Minnesota Birth Center Blog

The Minnesota Birth Center is now accepting applications for its next Doula Internship session! This session will run from March 2022 – November 2022.

Qualified doula candidates must:

• Have attended a birth doula training through DONA, CAPPA, or other reputable doula training program. If you have questions about the suitability of your particular program, please send an email to the contact information listed below.
• Practice within the DONA Scope of Practice.
• Have attended at least one birth in a support capacity (on occasion, exceptions may be made due to COVID-related restrictions).
• Be available to attend a total of at least six MBC births over the duration of the internship.

Former Doula Intern Mummie A.

BIPOC GLBTQ2S candidates strongly encouraged to apply.

Application materials and information on how to apply are located here: Doula Internship Requirements and Application

If you have a passion for birth work and meet the above requirements, please consider applying! Complete applications will be accepted until 6 pm on Sunday, February 6th.

Qualified applicants will be contacted for interviews.

Please read all application details thoroughly. Any additional questions not answered in the application may be emailed to rebecca@theminnesotabirthcenter.com.

Prenatal Massage Benefits

Pregnancy and birth are some of the greatest miracles of life, yet they come with their fair share of challenges. Backaches, swollen joints, and sore muscles are all common occurrences during pregnancy. Fortunately, research has shown that a prenatal massage can be of immense help in getting some relief from the discomfort. 

Whether it’s getting a quick foot rub from your partner or letting an expert trained in prenatal massage work some magic on your muscles, there are plenty of reasons you should add a prenatal massage to your routine.

Benefits of Prenatal Massage

Here are some reasons we love recommending prenatal massage:

Reduces swelling

Almost every mother-to-be experiences swelling in their feet, legs, and hands caused by reduced circulation and increased pressure on the major blood vessels. A massage can help stimulate the soft tissue and decrease fluid buildup, leading to a reduction in discomfort.

Relieves lower back pain

Many women suffer from sciatic nerve pain in late pregnancy. This is because the uterus rests on the pelvic floor muscles and lower back, which puts pressure on the leg muscles and nearby nerves. A prenatal massage addresses the inflamed nerves and releases tension on muscles, which provides relief from lower back pain.

Improves sleep quality

It’s pretty common to experience difficulty sleeping during all stages of pregnancy due to physical discomfort, stress, and anxiety. A prenatal massage relaxes the nervous system and releases the feel-good hormones, so you feel relaxed and sleep better.

Relaxation and stress reduction

A prenatal massage can also boost mood and enhance the overall well-being of a parent-to-be. According to a study, women who received a series of prenatal massages showed significantly reduced stress hormone levels and increased immune function. Another research found that prenatal massages can help reduce feelings of depression and anxiety.

Is it Completely Safe?

According to the American Pregnancy Association, women can begin massage at any point during a pregnancy. But generally, prenatal massages are considered safe second trimester onwards!

It’s a good idea to consult with your physician before you opt for a prenatal massage. Also, get it done by an expert so that you know you’re in safe hands. 

How to Give A Prenatal Massage at Home

It’s best if an expert gives prenatal massages, but if you’re on bed rest or simply want to indulge in this relaxation technique at home, you can do so by looping in your partner. 

Most pregnant women prefer receiving prenatal massages either lying sideways or in a kneeling position, as it can be difficult to lie on the back or stomach during pregnancy. However, keep in mind that prenatal massages are slightly different from regular massages, so your partner might have to alter the massage pressure and pattern constantly.

We hope this helps you ease those aches and pains!

Transferring Care

Over the course of your pregnancy, you will inevitably learn and unlearn so many things about having a baby and being pregnant. During this time, it’s natural to feel a shift in your usual birthing philosophy.

A lot of women feel unsatisfied with the care they receive at hospitals and might want to transfer their care to a stand-alone birth center such as the Minnesota Birth Center, for better care, individualized attention, and natural techniques of coping with labor. 

If you’re considering transferring your care to Minnesota Birth Center, here’s what you need to know!

What Are The Prerequisites

Before you choose to transfer your care, know that Minnesota Birth Center specializes in natural physiological birth without medical intervention. Please review our list of risk factors that might prevent you from having a natural birth. 

If you feel that you’re a candidate for a natural birth, here are some things to think about while transferring care:

• Get a complete record of your prenatal care (so far) from your previous place of care transferred to Minnesota Birth Center
• Attend the Minnesota Birth Center orientation
• Consider attending classes on birth education if it’s your first pregnancy
• Ask us about doula services

How Can I Transfer My Care?

Book an appointment or email us to let us know that you’re interested in transferring your care. If you’re emailing us, make sure to mention your current gestational age and past birthing history. Also, mention your current care provider and your reason for seeking a transfer. We’ll guide you from there onwards.

You will have to arrange for the transfer of medical records for the current pregnancy using the release of information form and having it faxed to us at (612) 224-9622. Please ensure that your medical records are transferred to us prior to your visit and that you plan on attending the orientation. Our team will then review your records and confirm your transfer. 

How Late In The Pregnancy Can I Transfer?

We recommend women come establish care before their 32nd week to help build the relationships with our midwives. However, we might accept transfers later than that in some circumstances. Send us a message today to start your care with us!