How to recognize labor, what to do in response, great tips for partners to be supportive and helpful, comfort measures to use during labor, partner’s role and what to expect, women’s self-help strategies for labor and much more. On the second Saturday, our focus is the newborn period, the first 12 weeks at home with a new baby, how to wrap, feed, settle, sleep and much more. The extensive course notes are provided at the course for your continued future reference

Childbirth and Parenting One-day Super Condensed Sunday Workshop

Sunday from 9am to 4:30pm This course covers “everything possible to cover” in just one day and is very popular.
This super condensed course is very quick and convenient course as it only involves attendance for one day, starting at 9am and finishing at 4.30pm. It is the most time efficient course available anywhere, covering: Pregnancy, Labor and Birth in the morning, and then Baby care and Parenting during the newborn period, the first twelve weeks, in the afternoon. This course is brilliantly designed for shift workers, very busy couples, particularly those who are very busy with their own business to run and can’t spare much time at a course.

This course is also terrific for couples who are wanting to refresh their knowledge, having already had a baby, and now needing to prepare for their second, third, fourth or subsequent baby.

Course materials are made freely available as part of the super-condensed package, as well as unlimited variety of teas and coffees, delicious snacks and full comprehensive course notes.
Julie normally only runs this one day super condensed course once a month or once every two months, so if it’s what you’re after be sure to book in as quickly as you can to secure your position. There are limited places in each course. BYO lunch, be reassured that refrigeration and a microwave are available for your use. Very comfortable air-conditioned venue.

Transition into Parenthood: Best value and most comprehensive courses in Sydney Australia

Transition into Parenthood: Best value and most comprehensive courses in Sydney Australia

calmbirth® Course

This brilliant, empowering and beautiful course imparts the knowledge of birth preparation techniques such as: calm focused breathing, relaxation, positive imagery, attitudes/expectancy and safe, natural strategies for reducing medical intervention to achieve a rewarding, easier, more comfortable stress-free birthing experience.

calmbirth® class book and CD by (midwife) Peter Jackson are made available at the first session, to take home for your own reference and continued practice.

Book this course together with the one-day or two-day workshop of birth and baby care for the best preparation for parenting.

Options to choose from for course times:

two Saturday daytime (9.00am to 3.30pm) – only $350 per couple
Saturday/Sunday special weekend (9.00am to 3.30pm) – only $350 per couple
two Sunday daytime (9.00am to 3.30pm) sessions – only $350 per couple
two daytime week day sessions (9.00am to 3.30pm) to suit school mums and shift workers
refreshers attend session 2 of the week day course at %50 off the fee

Book securely online now with your credit card. Pre-payment is required to secure your place in any of the courses.

]]> <![CDATA[Pregnancy: Preparing for birth and beyond by Julie Clarke Sydney Australia]]> http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2011/12/23/247/ Fri, 23 Dec 2011 11:18:37 +0000 julieclarketip http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2011/12/23/247/ Julie frequently hears from the dads-to-be attending the courses that, “I just don’t want to be useless to my partner during the labor and the birth, but I don’t know what to do!”

Julie responds with many ideas and suggestions throughout the course, and she always recommend couples pick and choose what suits them best, as there are a wonderful variety of choices available to be able to create your own positive and memorable birth experience.

Underpinning all of her work in the courses is the philosophy of calmbirth® training, and that is encouraging, supporting and guiding family bonding between a couple as they prepare for the birth of their baby. To focus on the role and the value of each parent, the importance of mothers, and equally the importance of fathers in the life of their unborn and newborn baby.

With this in mind, by encouraging enjoyment rather than stress and fear during the period of the pregnancy and birth, creates the space for a more conducive atmosphere for good solid family bonding.

Relaxation, joy, hope, courage, determination, togetherness creates good strong loving relationships. In a nutshell that’s what it’s all about.

The Birth and Baby Care course covers birth and baby care aspects in a very practical way, whilst the calmbirth® course guides the “thinking and feeling” preparation, and focuses on the important skills for labor.
Generally couples prefer to do both courses for the most complete preparation for labor and confidence in baby care.

Whatever steps you take towards childbirth, look for the things that both inform and nurture both of you in your transition to parenthood.

It’s Julie’s passion to create an uplifting, positive, learning environment for new parents.

Pregnancy: Relaxation, Joy, Hope, Pre-natal Bonding... by Julie Clarke

Pregnancy: Relaxation, Joy, Hope, Pre-natal Bonding... by Julie Clarke

Telephone to talk to her now: Julie Clarke 9544 6441

]]> <![CDATA[The Passage to Parenthood is a Unique Journey, it can be wonderful... by Julie Clarke]]> http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2011/12/23/the-passage-to-parenthood-is-a-unique-journey-it-can-be-wonderful-by-julie-clarke/ Fri, 23 Dec 2011 11:11:43 +0000 julieclarketip http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2011/12/23/the-passage-to-parenthood-is-a-unique-journey-it-can-be-wonderful-by-julie-clarke/ Most parents agree there is a mix of experiences as they move through the series of changes which is the rite of passage to parenthood – during pre-conception, pregnancy, labor, birth and the newborn period.

The Passage to Parenthood is a Unique Journey, it can be wonderful... by Julie Clarke

The Passage to Parenthood is a Unique Journey, it can be wonderful... by Julie Clarke

The journey is unique of course for each person who goes through it, but most people would like to find a good supportive positive source of information and help.

The transition into parenthood is filled with wonderful, exciting memories, as well as some anxiety and perhaps stress.

Do you friends and work colleagues provide lots of useful and helpful insights?

Maybe not as much as you’d like…

Are you searching for some up-to-date and balanced information?

It seems the wisest advice when contemplating the journey to parenthood is to attend informative courses, to read widely, ask plenty of questions, listen to as many friends stories as possible, and then, with an open informed mind, make decisions based on your intuition as to what seems right for you and your set of circumstances.

Keep in mind you are not having your friends experiences over again, your experience is not a re-run of theirs, so approach your turn completely fresh and new with a positive mindset and look forward to the possibilities that lie ahead.

“I just don’t want to be useless to my partner during the labor and the birth, but I don’t know what to do!”

]]> <![CDATA[Pregnancy: Thrush, Monillia and Candida Albicans: fungal vaginal infection by Julie Clarke]]> http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2011/12/23/pregnancy-thrush-monillia-and-candida-albicans-fungal-vaginal-infection-by-julie-clarke/ Fri, 23 Dec 2011 11:04:41 +0000 julieclarketip http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2011/12/23/pregnancy-thrush-monillia-and-candida-albicans-fungal-vaginal-infection-by-julie-clarke/ Thrush, Monillia and Candida Albicans: fungal vaginal infection

Caused by the fungus candida Albicans, a normal part of the body’s flora and fauna, but pregnancy can cause it to overpopulate, due to the increase hormones which create favorable conditions for the fungus to thrive, particularly around warm moist areas of the body, typically around the vaginal vulval region and for some large breasted women around between their breasts and under their breasts.

This is not dangerous or serious but certainly should be brought to the attention of a midwife or doctor and treated appropriately.

During the first year of life it is not uncommon for a baby to develop thrush orally, which would appear as a red irritated area inside the baby’s mouth, either on the roof or inside the cheeks, a more advanced case of thrush would be seen with white spots inside the baby’s mouth inside the cheeks or over the tongue accompanied with a creamy appearance.

It is important to treat the baby and not ignore suspicions of thrush either manifesting in the baby’s mouth or as a nappy rash as it is quite uncomfortable and distressing for a baby.

Take the baby to the Early Childhood Health Center Nurse, your doctor or the Pharmacist for advice on how best to treat and clear up thrush.

An advanced case of thrush in the baby’s mouth can lead onto thrush in the woman’s breasts during breastfeeding which can be treated quickly and easily with the advice of a qualified breastfeeding counselor by the Australia’s Breastfeeding Association by telephoning in New South Wales Australia 1800 mum 2 mum

Eat yogurt containing acidophilus, helps restore the balance of flora

Avoid sugars and yeasts as these promote growth of the candida fungus

Yeast containing foods are fermented such as wines, Vegemite, donuts, breads, some cheeses

Vitamin C and Echinacea help boost the immune system, and garlic is an anti-fungal herb

Apply natural yogurt externally at night before going to bed

Vitamin E oil applied to sore skin can help relieve the itch

Consult the Pharmacist, Health Food Shop, Naturopath, and Doctor

The above are natural treatments and simple strategies which may help ease the discomfort of common problems in pregnancy, use as a guide only and seek advice from your naturopath, midwife or doctor regarding amounts and frequency of use. If any of these symptoms persist tell your midwife or doctor.

Pregnancy: Thrush, a common fungal infection... easily treated. by Julie Clarke

Pregnancy: Thrush, a common fungal infection... easily treated. by Julie Clarke

]]> <![CDATA[Morning Sickness or all day sickness Nausea and Vomiting by Julie Clarke]]> http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2011/12/23/morning-sickness-or-all-day-sickness-nausea-and-vomiting-by-julie-clarke/ Fri, 23 Dec 2011 10:57:06 +0000 julieclarketip http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2011/12/23/morning-sickness-or-all-day-sickness-nausea-and-vomiting-by-julie-clarke/ Morning Sickness or all day sickness Nausea and Vomiting

It is quite common and normal to have an upset stomach or throw up during the first three months of pregnancy.

Many women describe this as feeling like having the ‘flu and a hangover all wrapped into one and is referred to as morning sickness, though many women complain that it is really all-day sickness.

It will vary from person to person, some describing it as quite mild and just the occasional wave of nausea and others requiring hospitalization for the much less common, very severe form referred to as Hyperemisis, which might require a drip inserted into the back of the arm for the severely dehydrated pregnant woman.

Usually occurs between the 6th and 12th weeks, but can persist for much longer.

Here are some things to try, see what works for you:

Hunger seems to be a common cause of morning sickness, try to avoid actually getting hungry by having some healthy snacks wherever you are, in the drawer of your desk at the office, in the glove box of the car, beside your bed, and where ever you sit and rest

Eat protein-rich foods such as eggs, cheese, chicken, and other meats

Eat foods high in folate such as beans, almonds, broccoli, meat and muesli

Smell or eat sliced lemon

get some fresh air, when you cook, open windows or use a fan to get rid of odors

It won’t take long and you’ll soon discover for yourself, what your most suitable routine is for food, whether you need to eat before getting out of bed, the size of meals and how frequently you need to have them,

Get plenty of rest

Tiredness and exhaustion is the other common trigger for morning sickness, and many women feel quite “wiped out” during the first trimester of their pregnancy, so it is important to be mindful to relax, rest and conserve your energy, be reassured that for most women this feeling will lift around 12 weeks of pregnancy which will bring a welcome relief and really lift the spirits, women then find they are happier, energized and content

Eat a piece of bread or salty biscuits or plain water crackers before getting out of bed in the morning, keep them in a sealed container next to the bed along with a bottle of water so they are available easily, without having to go to the kitchen and prepare anything,

Avoid eating greasy, hard to digest, fatty foods or spicy foods that bother you

Drink ginger tea, eat ginger in any form as it seems to be the magic ingredient for travel sickness and morning sickness, I sincerely hope it does the trick for you

Wear acupressure (sea-sickness band) bands provided by a qualified Acupuncturist

Use an aromatherapy oil vaporizer; dilute 2 drops of ginger and 3 drops of spearmint oil in water, or put the same amount onto a tissue and sniff during the day

Go for an invigorating walk in the fresh air and sunshine

Massage can help promote circulation and most importantly, relaxation. It can increase circulation to all organs of the body and good circulation to all organs of the body and good circulation helps avoid a lot of problems in pregnancy.

Lemon Myrtle is a fresh citrus scent which may help lift you out of morning sickness

Lemon Myrtle is a fresh citrus scent which may help lift you out of morning sickness

]]> <![CDATA[Pregnancy: Leg Cramps in the calf muscles and feet, by Julie Clarke]]> http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2011/12/23/pregnancy-leg-cramps-in-the-calf-muscles-and-feet-by-julie-clarke/ Fri, 23 Dec 2011 10:49:02 +0000 julieclarketip http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2011/12/23/pregnancy-leg-cramps-in-the-calf-muscles-and-feet-by-julie-clarke/ Pregnancy: Leg Cramps in the calf muscles and feet

Cramps occur as sudden muscle spasms and tightens in the calf muscles of the legs, and in the arch of the foot and can be quite painful for pregnant women.

Some experts say it is caused by an imbalance of the calcium/phosphorous/magnesium ratio in the body and many pregnant women do find their cramps disappear after they commence taking a good quality calcium supplement.

Cramps are also caused by when the enlarged pregnant uterus exerts pressure on pelvic blood vessels, impairing circulation, and on nerves supplying the lower extremities.

Increase intake of calcium rich foods such as canned fish with bones for example canned salmon with the bones left in as they are an excellent source of calcium, if the bones bother you just crush them up with a fork and then you won’t notice them, kelp, dairy products such as yoghurt, cheese, milk which is calcium enriched, sesame and sunflower seeds, tahini paste or spread, particularly the dark colored tahini as this has far more calcium than the light colored tahini and plenty of dark green vegetables, such as nettle leaves as salad, delicious broccoli heads, leaves, and stems, as well as baby bok choy and the vast array of lovely Chinese leafy vegetables are all a good source of calcium.

Nutritionists advise that the consumption of caffeine drinks and carbonated drinks, such as Cola, “spend” calcium from the human body as they are being metabolized in the intestinal tract, so they are best avoided where possible.

Drink nettle tea and raspberry leaf tea for calcium

Interestingly, many women find that by taking calcium and magnesium supplements they are able to completely rid themselves of cramps, inevitably they sometimes forget or run out of tablets and the cramps return, so it turns into something of a science experiment for them as they “prove” the calcium vs cramps theory.

When pregnant women return to their calcium supplements again they usually find within about 4 days or so their cramps are gone again… big relief!

When a foot or leg cramp occurs, sit on the floor, straighten your legs and point your toes up, massage your leg gently, when you can, get up and walk around.

Refer to the New Active Birth Book by Janet Balaskas for suitable stretches and remedies for cramps.

Have a hot foot bath containing 10 drops of lavender oil before bed

Put a towel soaked in hot water and then rung out well, as a hot compress on the sore sensitive cramp affected area, or use a hot water bottle or wheat heat bag to ease and relax the cramped muscles to assist them to release and relax.

Have regular leg massages either from your partner or from a qualified pregnancy massage therapist.

Pregnancy, a time of nurturing

Pregnancy, a time of nurturing

Pregnancy, a time of nurturing

Pregnancy, a time of nurturing

]]> <![CDATA[Pregnancy: Constipation, a common challenge to deal with...by Julie Clarke]]> http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2011/12/23/pregnancy-constipation-a-common-challenge-to-deal-with-by-julie-clarke/ Fri, 23 Dec 2011 10:37:38 +0000 julieclarketip http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2011/12/23/pregnancy-constipation-a-common-challenge-to-deal-with-by-julie-clarke/ Pregnancy: Constipation, a common challenge to deal with…

Constipation is the term applied to painful bowel movements, which might be caused by slow, dry, hard stools to pass.

Commonly this is related to a lack of fluids particularly water intake for the woman and also clearly linked to the types of foods she is eating usually white starch, simple carbohydrates, such as white bread, pasta, cakes, biscuits and pastries.

An example would be toast or muffin for breakfast, white sandwich at lunch or burger with fries, and then at dinner; pizza, pasta, white rice and potato dishes would be a very quick way to create constipation.

Bowel function also slows down during pregnancy to allow for the maximum absorption of nutrients from foods to benefit the mother and baby, however, it can be more extreme in the last 3 months as the growing baby puts pressure on the bowel.

Improve your diet to include more fiber-rich foods, such as delicious fresh fruit and vegetables, oats and whole grains.

Increase drinking more water and juices, minimize tea and avoid coffee

Carbonated, fizzy drinks such as Cola are very likely to create a lot of wind bowel pain for the pregnant woman and are best avoided.

The need to pass wind and constipation often are associated complaints women experience during pregnancy

Eat prunes, dates, stone fruits, high fiber foods such as avocado, bananas, pears and almonds and drink prune juice

Increase exercise to stimulate bowel movements, take a walk for about a half an hour everyday, swimming, Pilates, belly dancing and yoga are very beneficial as well,

Respond to the signals from your body when you get the message to open your bowels, go to the toilet without delay. It is so common that women will put it off because they are too busy and then the feeling passes and they have difficulty later.

When taking an iron supplement choose an organic one, often described as pre-chelated or pre-digested as the regular variety can often cause constipation – many women complain of this as the synthetic iron is not easily absorbed so most of it is excreted, which turns the poo black and sticky, leading onto constipation and hemorrhoids, a very unpleasant experience, which might have been avoided with better quality iron tablets. Refer to the health food shop, your qualified naturopath or midwife or doctor for guidance and advice,

Drink 2 teaspoons of psyllium seeds in water in the morning, and 1 cup of rhubarb root tea at night

When sitting on the toilet relax and don’t rush, if you are uncomfortable and the toilet is too tall for you, then rest your feet on a small foot stool and this will assist the angle of your pelvis, facilitating a more effective evacuation of the bowels with less straining, particularly in the rectal and anal area

Pregnant woman resting and relaxing

Pregnant woman resting and relaxing

Check with your midwife, pharmacist or doctor with regard to taking any laxatives as they are not generally considered safe for use during pregnancy, others, like Metamucil, are gentle and safe and use fiber to help loosen bowels. These are okay to use.

Pregnant women enjoying a healthy lunch with plenty of fruit

Pregnant women enjoying a healthy lunch with plenty of fruit

]]> <![CDATA[“Was your father at your birth?” by Julie Clarke]]> http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2011/12/23/was-your-father-at-your-birth/ Thu, 22 Dec 2011 23:07:03 +0000 julieclarketip http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2011/12/23/was-your-father-at-your-birth/ Many men currently expecting their first child when asked, “Was your father at your birth?” reply emphatically “No!”, and for the rare one who says “Yes!” they usually haven’t had much of a description from their father as to what occurred – you could say for previous generations it’s all a bit of a blank… maybe he was at work, or at the bar, or out in the waiting room, not allowed into the birth room… perhaps he was in the room but ordered to stand at the head end! How ridiculous! It’s important to know everything has changed… for the better…
Dads involved in receiving their baby at birth - Transition into Parenthood Courses - Sydney

Dads involved in receiving their baby at birth - Transition into Parenthood Courses - Sydney

Was your father at your birth?

Most grown men these days have been taught by their fathers how to mow the lawn, how to change a tire on the car, how to BBQ steak and sausages, but can’t confidently turn to their Dad and ask expectantly,
“Dad. How do you support a woman during labor?”
It’s a question that might possibly turn up a blank.

However, for the next generation of fathers, the birth experience will be completely different.

The vast majority of dads-to-be will be able to say

“Ah well you’re asking me something that takes me back to one of the most incredible days of your mum’s and my life…on the day you were born and, by the way, because you were our first, it was a bit of a long day and night actually, we spent hours in the shower with me rubbing your mum’s back for comfort, and then she decided to rest her legs as they were getting tired, so she laid in the bath under the midwife’s instruction and then next thing she pushed you out in the bath, it was the most incredible thing I’ve ever seen in my life, truly it was like witnessing a miracle!

“…And then all of a sudden I remembered from our birth classes that if I wanted to receive the baby, and be the first person to hold you, to mention it to the midwife, which I did, and so she guided me easily into how to receive you. It was amazing I have never felt anything so soft and vulnerable in my life!
I’ll never forget it, I looked up at your mum and she had tears in her beautiful eyes, and she was crying and I passed you up to her arms and she held you gently and quietly talked to you and cuddled you for a long time. Son, I hope you have an experience as wonderful as that when you meet your first child for the first time. It’s a memory your mother and I cherish together, and always will.”

Preparing dads for birth and fatherhood...Transition into Parenthood Courses

Preparing dads for birth and fatherhood...Transition into Parenthood Courses

]]> <![CDATA[Discover the calmbirth Technique by Julie Clarke]]> http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2011/12/21/151/ Wed, 21 Dec 2011 11:13:21 +0000 julieclarketip http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2011/12/21/151/ Discover the calmbirth technique

Julie Clarke of Sylvania has been thoroughly trained by Peter Jackson to facilitate the Calmbirth courses in Sydney. Julie has been recently recognized as one of the most advanced and experienced Calmbirth practitioners.

Course Materials the new updated revised version of the calmbirth booklet and CD

Course Materials the new updated revised version of the calmbirth booklet and CD

Julie offers options for couples and is clearly very enthusiastic, caring, positive, motivating, gentle, and empowering facilitator to pregnant couples.
all available dates listed here

What is labor going to be like? How long will it take? They are the questions that weigh heavily on a pregnant woman’s mind.

Most of us get our impressions of childbirth from Hollywood movies or the horror stories of family and friends, and while the outcome is usually good, the journey to get there seems long and dramatic. And hurts – a lot!
But it doesn’t have to be that way.

More and more Australian couples are signing up to learn Calmbirth – a series of relaxation techniques designed to allow them to take control of their experience and make it something to look forward to, rather than fear.

Calm mother - calm baby

Calm mother - calm baby

What is Calmbirth?

Calmbirth is an antenatal education program developed to assist couples aiming for a natural birth. It’s based on the belief that severe pain is not a natural accompaniment to labor and if a woman is both mentally and physically prepared, her birth experience can be rewarding, comfortable and empowering.

Peter Jackson, founder of Calmbirth in Australia, says the techniques are based on the work of the late English
obstetrician Grantly Dick-Reid (author of Childbirth Without Fear 1956), the pioneer of natural childbirth.
In his research, Dr Dick-Reid observed that some women were frightened of birth and had difficulty coping with labor and birth, whereas other women who were not frightened or were better prepared and had an understanding of what was happening, coped quite well.

Childbirth Without Fear by Dr Grantley Dick-Read

Childbirth Without Fear by Dr Grantley Dick-Read

“Calmbirth promotes the use of the subconscious resources of deep relaxation which centre around the normal physiological relaxation responses within the body,” says Mr Jackson.
Calmbirth is not the Australian version of hypnobirthing. Hypnobirthing teaches couples self hypnosis methods while calmbirth is a number of special relaxation techniques.

How does it work?

Calmbirth teaches you how to enter a totally relaxed state, similar to when you daydream or become absorbed in a good book or movie. It is then used in the last few weeks or months of pregnancy and particularly throughout labour and the birthing process. The techniques can also be used any time calm focus is required when caring for your newborn.

The program, usually taught over a number of days or a weekend, encourages an understanding of how the female body works to deliver a baby and the way fear can impede labour. Couples also learn how to use tools of relaxation, visualisation, positive imagery and light-touch massage to help prepare for labour and during labour itself. “Calm breathing” (deep, regular breaths) is important aspect to a calmbirth technique.

The program is lead by a registered calmbirth practitioner and taught through classes, CDs and books. There are more than 60 calmbirth practitioners available throughout NSW, Queensland, Victoria, Tasmania and New Zealand.

“People leave the classes with a greater understanding of the birth process, confidence in their own ability to work with the birth process and excitement about their approaching birth,” says Mr Jackson. After completing the program, the couple then practise regularly, at home, right up until the labour.

The aim of the calmbirth techniques is to have the labouring woman alert but deeply relaxed. It is this ability to relax that enables the pelvic muscles to open and allow the baby to birth more comfortably and easily. “Anyone can do it,” says Sydney and calmbirth practitioner Julie Clarke. “Although I’ve had some women or partners that really struggle with letting go and relaxing, but with enough support and personal determination they overcome their concerns and eventually learn to enjoy relaxing along with the others.”

Calmbirth is totally safe, she adds. “Being calm and relaxed cannot possibly do any harm. It reduces adrenaline – triggered by fear – in the mother’s system, which helps to maintain the normal labouring hormone oxytocin and keeps the labour progressing well.” It also reduces stress which keeps the maternal blood pressure normal.
Calm breathing maintains good levels of oxygen to both the mother’s and the baby’s system, and, by relying on their own inner resources, the women are less likely to need medication which increases the baby’s health and wellbeing after the birth. The baby is then likely to respond with strong reflexes and commence breastfeeding without delay or problems.

calmbirth logo

calmbirth logo

The language of labour

Language can really influence a woman’s perception of their experience both before and during the labour. The word “contractions” when spoken to a pregnant woman can be frightening and immediately thought of as “pain”.

Calmbirth couples are taught to think of contractions as “surges” or “waves” and to interpret birthing sensations as pressure, stretching or numbness rather than associate the feelings with pain.
“Attitude makes an enormous difference to our experiences and if we go into birth with very negative expectations, taken from horror stories, movies we’ve seen, articles we’ve read it will certainly influence the outcome,” says Ms Clarke. “What is thought psychologically will influence the physical bodily reactions – such as the release of hormones – and will influence the labour.”
Visualising also helps the woman imagine her growing baby and the impending birth and during labour imagining the contractions as waves coming into shore, or the dilation of the cervix as an opening flower are common themes.
So, is it for you?

Calmbirthing is suitable for all pregnant women – from first-time mums to mothers having their second or subsequent babies – and their partners who would like to have a positive birth experience, in a calm, relaxed way free of fear and stress.

Ms Clarke, who has witnessed many “calmbirths”, says the women are serene and relaxed when using the technique. “Many are amazed at how focussed and self-directed they are,” she says. “Their partners often comment, after the birth, on how focussed her breathing was during the “waves”, too.”

Calmbirth uses the logic that preparing for a wonderful birth experience can help achieve it, although no amount of preparation can guarantee a perfect labour or the need for medical intervention.
“It helps couples see labour as a natural process, something that a woman’s body is designed to achieve, not simply an ordeal which must be suffered as a means to an end,” says Sydney lawyer Claire Whitehead, who learned calmbirth for the birth of her first child. “And it’s not about making women think they have failed if things do not go to plan.”

The partner’s role

While the labouring woman is intently focussed on her breathing, the partner is aware to minimise distractions and any disturbance that might alter her focus and is supportive of her wishes.
Underpinning the calmbirth course is the philosophy of encouraging, supporting and guiding family bonding between a couple as they prepare for the birth of their baby, says Ms Clarke. “It focuses on the role of the value of each parent, the importance of mothers and equally important fathers in the life of their unborn and newborn baby. Relaxation, joy, hope, courage, determination and togetherness create good strong and loving relationships. In a nutshell, that’s what calmbirth is all about.”

For more information

For more information about Julie’s calmbirth course in Sylvania, Sydney, call Julie direct land line (02) 9544 6441 or personal mobile 0401 265 530

]]> <![CDATA[Differences between HypnoBirthing and calmbirth courses 2012 Australia]]> http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2011/12/21/differences-between-hypnobirthing-and-calmbirth-courses-2012-australia/ Wed, 21 Dec 2011 10:17:25 +0000 julieclarketip http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2011/12/21/differences-between-hypnobirthing-and-calmbirth-courses-2012-australia/ Common Questions and Myths About calmbirth®

1. We don’t need to teach breathing, women know how to breathe.

True. But science suggests that conscious, controlled breathing alters the chemicals in the body in a positive way. Candice Pert explains it this way in her book “Molecules of Emotion”

“The techniques employed by both the yogi and the woman in labor are extremely powerful. There is a wealth of data showing that changes in the rate and depth of breathing produce changes in the quantity and kind of peptides that are released from the brain stem and since many of these peptides are endorphins, the body’s natural opiates as well as other pain relieving substances you soon achieve a reduction of pain. So it is no wonder that so many modalities both ancient and new have discovered the power of controlled breathing. The peptide respiratory link is well documented; virtually any peptide found anywhere else can be found in the respiratory center. This substrate may provide the scientific rationale for the powerful healing effects of consciously controlled breathing patterns” (Pert1997 p186 – 187)

For information on available calmbirth courses in Sydney visit http://www.julieclarke.com.au

Describing her own birthing experiences, Candace Pert recalls…

“I had chosen to do it my own way when after one high tech, heavily drugged hospital delivery, and a second natural childbirth, again in the environment of a hospital (which required me to fight off a constant barrage of unnatural interventions). I decided to have my third child at home. My magic bullet had been breathing, which is a sure fire, proven strategy for releasing endorphins and quelling pain.

Obviously, this is what previous generations of women, in the days before IV drips and synthetic pain medication, had relied upon. Both they and their babies must have been better off for the experience as I certainly felt myself to be.” (Pert 1997 p 167)

calm baby sleeping peacefully

calm baby sleeping peacefully

2. Does calmbirth® work for everyone?

calmbirth® is a model of interaction. In a sense “IT” does not work. Rather it is the pregnant couples who understand how marvelously the mother’s body is designed, who develop the confidence to work with their birth process rather than resist it and finally, to eliminate fear these are the couples who are more likely to create a birth experience unforgettably joyful, calm and even ecstatic.

3. There is an emphasis on taking away the pain, are we are setting women up to fail?

In the calmbirth® classes the pregnant couple explore one of the main reasons why pain is created in the first place. In the basic information imparted to the pregnant couples and the skills taught, the sensations of labor can be seen more in their true light as muscle sensation albeit intense at times.
Couples are able to distinguish between hard work and pain. They are reassured that no matter what path their labor and birth take, there are no failures, just different birth journeys just as there are different life journeys.
Even if unforeseen circumstances arise, the skills taught in the classes assist the couple to remain calm and focused and bring out of that experience the joy of bringing their baby into the world.

Mother Baby Bonding Together

Mother Baby Bonding Together

For information on available calmbirth courses in Sydney visit http://www.julieclarke.com.au

4. A woman needs to feel the pain to be empowered and feel like she has achieved something.

There are many bodies of knowledge relating to the experiences of childbirth and its physical manifestations. To experience pain and be empowered by it is one approach.
However our experience of speaking to calmbirth® mothers demonstrate that a woman does not have to feel pain to be empowered in childbirth.
These mothers who have birthed their babies show that the techniques learned in the calmbirth® classes can be instrumental in the release of endorphins, oxytocin and other pain relieving substances in the body which result in a birthing experience that is calm, joyful and ecstatic.
Some of the comments from the mothers after their labor and birth have been: “I was sad when it was over” and “I can’t wait to do it again”.

Doctor Sarah Buckley states that peak levels on birthing hormones can take the mother into ecstasy so that they enter motherhood awakened and transformed. (Buckley, 2003 p 262)

5. calmbirth® women take too long in Second Stage.

This concept has its origin in the Active Management of Labor given to us by a group of Irish doctors in 1970s. Their belief was that every mother’s labor and birth has to fit within a certain time frame.
This belief was carried on and is still very much in evidence in many of the maternity hospitals throughout the western world.
A number of calmbirth® mothers have reported that when laboring in the hospital birthing suite their labor was disrupted by a midwife insisting on them inappropriately “pushing” when if fact they did not feel the urge to do so.

The old and all too familiar scene is one of a pushing, panting and a fatigued mother being instructed to take a deep breath and hold it as long as possible whilst bearing down. It was expected that the mother would be working extremely hard, getting very hot and going purple in the face. It is often referred to as purple pushing.

Scientific evidence shown in the 1980′s has to a certain extent been disregarded. This evidence showed that the second stage of labor is not dangerous for the baby but actually helps to stimulate the baby’s digestive, elimination and respiratory systems. Pushing, in fact, can be dangerous to both the mother and the baby. When a woman is pushing she is holding her breath. Oxygen therefore is not going to her uterus which makes contraction more difficult and painful. It is also not going to her baby. This can lead to a drop in the baby’s heart rate and fetal distress.

Of course, this isn’t to say that if a woman has the urge to push, she ignores the feeling. But certainly, she shouldn’t feel she has to just because she’s been told that this is the way babies are born. Birth is a creative act, and like all creative acts it cannot conform to society’s unnatural time constraints. The insistence that pushing is necessary in labor is simply a reflection of our cultural attitude that force and haste are superior to trust and patience.

As long as the mother and baby are monitored and all is well, both should be left to “allow” the birth to happen rather than “make” it happen.

For information on available calmbirth courses in Sydney visit http://www.julieclarke.com.au

calmbirth logo

calmbirth logo

6. What are the differences between the calmbirth® programme and HypnoBirthing®?

History

Peter Jackson brought the HypnoBirthing® programme to Australia in the late 1990s.
He was the sole trainer of practitioners and built a private childbirth education practice in which he took hundreds of couples through the HypnoBirthing® programme.
Many of these couples received great benefit from the programme. However, the name along with certain cultural aspects and content (namely the hypnosis element) of the HypnoBirthing® programme limited the number of couples interested in attending the classes.

For information on available calmbirth courses in Sydney visit http://www.julieclarke.com.au

Peter wanted to reach a wider range of Australian couples.
He also believed the level of training given to practitioners needed to be of a much higher standard to equip them with the skills needed to confidently facilitate the classes.

In 2004 Peter left the HypnoBirthing® Institute in the USA and took time to write his own programme which he named “calmbirth®”

__________________________________________________

calmbirth® is not an Australian version of HypnoBirthing®.

Each programme reflects the profession of its founder one being a midwife and the other a hypnotherapist. Each has built on the work of contemporary science and subconscious mind therapy in different ways.

calmbirth® is an Australian childbirth preparation programme which was developed by Peter Jackson in 2005. Peter has worked in General, Psychiatric and Midwifery disciplines of nursing since 1970. During the greater part of this time, Peter worked as a registered midwife assisting hundreds of birthing mothers. He is also a Private Subconscious Mind Therapist. He has developed calmbirth® from his years of study and experience in these fields.

The HypnoBirthing® programme is a programme written and founded in the USA in the 1980’s by Marie Mongan, a hypnotherapist who developed the programme firstly, by drawing on her own birthing experiences and subsequent training as a counsellor and hypnotherapist.

The Program

Dr Grantly Dick Read’s Fear – Tension – Pain syndrome forms part of the foundation of both programs however the subsequent contemporary science as perceived by each founder is expressed in different ways.

Childbirth Without Fear by Dr Grantley Dick-Read

Childbirth Without Fear by Dr Grantley Dick-Read

HypnoBirthing® was developed to teach couples self hypnosis techniques to achieve a satisfying birth free of the fear that causes pain and discomfort.

calmbirth® promotes the use of deep relaxation which is centered around the normal physiological relaxation response within the body. This is based on Dr Herbert Benson’s extensive research into what he terms the Relaxation Response.

Both programmes draw on different sources of contemporary authors and researches in dealing with the subject of Conscious Parenting, Bonding and Attachment.

Training of Practitioners / Educators

It is in this area that the two programmes vastly differ.

calmbirth® has been through the process of accreditation and is accredited by the Natural Birth Education and Research Center.

It is vitally important that registered calmbirth® practitioners have the foundation and support to facilitate their calmbirth® classes confidently and competently. A large number of resources have been put into the calmbirth® programme to facilitate this.

The calmbirth® training consists of three modules: a pre-reading module, a 5 day face to face seminar and a clinical module in which the students facilitate 3 calmbirth® classes with volunteer couples. These classes are evaluated by the calmbirth® student, and the volunteer couples in the form of a reflective paper written by the student and evaluation forms forwarded to calmbirth®. As well as this calmbirth® students are required to submit an open book review with the view to help students consolidate their learning.

A calmbirth® practitioner register has been set up with Standards and Codes of Practice. Renewal of yearly registration as a calmbirth® practitioner is dependent on the practitioner fulfilling certain obligations e.g. on going education, legal obligations, abiding by codes and service of practice.

HypnoBirthing® is not accredited by any independent body.

The HypnoBirthing® practitioner training consists of 4 days face to face lectures. The first two days are devoted to the subject of Hypnosis and is followed by two days which deals with running the HypnoBirthing® class programme. Students fill out an open book review and submit this to the HypnoBirthing Institute in the USA. Accreditation can take up to 6 months.

There is no HypnoBirthing® register and Australian practitioners are listed on the American HypnoBirthing website under geographical areas.

On going support for practitioners.

calmbirth®

calmbirth® students and registered practitioners are able to contact Peter Jackson by phone or email should the need arise.

Further support is available through the calmbirth® chat line, regular area practitioner meetings (which also include on going education) and an on line newsletter.

HypnoBirthing®

All support comes from the USA with practitioners required to contact the founder by email or phone.

There is a HypnoBirthing® chat line available for practitioners which is facilitated in the USA.

Advisory Committee.

calmbirth® has a voluntary advisory committee made up of experts in relevant fields who contribute to continuing development of the calmbirth® programme.

HypnoBirthing® does have a Board based in the USA. All decisions are made by the founder of the programme.

References

Buckley, S.M.B., Ch.B..Dip Obst. Summer 2003, Undistured Birth; Nature’s Blueprint for Ease and Ecstacy, Journal on Prenatal and Perinatal Psychology and Health Vol 17, No 4 pp 261 – 288

Caldeyro-Barcia, R. M.D. Spring 1979, The Influence of Maternal Bearing-down Efforts during Second State on Fetal Well-being. Birth and the Family Journal Vol.6 p1

Grant,Jane, S.C.M. Jan 1987, Reassessing the Second Stage, Assoc of Chartered Physiotherapists in Obstetrics& Gynaecology Journal, No 60, pp 26-30

Odent, M.1999, the Scientification of Love, Free Association Books Ltd, London

Pert, C.B, 2003, Molecules of Emotion, Scribner, New York

Sagady, Mayr,June 8th 2005, “Renewing Our Faith in Second Stage” The Second Stage Handbook. Midwifery To-day n-news Physiology of Second Stage.

Shanly, L. Don’t Push the River, It Flows by Itself website: freebirth.com

]]> <![CDATA[Baby Care Support Service is provided in your own home for your ease and convenience by Julie Clarke]]> http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2011/12/21/baby-care-support-service-is-provided-in-your-own-home-for-your-ease-and-convenience-by-julie-clarke/ Wed, 21 Dec 2011 08:41:10 +0000 julieclarketip http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2011/12/21/baby-care-support-service-is-provided-in-your-own-home-for-your-ease-and-convenience-by-julie-clarke/ Julie Clarke offers a very special baby care support service, exclusively for couples who have attended her Transition into Parenthood course.
Baby Care Support Service provided in your own home for convenience and ease - by Julie Clarke

Baby Care Support Service provided in your own home for convenience and ease

This is a “parent friendly” in-home support service, where Julie comes to you in your own home to visit for a couple of hours to provide support, guidance and assistance as requested.

Settled, calm, contented newborn baby - with no-cry solutions - attachment parenting

Settled, calm, contented newborn baby - with no-cry solutions - attachment parenting

There is no pressure or stress for the new parents to pack-up and travel somewhere else to get the help they want, Julie arrives morning or afternoon or evening.

About Julie Clarke’s Baby Care Support Service?

The in-home baby care support service is generally for parents of babies under twelve months.

Dad bathing the baby, can be scary to start with, nice to have gentle calm support available

Dad bathing the baby, can be scary to start with, nice to have gentle calm support available

What can Julie help with?

For many new families, I have been helping with sleeping issues, coping with extreme heat in summer, breast-feeding, problems such as positioning and attachment, over-supply, thrush and mastitis, expressing and storing breast-milk, bathing, massage, settling, playing/stimulating development, swaddling, coping with the “extreme cold” during winter, not sleeping enough at night, won’t go down to bed early enough, wakes too often through the night, wakes too early, won’t sleep at all during the day, sleeps really well through the day and then awake all night, only wants to have short sleeps (cat naps) both day and night, ergonomically arranging the baby’s room, playing and having fun, enhancing baby’s physical and learning development, little hints and tips on safety, introducing solid foods with maximum nutrition and minimizing risks of allergies or food intolerance’s, how to do cup feeding quickly and easily, structuring the routine of the day (just a little), figuring out priorities for your own special routines, and answer all those questions as they’ve come up.

Happy mum and bub, settling in at home, learning in an easy relaxed way with Julie's support

Happy mum and bub, settling in at home, learning in an easy relaxed way with Julie's support

How does Julie help with this service?

I provide suggestions, listening, answers and creative practical ideas that blend easily with the existing family/routine structure and of course gently guiding the mum and dad through new skills while they are “having a go” rather than me “taking over”.

Often I will show how to do it and then stand by to help if required, it’s quite surprising actually just how much can be covered in one or two hours. I prefer to carefully limit the session to just one or two hours so mum and bub don’t get tired.

A big yawn - night night baby - off to bed!

A big yawn - night night baby - off to bed!

One or two hours per week or per month or per quarter spread out over the first year is a wonderful help and support to the new mum.

Learning how to read baby's signals, helps families to understand their baby

Learning how to read baby's signals, helps families to understand their baby

Everyone learns best when well supported through an experience of learning by doing it themselves without any judgement or criticism, just gentle positive guidance.

Couples who have been through my courses are welcome to book me for just one hour at a time and we can see if we need to extend it or they can book 2 hours, or whatever they feel they need, I just respond to their needs at the time.

I have already helped quite a number of families at various stages in their first year, it’s been very satisfying, now that I have the time, with my two terrific sons grown up (in their 20′s), to have been of assistance by dipping into all my knowledge and practical skills that has been accumulating over the years.

Baby Care Support Service is provided in your own home for your ease and convenience

Baby Care Support Service is provided in your own home for your ease and convenience

In my work I comply with the WHO (World Health Organization) Baby Friendly Initiative and Federal and State Dept of Health recommendations for feeding babies as well as current evidenced based philosophy of avoiding rigid routines for mother and baby.

Payment for the Baby Care Support Service?

Only $50 an hour and I have kept the structure fairly loose to accommodate differing needs.
I’m prepared to cover the St George and Sutherland areas only so I don’t need to charge for traveling.
This service is available during the hours I’m not teaching the courses, and limited exclusively for the couples who’ve been through the courses.

Summary:

Baby Care Support Service – in your own home.
Only $50 per hour.
Area available: St George & Sutherland.
Very gentle, supportive, positive.
Limited to just the baby’s first 12 months.
Exclusively for couples who have attended the courses.

Having some fun - keep a sense of humour!

Having some fun - keep a sense of humour!

]]> <![CDATA[Connected to nature]]> http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2011/12/21/connected-to-nature/ Wed, 21 Dec 2011 07:50:32 +0000 julieclarketip http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2011/12/21/connected-to-nature/ Humans seem to have this innate need to be connected to nature.
Such a beautiful place to relax... on the grass under a shady tree

Such a beautiful place to relax... on the grass under a shady tree

Perhaps this is why so many people when they go on holidays to “get away from it all” head for the coast, or a tropical island paradise, or a rainforest, the bush, the countryside which provides us with the feeling of freedom.

That lovely holiday feeling of freedom and peace and tranquility

That lovely holiday feeling of freedom and peace and tranquility

Julie's garden: Frangipanis

Julie's garden: Frangipanis

Apple blossoms

Apple blossoms

Perhaps more than a feeling of freedom is also the sense of perspective… of where we actually fit into the scheme of things… our sense of belonging in a world of nature.

Beautiful beach coastline of Sydney

Beautiful beach coastline of Sydney

There is something reassuring for humans when connecting to nature… whether it’s bushwalking or going fishing or birdwatching or going for a swim in the river, a creek or the ocean… or perhaps just sitting for a while on the top of a mountain and looking out at a vast view… it does the soul good doesn’t it?

Julie Clarke patting a friendly deer her antlers were lovely and warm

Julie Clarke patting a friendly deer her antlers were lovely and warm

Another human experience which is balancing and healthy and nurturing is being with other people… humans are better off being with other humans… not isolated and lonely.

When people who are like minded or experiencing very similar circumstances come together in a supportive atmosphere and a relaxed environment surrounded by nature a calmness comes over the small group.

Julie Clarke has created that sort or atmosphere in her special classroom in the sunken lounge room of her home downstairs… outside the window is the lush green garden providing a unique peacefulness and privacy for her groups.

During lunchtime and other break times the groups mellow out in the garden that Julie looks after in her leisure time.

A space to relax and unwind

A space to relax and unwind

It’s a quirky, fun, easy going atmosphere in the garden and the couples from the courses often spread out on picnic blankets, or make use of the garden furniture chairs and tables and swap jokes and stories and ideas… laughing with each other and enjoying each others company easily.

gorgeous flowers - colourful and uplifting - cheerful

gorgeous flowers - colourful and uplifting - cheerful

Julie decorates the garden pots with fun arty items… there are amusing little things to notice and of course pretty petunias and azaleas and camellias and frangipanis.

The orange blossom hedge runs right around the whole lunch garden and brings a freshness to the air while those who wish to sit under the magnificent peppercorn tree.

Taking a group break and enjoying each others company for a while - picnic fun

Taking a group break and enjoying each others company for a while - picnic fun

During lunchtime be sure to tear off some leaves and crush them in your hands… cup your hands to your face and smell the beautiful aroma of the peppercorn tree leaves.
Bring your senses to life… enjoy the fragrances of nature… the peace and tranquility of Julie’s lovely garden…

Julie Clarke on a holiday visiting the beautiful Ottways Rainforest Victoria Australia

Julie Clarke on a holiday visiting the beautiful Ottways Rainforest Victoria Australia

]]> <![CDATA[Sheila Kitzinger: The Queen of Childbirth Educators!]]> http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2011/12/21/sheila-kitzinger-the-queen-of-childbirth-educators/ Wed, 21 Dec 2011 06:31:48 +0000 julieclarketip http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2011/12/21/sheila-kitzinger-the-queen-of-childbirth-educators/ The first time I met Sheila Kitzinger was at a conference many years ago in Sydney.
I was breath-taken!

I had read her books during my first pregnancy and felt so nourished and uplifted by all the information, it was so magical to meet Sheila… I walked up to her and I was shaking with nervousness… clearly she had met this situation thousands of times before and she was so warm and welcoming and gave me a big hug.

Years later I met her again and she was still the same remarkable woman… she made me feel so welcome in her own lovely home… we sat and talked about all her life’s work, her myriad of books, countless titles, all focused on helping women understand that birth need not be a scary medical event but instead a most beautiful awe inspiring normal experience for a woman.. the amazing rite of passage for a woman moving from womanhood to motherhood.

Reading Sheila’s books really is just the same as meeting the wonderful woman herself, she is the essence of motherhood, kind, wise, warm, gracious and such an inspiration to me… I don’t know where I read it… and I think it was many years ago that Sheila Kitzinger was labelled the “Queen of Childbirth Educators” and I do agree this is true as she was one of a small group of highly motivated informed women who actually commenced and set up the NCT, the National Childbirth Trust in the UK.
The NCT organisation has been a strong feminist organisation lobbying for the rights of pregnant women, laboring women and mothers.
Consumer pressure triggered by the teachings of the NCT has brought many improvements to the Maternity System in the UK, thanks to the many volunteer workers and their passionate supporters who believed women deserved better services and conditions as they had their babies.

The last time I saw Sheila Kitzinger in 2006 in England she told me her portrait had just that week been hung in the National Gallery in London, although she told me in a modest way I could tell she was very proud.

Sheila Kitzinger had birthed her 5 babies at home and I had read about her experiences through her books and as I climbed her stairs to use her bathroom I suddenly remembered she wrote she had just finished painting them when she had the twins…

I was very proud to have brought my homebirth baby when I visited Sheila, by now Ryan was a fine strapping 15 year old and of course he was very polite and respectful towards Sheila.

In the UK in 2006 when I had returned to our hotel room I later emailed Geoff saying “I have just had a pinnacle life moment today, when I met Sheila Kitzinger on my London visit”…

I’m sure I’ll remember the special experience forever, thank you Sheila…

Julie meets Sheila Kitzinger in Sydney 2007. Paddington Town Hall, Homebirth Conference.

Sheila Kitzinger, author of Pregnancy and Birth Books meets Julie Clarke, Sydney Australia

Sheila Kitzinger, author of Pregnancy and Birth Books meets Julie Clarke, Sydney Australia

]]> <![CDATA[The Business of Being Born DVD Sydney Australia Launch at Paddington Town Hall]]> http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2011/12/21/the-business-of-being-born-dvd-sydney-australia-launch-at-paddington-town-hall/ Wed, 21 Dec 2011 05:56:37 +0000 julieclarketip http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2011/12/21/the-business-of-being-born-dvd-sydney-australia-launch-at-paddington-town-hall/ The Business of Being Born DVD Sydney Australia Launch at Paddington Town Hall

The Business of Being Born DVD Sydney Australia Launch at Paddington Town Hall

Have you seen the DVD by Ricki Lake titled the Business of Being Born?

I have shown it to many course participants and I would have to say it’s one of the most popular DVD’s with many pregnant couples saying “it really opened my eyes to what birthing in the USA is”…

I was delighted to meet Ricki Lake, she was such a kind, gentle, gracious woman and spoke with everyone at the gathering… truly a remarkable soul!

If you haven’t had the good fortune to have a look at it yet be sure to ask me to show you when you attend my courses.

Julie
x

]]> <![CDATA[Transition into Parenthood Courses, Sydney Australia with Julie Clarke]]> http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2011/12/21/transition-into-parenthood-courses-sydney-australia-with-julie-clarke/ Wed, 21 Dec 2011 05:14:23 +0000 julieclarketip http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2011/12/21/transition-into-parenthood-courses-sydney-australia-with-julie-clarke/ Julie…What does your work involve?

Knowledge, experience, enthusiasm, energy and the dedication to share it with pregnant couples.
As an active birth pre natal class educator, in independent private practice for over 20 years, a professional birth support person, and calmbirth® facilitator.
My work involves a wide variety of facets but mostly it is to do with connecting with the lovely couples who attend my classes and require my guidance, reassurance, encouragement and uplifting motivation as they prepare for their “Transition Into Parenthood“.

Transition into Parenthood Course Group

Transition into Parenthood Course Group

Why have you chosen to do this type of work?

My central focus is to help couples prepare for birth.
The best way I can do that is to reduce fear and anxiety for the mum-to-be and inspire the partner to have a very clear idea of his role.
When they come to realize through the information in my courses that it does not have to be like “Hollywood drama deliveries” which are often negative, frightening dramas, they start to work together as a team, notice their sense of confidence increase and have strong clear ideas of how they would prefer their birthing experience to unfold.

Julie what was your own experience of birth?

As a young pregnant woman expecting my first baby I received great help through the pre-natal classes I attended and wonderful support from my partner to achieve the birth I wanted to achieve. I understand the anxiety, challenges and concerns that expectant couples face and felt highly motivated to undertake the training and provide really effective and positive education and preparation for them.

Describe a typical day.

Up, showered and washed hair, dressed, breakfast, load of washing, clean up kitchen, drop eldest son to train station with in depth conversation about relationships, hug youngest leaving for high school by about 8.00am, turn my attention to 9am commencement of a 3 hour individual session for a couple expecting twins, lots of questions answered and encouraging information provided by 12 noon lunchtime, salad sandwich and a cup of tea with our golden retriever as my companion, then onto marketing and business bookwork and answering the phone and emails for the afternoon, and preparation of handouts, posters and videos for the evening session. Partner of over 28 years, Geoff, arrives home and all family gather round the table to discuss the day, share dinner, chat and laughs together.

7pm to 9.30pm, facilitate the group for the evening, teaching about labor and breathing, options such as positions, the use of the hospital facilities, self help strategies for the women to use and partners role, including massage. After a “rehearsal” for labor where I guide the women and their partners through likely responses to labor we all relax and the partners are guided through foot massage – the women just totally love it!

One couple stays behind, patting our friendly black cat, Bagheera. After 9.30pm when everyone else has gone home, concerned because their closest friends have just given birth and told them an horrendous story – they need to tell me their story and receive clear ideas and guidance on how to support their friends and yet minimize the risk of it happening to them. They leave an hour later feeling relieved and refocused on their own unique experience. I have a relaxing hot bath, hot cup of tea listening to the beautiful relaxation CD rainforest magic by about midnight.

Transition into Parenthood Course Group Bag

Transition into Parenthood Course Group Bag

Textbooks to the Transition into Parenthood Course

Textbooks to the Transition into Parenthood Course

Background Notes to Julie Clarke's Active Birth and Baby Care Courses

Background Notes to Julie Clarke's Active Birth and Baby Care Courses

Julie what is your advice for a woman about to approach labor?

Have courage and determination – be cared for by midwives – have a birth plan clearly communicated to your partner, extra support person, midwife and any other birth attendants. Stay in the shower or bath as long as you wish – grin.

]]> <![CDATA[A burning feeling that starts in the stomach...dealing with Heartburn and Indigestion!]]> http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2011/12/13/a-burning-feeling-that-starts-in-the-stomach-dealing-with-heartburn-and-indigestion/ Tue, 13 Dec 2011 05:40:43 +0000 julieclarketip http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2011/12/13/a-burning-feeling-that-starts-in-the-stomach-dealing-with-heartburn-and-indigestion/ Heartburn and Indigestion
Heartburn and Indigestion: Pregnant belly running out of room!

Heartburn and Indigestion: Pregnant belly running out of room!

Heartburn is a form of indigestion with a burning feeling that starts in the stomach and seems to rise into the throat, caused by leakage of small amounts of hydrochloric acid from the stomach into the esophagus. Greasy fried or spicy food often cause heartburn and indigestion. Try to figure out what foods cause heartburn in you and don’t eat them. In pregnancy pressure from the enlarged womb coupled with relaxation of the valve at the top of the stomach forces acid into the back of the throat. Here are some things you can try, see what works best for you:

Eat smaller, more frequent meals, say 5 to 6 small meals each day, to reduce gastric acid

Drink between meals, not while eating (1/2 hour before meals and 1-2 hours after)

Avoid eating an hour before going to bed

Sleep and rest with your head slightly higher than the rest of your body

If you have heartburn at night, prop yourself up with 2 to 3 pillows to sleep

Take a walk or sit quietly, relax and breathe deeply

Yogurt or milk may help as it neutralizes the effect of gastric acid

Slightly acidic foods, such as fruit juice and tomatoes may provide some relief

Don’t mix dairy and acid foods as this will make you feel sick and give you stomach pains

Avoid highly spiced and fried foods

Peppermint, chamomile, raspberry leaf or ginger tea may help

Fresh coriander, slippery elm or dried paw paw

Umeboshi juice (a Japanese plum available from health food stores). Boil 3 plums in 600 ml of water and keep in the fridge, drink a little when needed

Spearmint or peppermint candies, sweeties,lollies might be helpful

Lemonade or Fruit ice blocks or ice candies can be very cooling and soothing to an upset stomach


If none of these suggestions seem to work for you, talk to your midwife, pharmacist, nutritionist or naturopath. Ask about other remedies or antacids which might be helpful but use them only the way your health care provider advises you.
Keep your medical provider informed of any unusual changes, always discuss with your midwife or doctor anything of concern to you medically.

Do you have some more safe, natural, useful, ideas for pregnant women to try…?
Share them here…

]]> <![CDATA[About Julie Clarke Childbirth and Parenting Educator]]> http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2011/12/13/about-julie-clarke-childbirth-and-parenting-educator/ Tue, 13 Dec 2011 03:53:54 +0000 julieclarketip http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2011/12/13/about-julie-clarke-childbirth-and-parenting-educator/ What does your work involve?
Julie Clarke is a skilled childbirth and parenting educator

Julie Clarke is a skilled childbirth and parenting educator

Knowledge, experience, enthusiasm, energy and the dedication to share it with pregnant couples as an active birth pre-natal educator, in independent private practice for 20 years, a professional birth support person (doula), for over 150 births in over 20 years and calmbirth® course facilitator.

Visit Julie’s website: http://www.julieclarke.com.au

My work involves a wide variety of facets but mostly it is to do with connecting with the wide variety of interested couples who attend my classes and require guidance, reassurance, encouragement and uplifting motivation as they prepare for their “Transition Into Parenthood“.

Why have you chosen to do this type of work?

To be able to provide the help and support that pregnant couples need in a fun and informative way.
As a young pregnant woman expecting my first baby I received great help through the pre-natal classes I attended and wonderful support from my partner to achieve the birth I wanted to achieve.
I understand the anxiety, challenges and concerns that expectant couples face and felt highly motivated to undertake the training and provide really effective and positive education and preparation for them.

Transition into Parenthood active birth and baby care courses Sydney (02) 9544 6441

Transition into Parenthood active birth and baby care courses Sydney (02) 9544 6441


What is your advice for a woman about to approach labor?

Gain courage and determination from the courses you’ve attended – be cared for by midwives – have a birth plan clearly communicated to your partner, extra support person, midwife and any other birth attendants.
During labor: Stay in the shower or bath as long as you wish!

Groups of pregnant couples relax, learn and have fun!

Groups of pregnant couples relax, learn and have fun!

Why are you teaching calmbirth®?

It’s an extraordinary course to be able to offer to pregnant couples!
During September 2007, I trained as a calmbirth® practitioner which is a wonderful Australian course. Calmbirth® provides positive visualization, relaxation using breathing and consciously relaxing muscles and good guidance for women on how to work with their body during the labor and birth process rather than against it. Based on the philosophy by a UK obstetrician Dr. Grantly Dick-Read that childbirth pain is caused by fear and tension. He describes the fear tension pain cycle and how women who are prepared properly for labor and birth are quite capable of birthing normally without intervention or drugs. The basic idea being that the more relaxed a woman is during her labor the more comfortable she will be.

active calmbirth courses in Sydney with Julie Clarke (02) 95446441

active calmbirth courses in Sydney with Julie Clarke (02) 95446441

The calmbirth® course is designed to explain these concepts, to women and their partners, and to provide a forum to master the skills by drawing on the resources within very effectively. Underpinning all of my work in the Transition Into Parenthood classes is the same philosophy with calmbirth® training and that is encouraging, supporting and guiding family bonding between a couple as they prepare for the birth of their baby. Focusing on the role of the value of each parent, the importance of mothers and equally the importance of fathers in the life of their unborn and newborn baby – with this in mind by encouraging enjoyment rather than stress and fear during the period of the pregnancy and birth it creates the space for a more conducive atmosphere for good solid family bonding. Relaxation, joy, hope, courage, determination, togetherness creates good strong loving relationships. In a nutshell, that’s what it is all about.

There are times when women attend on their own without their partners, for a variety of reasons, and of course this is perfectly fine. Women love the way they feel so empowered after these courses, they feel uplifted, with more courage and determination in the most positive way.

Facilitation Roles?

Independent Childbirth and Parenting Educator in registered business “Transition Into Parenthood” pre-natal classes.
calmbirth® practitioner since 2006 trained by Peter Jackson midwife Bowral calmbirth founder
Qualified with Community Organization Parents Centres Australia.
Advanced Childbirth Educator and Trainer with the National Association of Childbirth Educators (NACE) National Editor of the “Interaction” Journal of the National Association of Childbirth Educators, since 2003
Supervisor for the Associates in Childbirth Education training for Graduate Diploma Students (VETAB Accredited)
Professional birth support person at more than 150 births. Including Delivery Suite, Birth Center, Operating Theater, Home births and Water Births.
Consumer Representative for Maternity for the SESAHS South Eastern Sydney Area Health Service

Committees

The Sutherland Hospital Birth Center Development Committee2003/4/5
UTS Bachelor of Midwifery Planning Committee 2003/4
St George Hospital Homebirth Development Committee
Certified HypnoBirthing ® Instructor since May 2004 Certificate no. 1922-04
Former Karitane post natal depression telephone support counselor
Former trainer and presenter at “Doula Express” in Sydney for doulas – professional birth support)
Presenter at national conferences around Australia (see below)
Regularly attends conferences, seminars and workshops to remain up-to-date.
Convener of the St George and Sutherland Shire Homebirth Support Group

Other Qualifications

PCA Breastfeeding Counselors Course, 1988
PCA Childbirth Educators Course, 1989 (12 months part-time course)
Karitane Mothercraft Society Post-natal Depression Telephone Support Counselors, 1990 (conducted by Ms Kerry Lockhart, Deputy Director of Karitane, 6 week short course)
CERT IV Workplace Training, October – December 2002
Certified HypnoBirthing® Practitioner Training, May 2004 (conducted with midwife and hypnotherapist Peter Jackson, HypnoBirthing Practitioner and Trainer for Australia)

Seminars and conferences attended:

Parents Centres Australia (PCA) Conference, Macquarie University, 1986
Legal, Ethical & Social Issues Pertaining to Childbirth Conference, Sydney University, 1989
Nursing Mother’s Assoc. of Aust. Conference, Melbourne, 1989
Parents Centres Australia Workshop for Educator’s and Midwives, RHW Paddington, 1989
Associates in Childbirth Education Workshop “Presentation Skills for Educators”, 1990
Associates in Childbirth Education Workshop “Coping with Grief – Educators and Parents”, 1990
Associates in Childbirth Education Workshop “Waterbirth – Dr Michel Odent”, 1990
Associates in Childbirth Education Workshop “Teaching Skills for Childbirth Educators”, 1991
2nd International Homebirth Conference Sydney University, 1992, featuring Sheila Kitzinger, Janet Balaskas, Dr. Marsden Wagner, Ina May Gaskin
RHW Workshop for CBEs and Midwives – Update on Birth Center Philosophy , 1993
National Association of Childbirth Educators (NACE) Conference, “Into the Future” , 1994
National Association of Childbirth Educators (NACE) Workshop, “Childbirth Education – Choices”
Nursing Mother’s Assoc. of Australia (NMAA) Conference, “Breastfeeding“ , featuring Professor Peter Hartman, 1996
Childbirth and Parenting Educational and Resource Service (CAPERS) Teaching Skills Course, Sydney, 1997
Independent Educators Workshop with Swedish Pediatrician Lennart Righartd on Bonding and Attachment Early Parenting, 1998
Royal Women’s Hospital Waterbirth Seminar by the Birth Center Midwives, 1999
Homebirth Australia National Conference, Byron Bay, 1999
Associates in Childbirth Education (ACE) Seminar “Enhancing Midwifery”, 2000, featuring Pat Brodie, Lynne Staff and Nicky Leap
Bi-monthly workshops throughout 1999/2000 with the Independent Childbirth Educators Alliance, skill sharing
South Eastern Health Workshop “Raising Child Protection Issues in Parenting Education Programs”, Lynne Clune, 2000
South Eastern Health Basic Training for Childbirth and Parenting Educators
South Eastern Health Mentor Training by Lynne Clune and Jane Svensson, 2001
Midwives Association Seminar, held at RHW, “Women and Violence”, 2002
South Eastern Health Lactation Department seminar “Breastfeeding”, 2002
International Lactation Consultants Conference, Sydney , 2003

Training / talks / presentations provided

Julie regularly welcomes student midwives, student childbirth educators, and student doulas attending her ante-natal preparation courses
Conducted a 2 day seminar at Tamworth for the New England Area Health Service, “Making Groups Work”, for midwives and childbirth educators in the region, focusing on adult education, group dynamics and facilitator skills, 2002
Conducted 2 day seminars at Tamworth and also Armidale for the New England Area Health Service, February 2003 and May 2003
Speaker on “Fatherhood Issues” at the April 2001 NACE Conference and also at the CAPERS Conference as well as presenting the “Fatherhood Issues” activity. Very well received at both conferences.
Presenter at the ACE Grad Dip Course 6 day workshop held in Sydney in 2002, 2003, 2004 and again in 2005. Topics included “How to Present Parenting in Groups” and “Facilitating Groups”.
Presenter at the Birth International Conference in Auckland New Zealand March, 2008. Topics: “Teaching Birth: Reducing Fear” and “Parenting 101″
Presenter at the Birth International Conference in Novotel, Brighton, Sydney, Australia March, 2008. Topics: “Starting a Childbirth Education Practice” and “Giving Birth”.

]]> <![CDATA[“The Beacon in the South of Sydney for Natural Birth”]]> http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2011/12/12/the-beacon-in-the-south-of-sydney-for-natural-birth/ Mon, 12 Dec 2011 07:11:13 +0000 julieclarketip http://blog.julieclarke.com.au/2011/12/12/the-beacon-in-the-south-of-sydney-for-natural-birth/ Welcome to my very first ever blog, I am so excited to be sharing my knowledge with you, the reader, and keeping my posts fun at the same time.
My name is Julie Clarke, I have trained as a childbirth educator and doula, and for over 20 years have been teaching natural active birth courses from my home in Sylvania, Sydney, Australia.

5 years ago I commenced teaching calmbirth® courses and the results for birthing women have been amazing.

Amongst birthing health professional circles I am affectionately referred to as “The Beacon in the South of Sydney for Natural Birth”…

Is there anything you’d like me to write about in particular to do with pregnancy, labor, birthing, baby care, breastfeeding, family bonding, relationship with the new Dad?
Let me know if there is because I would really like to respond to whatever it is that visitors would like to read about.

I can’t wait to read your responses to my posts and I hope we develop a great friendship along the way.
I’ll look forward to getting to know you!

Did you discover, when you commenced reading the internet and books on pregnancy and birth, a whole language of new words and terms that you hadn’t come across before?

Suddenly there seems to be so much to learn to enable the woman to fully understand what is happening within her body and what is yet to occur.

Many women and their partners are surprised and delighted when they find out they are pregnant and then depending on the stories they hear and the books and articles they read they might become anxious.
It is so important to know it does not have to be like that!

An inspirational childbirth educator will be able to explain the terms, in an interesting way which will fascinate you, showing you life-like models and examples.
She will be able to answer your questions and clarify aspects which otherwise might have been confusing.
In a good supportive educational atmosphere the information received from a childbirth educator will automatically reduce fear and increase confidence.

Oh and hey it should be a fun presentation too!

Terms and their meaning:

The Uterus: also known as the womb, is the thick powerful ball like shaped muscle deep inside the pelvis where the fertilized egg implants in the lining of the uterus and then grows as a fetus being nourished by the placenta, (I think the word UTERUS would make a great number plate for my car LOL perfect for a childbirth educator don’t you think?)

Contractions: refers to the action of the uterus during labor to thin out and draw open the cervix and then push the baby along the vaginal birth canal to be born, (a birth educator can explain good safe natural ways to reduce the pain of contractions – it’s true)

Cervix: in a mother having her first baby is the long firm thick closed neck of the womb/uterus, for a mother having a second and subsequent baby her cervix will be a little thinner and softer, an ‘unripe’ cervix feels like the tip of your nose… a ‘ripe’ cervix feels like soft relaxed lips found underneath your nose

Amniotic Sac: is the “bag of waters” or membranous sac which has two thin strong layers similarly to glad wrap; stretchy and strong, which surrounds the baby in slippery clear fluid to protect and cushion the baby as it floats comfortably, gently cradled within,

Placenta: provides the baby with nutrients and oxygen during the pregnancy and is connected to the baby by the umbilical cord, the soft, slippery placenta also known as the afterbirth and is born after the baby. In Germany the common language for the placenta is “mother cake”. In some cultures it is important to respect the work the placenta has already carried out of successfully nourishing the baby throughout the pregnancy by burying it in a hole and planting a shrub or tree over it as a symbol of life and growth. The tree is referred to then as the child’s tree.

Umbilical cord: this thick strong curly cord connects the baby to the placenta, it contains three blood vessels; two arteries and a vein which are contained in a thick jelly called Wharton’s jelly which protects the blood vessels if compressed. The cord is almost a meter long at full term and thicker than a telephone cord. The process of delayed cord clamping would be explained in a good thorough childbirth education course.

Embryo: is the term used to describe the growing baby in the uterus during the first trimester or the first three months of the pregnancy. Watching the growth and development of the embryo on a DVD documentary showing it by time-lapse photography is awesome. Your childbirth educator may have such DVD’s to show you.

Fetus: is the term used to describe the growing baby from twelve weeks through to full term pregnancy,

Newborn: is a baby from birth to three months.

What other amazing things did you learn or experience or discover during the first three months of pregnancy?

What surprised you?

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