News & Info

I am dedicating this section to all the helpful information that I have learned since becoming a mom.  Hopefully you can find it helpful too.

Cool things happening in the community:

 

• New ICAN Chapter starting up! The International Cesarean Awareness Network has a new local chapter to support local moms with education, information, and support. The meeting is open to the public and free. For more information please call: (805) 890-4001

 

---------------

What's in your baby's bubble bath?

In an article in MOTHERING Magazine (Mar/Apr 06) I found some startling info:  

"More than 1/3 of all personal care products contain at least one ingredient linked to cancer...  Baby products are no exception."

There is a website that you can go to to check ingredients in products and they are rated for their safety.  I, of course, checked some of the products I have thought to be safe and natural as well, only to find many harmful ingredients.  I then checked some of the more well known products that are common in households with babies only to find even worse ratings.  There is something wrong when the words "Reproductive/developmental toxicity, Immune system toxicants, Irritants, or Hazards" are involved with a baby wash or nighttime lotion!    CHECK YOUR PRODUCTS FOR SAFETY HERE

---

Did You Know?

Burning 100% Beeswax candles can reduce symptoms of asthma, allergies, and sinus problems?

Regular paraffin candles (made from petroleum) create a toxic soot problem in the home, which can enter into the lungs.

---

Diapers ... What You Need To Know!

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT:

Over 5,000 diapers from one child alone end up in the landfill and sit for around 500 years.  In the first year alone your child will use 2,500 diapers.

One year's worth of diapers = 286lbs of plastic for one child

18 billion diapers are used in the U.S. EVERY YEAR

Disposables consume 70% more energy on average and use 3.4 billion gallons of oil and over 250,000 trees annually, only ending up in our overburdened landfills.

HEALTH CONCERNS 

*Those gel beads in disposable diapers are actually a harmful ingredient called: 

Sodium Polyacrylate- which was linked to TOXIC SHOCK SYNDROME in Tampon users, banned from tampon manufac-turing in 1985! 

*Parents tend to leave disposables on longer because they hold more which only exposes the baby to the chemicals, bacterial growth & ammonia from the urine. 

*Other studies show links from disposables to sterility in male babies 

Parents tend to throw the fecal waste in the trash with the disposables as well... even though it states on the packaging that it should not go in the landfill and should be disposed of in the toilet...

You can reuse the cloth diapers for each of your next children.  Imagine the savings!

" />

WHERE TO FIND cloth diapers, safe skin products, slings etc... ?

Mollywogs in Templeton, CA - Diapers and Upscale resale products - Happy shopping!

Try Craigslist, Ebay, Work at Home moms who make diapers... or even make your own! 

Please contact me if you have questions.

Dont think you can use cloth?  Try gDiapers www.gdiapers.com  They are available at New Frontiers.

Contact Me

Please feel free to contact me with any questions; I would be happy to refer you to other doulas in the area. We can talk about how to make your birth the most positive experience possible.

E-Mail

trinadoula@yahoo.com

Telephone

(805) 610-6535

Office Hours:

Mondays & Wednesdays

9:00 am - 1:00 pm

SLO Wellness Center

1428 Phillips Lane #300,

SLO, CA 93401

Please call me to make an appointment

Facebook

Trina Dart CD(DONA)

"If a man is called to be a street sweeper, he should sweep streets even as Michelangelo painted, or Beethoven composed music, or Shakespeare wrote poetry. He should sweep streets so well that all the hosts of heaven and Earth will pause to say, 'Here lived a great sweeper who did his job well.'"
~Martin Luther King Jr.

About Me

ABOUT ME
My interest in birth began with my love of babies, ever since I was very young. There are pictures of me carrying babies around, when I was pretty much still a baby myself. Someday I will find those pictures and put one on the site for fun. Many years later I was fortunate enough to be a part of my nephew’s birth. It was such an amazing experience, one that I will never forget.

I had worked for 6 years as a Certified Nursing Assistant & Home Health Aid in Minnesota.  This knowledge and experience helps me a lot during births in people's homes or at the hospital.  It also helps me to work with people and respectful of their bodies during the best and worst times.  It has been amazing to be a part of people's lives during the beginning of life and end, it is truly beautiful.

I feel like I have truly found my calling as a doula. Caring for the woman during this transformation into motherhood is precious. It is so remarkable to be invited into families and experience this with them. I work hard to do anything I can to make this day a positive and beautiful birth experience for the family. I love capturing precious moments with my camera too, because that is the only time you will birth that child, and those moments go by so fast.

I am a member of the Birth and Baby Resource Network (BBRN) and was a coordinator for the Birth and Baby Fair in 2006. I am a member of Central Coast Doulas in Santa Barbara. I am a photographer, specializing in pregnancy, birth and newborn photography.

My husband and our family live here on the Central Coast in San Luis Obispo County. We travel to Minnesota to visit family fairly often as that is where I grew up, “Uff Da”.

MY PHILOSOPHY
Ultimately I am a doula because I believe every mother should have a positive birth experience.  That is to support the birth that you want not the birth that I want!  That is what is important.  I believe that birth is a normal process. It is also an experience that a woman will carry with her for the rest of her life! I believe that our culture has placed so much fear in the birth process and it has become very medical. Pregnancy, labor, and birth decisions are being made out of fear rather than faith or confidence in a woman’s body. I believe that there is a time and place for medical intervention but I speculate that it is being used unnecessarily and that I base on the high and increasing rates of cesarean births and the rise in maternal death. 

Testimonials

"I can't even express how awesome it was having her help and guidance through our daughter's birth!!!!!!" ~ K. Jones

"Having Trina as our doula made us feel more confident and helped to make a relaxing environment. It felt good to have her there." ~ G. and M. Albright

"It's so nice to have a doula there and know that you can rely on her, and benefit from her knowledge, experience, and compassion." ~ H. Forsgren

"Trina gave me a calming sense of security. I felt like she was really there for me rather than just doing her job." ~ N. Wellman

"Creating and maintaining an atmosphere of intimacy was very important to us. Trina was very unobtrusive, offering assistance and encouragement in such a way that it didn't interfere with our need for privacy. We are so thankful for Trina's support during our labor and birth, and would love to have her join us again for any future pregnancies!" ~ M. and J. Martinez

"We could not believe how caring, empathetic, and hands on Trina was during our birth experience. We were so impressed by her giving, caring nature. We couldn't have gotten through it without her. We feel that Trina was an indispensable support system for us as well as a lovely person and friend." ~ A. and J. Dakos

"My birth experience was amazing thanks to Trina. She was with me all night as we danced, sang, laughed, and cried together. Her gentle presence and inspiring words got me through the tough times. Without Trina I'm sure my birth experience wouldn't have gone as beautifully as it did. She is worth her weight in gold!" K. Skilar

“Trina was great at showing and encouraging my partner how to be an active participant in the labor process. It was so relieving to have someone there to explain aspects of my labor to my partner."

Trina worked extremely well with the hospital staff. She made sure that all of my choices were honored with our hospital care...so I could focus on my contractions and be emotionally in tune with my body.

I would strongly recommend Trina Dart's doula service to anyone who is a first-time mother or to anyone who has had a less than positive birth experience. She has the guidance, knowledge and experience to perform her job as a doula in a professional manner and yet at the same time, she radiates with warmth and compassion.

Words cannot describe what a blessing Trina has been to our new little family...she truly has found her passion and it shines through her work as a doula.” A. Miller

Links

The Birth Survey - Fill out the survey or check out the results !

Birth & Baby Resource Network
BBRN is dedicated to providing resources that support families in making informed decisions for pregnancy, birth and early parenting.

Mothering
Info on pregnancy, birth, newborn to grown children, and great ideas for healthy snacks and games

DONA International - Doulas of North America
The North American doula organization.

La Leche League - Local SLO Chapter
Information on breastfeeding and support groups here locally in San Luis Obispo County.

Central Coast Kids
Info on fun things to do with your kids.

Waterbirth International
Info on water birth.

CIMS
Coalition for Improving Maternity Services - to promote a wellness model of maternity care that will improve birth outcomes and substantially reduce costs.

Birthplans
A site to help you create your birth plan - remember to keep it simple!

My Best Birth - website & forum set up by Ricki Lake & Abby Epstein after the "Business of Being Born" film

Wee Workout
For body, brain, and bonding - In Paso Robles.

Central Coast Doulas
Organization of doulas in the Central Coast of California area.

The Nautical Bean
My Favorite Coffee Shop

SLO COUNTY MOMMIES A local SLO mommy forum! Check it out!

CentralCoast.com
What's going on in our area!

THE GOODFATHER A fun parenting resource

Nursing Pads & other really cool stuff !

CHIROPRACTIC CARE For your whole family! Dr. Rex and Dr. Molly Stevens 805-543-8688

BUTTERFLY BOUTIQUE - Kids Store in LOS OSOS New and Resale items Ergo Carriers too!

Cards In The Mail - this is a site that send actual physical cards for you in the mail! You can put pictures and even use your own handwriting!

Dogs & Babies - Dogs & Storks, a site to help introduce your pet to the new baby.

Stroller Strides SLO- Exercise with your baby... and have fun too!

Stroller Strides Paso Robles

Sweet Dreams - Beautifully designed cookies for any occasion

Fascia Balance - Maggie Ragatz, Massage Therapy & Rolfing

Barefoot MomEase - Pregnancy Massage

FAQ

What is a birth doula?

A birth doula is a person trained and experienced in childbirth who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informaitonal support to the mother before, during, and just after childbirth. A doula anticipates the mother's needs and attends to them. A doula does NOT make decisions for the parents but, rather, helps them to make informed decisions.

What does the word "doula" mean?

"Doula" is a Greek word meaning "servant".

What is the difference between a doula and a midwife?
Doulas do not provide medical care, and do not deliver babies. Midwives are trained to provide all necessary medical care and ensure the health and well-being of you and your baby. Doulas work as a part of the team, with a midwife or doctor and nurse. Doulas provide continuous emotional and physical support to the laboring woman and her partner, and are a positive addition to the birth team for those couples who desire extra support. Certified doulas do not provide any kind of medical care. For instance, they would not listen to the baby’s heart beat or do a vaginal exam or deliver the baby. Doula care has been shown to improve outcomes for both moms and babies in many studies.

Does the doula replace the father/partner?
The doula is a part of a team. The doula is there in addition to, not instead of, the partner. Ideally, the doula, the birth partner and the hospital staff make the perfect support team for the new mother.

The father-to-be or partner is expected, among other things, to become familiar with the process and language of birth, to understand medical procedures and hospital protocols and to advocate for his partner in an environment and culture that he is usually unfamiliar with. A doula can relieve some of the pressure associated with his role. She is not emotionally attached and can be more objective. A doula can make suggestions for the partner on ways to truly help the mother.

The partner’s presence and loving support in childbirth is comforting and reassuring. The love he shares with the mother and his child, his need to nurture and protect his family, are priceless gifts that only he can provide. With her partner and a Doula at her birth, a mother can have the best of both worlds; her partner’s loving care and attention and the Doula’s experience, expertise and guidance in childbirth.

I have found a lot of the father's to be my biggest supporters after the birth, truly appreciative!

Why do I need a doula in the hospital with nurses and hospital staff?
During labor you will likely not see your doctor unless there are complications. The doctor on call is in contact with your nurse during labor and usually arrives shortly before your baby is ready to be born. Nurses are invaluable during birth, providing the care and expertise they have been trained for. But in today’s hospitals nurses are very busy as they are doing more work in fewer hours than ever before. It is not uncommon for one nurse to be in charge of three or more mothers in various stages of labor, making their availability very limited. Getting to know your nurse takes a bit of time and during labor this can be quite difficult. This coupled with shift changes, can make an otherwise great birth marred by disruptions. It is also well documented that disruptions, whether that be the arrival at the hospital, changes in shifts or attendance of your birth by another caregiver can slow and even stop labor. Doulas are trained to provide the vital supportive care you need throughout your labor and in dealing with the disruptions common in hospitals, providing the continuity so vital in keeping your labor progressing.

Doulas do not replace nurses or other medical staff. Doulas do not perform clinical or medical tasks such as taking blood pressure or temperature, monitoring fetal heart rate, doing vaginal examinations or providing postpartum clinical care.

Your Doula’s only responsibility is to you and she will remain with you at all times during your labor and birth. Your Doula will have met you and your partner several times before the birth, unlike the nurses at the hospital who will usually be meeting you for the first time. You will have chosen your Doula based on her personality and how well she matches your philosophy. Your Doula will work with your caregivers to strive for the best possible labor and birth experience.

I plan to use an epidural/pain medicaiton, why have a doula?

• Most of the time you will do some laboring before an epidural is administered
• Occasionally the anesthesiologist is unavailable for a period of time

Although epidurals are effective relieving pain most of the time, there are things your epidural cannot do for you.

Your epidural will not:

• Give you a massage
• Explain what is happening
• Inform you on your options
• Get you ice chips / wet washcloth / chapstick
• Give your partner a break or pick up dinner for him
• Be reassuring and nurturing
• Play music
• Help you with breathing
• Help you with pushing
• Help you with breastfeeding
• Take photographs or video

What if I cannot afford doula services? Please talk to me regarding my sliding scale and payment options.

Here are some additional FAQ pages from other sources:

Doula Services

WHAT WILL I DO FOR YOU?

As a Doula, I accompany women in labor to help ensure a safe and satisfying birth experience. I have received education for the doula's role from Doula's of North America (DONA). I draw on my knowledge and experience to provide emotional support, physical comfort and, as needed, communication with the staff to make sure that you have the information you need to make informed decisions as they arise in labor.

I can provide reassurance and perspective to you and your partner. I can make suggestions for labor progress, and help with relaxation, massage, positioning, and other techniques for comfort.

I am independent and self-employed. As your Doula, I am working for you, not your caregiver or hospital.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IF YOU HIRE ME AS YOUR DOULA?

Prior to the birth:

• Meet for an initial interview, getting to know each other
• 2-3 prenatal visits
• We will discuss your priorities, fears, and concerns
• I am available for phone consultation 24 hours a day
• I can help with preparation of a birth plan
• You will have access to my book and video library
• I am on-call until your baby is born
• Pregnancy Photography if desired (additional fee)(not currently available)

During labor and birth:

• I provide labor support in your home, hospital and/or birthing center
• Massage and other non-pharmacological pain relief measures
• Positioning and other comfor measure suggestions
• Help support the partner so that they can love and encourage the laboring woman
• Run errands, pick up food, etc..
• Help avoid unnecessary interventions
• Provide a backup doula if needed when sick or for other extraordinary circumstances
• I will remain with you throughout labor and birth and for one or two hours after birth, until you are comfortable and your family is ready for a quiet time together
• Help with initial breastfeeding
• Take pictures or videotape the birth if requested
• ** ~BIRTH PHOTOGRAPHY included~ **         (only if desired) & all photos on disc

Postpartum:

• 1 visit to go over the birth and admire the baby!
• Provide resources in the community
• Newborn Photography if desired (additional fee)(not currently offered)

OTHER:

• Attend childbirth classes (additional fee may be required)
• Photography Services - Birth Photography (in addition to doula services or seperate)

FEES:

Please contact me for my current rates.

I will provide my services on a sliding scale or for trade of services. Cost should not be your deciding factor.

 

I truly believe in doulas and believe that there should be "a doula for every woman who wants one."

I will require a retainer fee at the time of hire for the prenatal visits and on call service around your due date.

CALIFORNIA

I take clients from: Paso Robles, San Miguel, Templeton, Atascadero, Santa Margarita, Shandon, Creston, San Simeon, Cambria, Cayucos, Morro Bay, Los Osos, San Luis Obispo, Avila Beach, Pismo Beach, Shell Beach, Grover Beach, Oceano, Nipomo, Arroyo Grande and everywhere in between. I occasionally take clients from Santa Barbara or Monterey Counties if my schedule allows.

MINNESOTA

I take clients from: St. Cloud, Waite Park, St. Joseph to Minneapolis, St. Paul (Twin Cities), even the Fergus Falls area. Please contact me for available dates.

Birth & Baby Fair - May 10th

Upcoming Birth & Baby Fair!!!

It is so fun, you gotta check it out!

Saturday May 10th
10am - 3pm
San Luis Obispo, Mission Plaza



Click HERE for more info on the Fair.

Click HERE to see the super cool stuff in the silent auction!

Music, Dance, Pony Rides, Bounce House, & lots and lots of great booths!!
The Silent Auction will items for everyone! See photos attached!
Slings, Strollers, Clothes, Toys and more

See the Website for more details! www.bbrn.org

Kyler

A blessing to meet you Kyler... finally! :)