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Hot Labor Tips for Queer Partners
Maybe you are thinking that you are a fantastic partner and you don't need help. You know that support during labor is crucial for the...
Melissa F. Haley
Mar 11, 20242 min read
18


What does a doula DO-la?
I mentioned that I was feeling sore after a birth to my father-in-law and he looked confused. "How are you sore?! Aren't you a liaison at...
Melissa F. Haley
Mar 9, 20245 min read
52


Why are doulas so expensive?
Chicago doulas typically charge anywhere from $1200-2800+ per birth. That can give anyone sticker shock! Over a thousand dollars for a...
Melissa F. Haley
Mar 8, 20244 min read
49

A Guide for Queers Considering Conception in Chicago
If you have a uterus and are looking for sperm, this is a good place to start. Whether you are just starting to think about it or already...
Melissa F. Haley
Mar 7, 20245 min read
159


Placenta Encapsulation Process at Wyld Garden
Placenta encapsulation has become more mainstream, with about 20% of my clients choosing to have their placenta processed. In this blog...
Melissa F. Haley
Mar 4, 20244 min read
71


Why Did I Become a Doula?
When I was 6, I looked at my mom and said, "You're pregnant." She looked shocked and asked how I knew. She had just found out herself....
Melissa F. Haley
Mar 3, 20243 min read
83

U.S. gestational age has shortened dramatically 1990-2020
One of the best ways to gain perspective on typical pregnancy and birth practices in the US is to see what other countries are doing. We...
Melissa F. Haley
Mar 30, 20233 min read
33


Birth Story with Doula Notes: M&O's Induction
M + O's birth story began with a daytime induction. We were in close communication as M had her first doses of induction medication. She...
Melissa F. Haley
Mar 21, 20233 min read
10


Epidural Fears
Sometimes I work with clients who are afraid of getting an epidural. They might want the option of pain relief, but they wait until their...
Melissa F. Haley
Mar 20, 20232 min read
14


Birth Story: S&J
S's labor was slow to start, with cramping and light contractions for weeks. S&J really wanted the baby to come a week before their due...
Melissa F. Haley
Feb 9, 20232 min read
8

Why Physical Therapy is so Important in Pregnancy
Doulas and Physical Therapists go together like PB&J. Looking for an easier labor? You want us both on your team. Our services compliment...
Kate Uttech
Feb 2, 20235 min read
33


R Birth Story: Will I have my baby in the car?
Pretty much every birth support person (aka, the one who drives to the hospital) is scared to death that the baby is going to be born in...
Melissa F. Haley
Oct 26, 20223 min read
20


Book Review: Raising Them, Our Adventure in Gender Creative Parenting by Kyl Myers
Book Review: Raising Them is a memoir about raising a gender creative child - meaning that the parents in this book do not disclose their...
Melissa F. Haley
Sep 30, 20222 min read
8


Big News!
I have had some major changes lately. After a lot of careful consideration, I left my job coaching teachers for the past four years and I...
Melissa F. Haley
Sep 19, 20221 min read
15
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