Dogwood Doula Birth Services

  Turning an OP Baby: Spinning Babies Techniques for Optimal Fetal Positioning When your baby is in the occiput posterior (OP) position, labor may take longer and feel more intense due to back labor or inefficient contractions. The OP position, where the baby's back is aligned with the mother's back, can make it harder for the baby to navigate the pelvis. Fortunately, Spinning Babies offers evidence-based techniques to encourage your baby to rotate into the optimal position for birth—occiput anterior (OA). Here are some key techniques recommended by Spinning Babies to help turn an OP baby: 1. The Forward-Leaning Inversion This technique helps to create room in the lower uterine segment, encouraging the baby to move into a more favorable position. To perform: Kneel on the edge of a sturdy surface (like a couch). Slowly lower your hands to the floor, keeping your knees on the surface and your hips higher than your head. Hold the position for 30 seconds to a minute, then c...

  Frequently Asked Questions General Questions What is a doula, and what do they do? A doula is a trained professional who provides physical, emotional, and informational support during pregnancy, labor, and the postpartum period. Unlike medical professionals, doulas do not perform clinical tasks but instead focus on empowering you to have the birth experience you desire. Why should I hire a doula? Studies show that having a doula can lead to shorter labor, reduced need for interventions, and higher satisfaction with your birth experience. Doulas provide continuous support tailored to your needs, whether you're planning a natural birth, using an epidural, or scheduling a C-section. Insurance & Payment Does Dogwood Doula accept insurance? Yes, we currently accept Wellcare, Healthy Blue and United Medicaid plans. Tricare Prime and Select Coverage are also accepted. Phyllis Herbe is currently a non-network provider.  Coverage depends on your specific plan, so we will...

  Evening Primrose Oil in Pregnancy: A Natural Aid for Cervical Ripening Pregnancy is a time of anticipation, preparation, and curiosity—especially as you approach the finish line of your journey to meet your little one. If you’ve started researching natural ways to encourage labor, you’ve likely come across Evening Primrose Oil (EPO). Let’s dive into what it is, how it’s thought to work, and what you need to know before adding it to your prenatal routine. What is Evening Primrose Oil? Evening Primrose Oil is a supplement derived from the seeds of the evening primrose plant. Rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid, it has been historically used for various health purposes, including skin health and hormone balance. When it comes to pregnancy, EPO is most commonly associated with its potential to support cervical ripening in preparation for labor. How Does EPO Support Cervical Ripening? Cervical ripening refers to the softening and thinning of the cervix in pr...

 Preparing for Your Scheduled C-Section - Plan Ahead: Arrange childcare for older children, pet care, and transportation home from the hospital. - Fasting Guidelines: Follow your provider’s instructions about when to stop eating and drinking before surgery. - Medications: Review all medications with your provider; some may need to be paused. - Preoperative Shower: Use the special antiseptic wash provided by your hospital to reduce infection risk. - Comfort Items: Pack loose-fitting clothing, slip-on shoes, toiletries, and your favorite pillow or blanket for recovery. - Birth Preferences: Discuss gentle C-section options, such as clear drapes, immediate skin-to-skin, and delayed cord clamping.  What to Bring - For You:   - Comfortable robe and nursing-friendly tops.   - High-waisted underwear to avoid irritation near the incision.   - Compression socks to reduce swelling.   - Breastfeeding supplies: nipple cream, nursing pads, and a pillo...

About Phyllis Herbe Hi there! I’m Phyllis Herbe, founder of Dogwood Doula Birth Services, serving families across Fayetteville, Fort Liberty, and the surrounding counties. As a mom of five boys, a wife to a retired Army officer, and a seasoned birth doula, I bring a unique blend of personal and professional experience to every client I serve. I’m passionate about supporting moms, especially those navigating natural birth and breastfeeding, with evidence-based practices and a touch of warmth, humor, and faith. I accept Medicaid (including Healthy Blue and United Healthcare), making quality doula care accessible to all. Whether we’re talking about baby positioning, managing labor pain, or creating the perfect birth plan, my mission is simple: to advocate, educate, and empower you on your journey to motherhood. Let’s connect and make your birth story unforgettable!

Bringing home a premature baby is a moment of immense joy and trepidation. For many parents, this milestone feels like crossing the finish line of a marathon you never planned to run. However, before you can make your grand exit from the NICU or hospital, there’s one more hurdle to clear: the dreaded car seat test . Why Preemie Car Seat Safety is Critical Premature babies, often weighing less than 5 pounds, have unique challenges compared to their full-term counterparts. Their fragile bodies and underdeveloped systems require extra care, especially during transportation. Key concerns for preemies in car seats include: Underdeveloped muscles: Preemies lack the neck strength to keep their airways open, making it harder to maintain a safe breathing position. Low oxygen saturation: Their breathing and heart rates can dip in certain positions, particularly when semi-reclined. Temperature regulation: Small babies lose heat quickly, even in warm cars, which can pose a risk to their ...