Peace of Mind During Pregnancy & Birth | The Peace of Mind Method™

Peace of Mind During Pregnancy & Birth | The Peace of Mind Method™

Peace of Mind During Pregnancy & Birth | The Peace of Mind Method™

At Childbirth Concierge®, we believe preparing for childbirth and parenting is about more than just checklists or clinical milestones. It’s about feeling safe, respected, and deeply supported. That’s why everything we do is grounded in The Peace of Mind Method™—a model where trauma-informed and evidence-based approaches intersect to transform perinatal care. Most importantly, our focus is peace of mind during pregnancy and birth.

More than a philosophy, this method is the foundation of our entire practice. It guides how we educate, listen, and walk alongside families—through childbirth classes, doula care, lactation support, and postpartum planning. In addition, it represents the intersection of what modern families truly need: practical tools, emotional safety, and deep trust in their own instincts.

Why “Peace of Mind”?

In a maternity system where many families feel unseen, rushed, or overwhelmed, peace of mind is more than a luxury—it’s a necessity. It’s the emotional and cognitive space to make informed decisions, feel secure in your choices, and be fully present in your own experience.

That’s why our model goes beyond typical education or support. It combines two vital elements:

  • Evidence-Based Care — grounded in current best practices and clinical knowledge.
  • Trauma-Informed Principles — recognizing that everyone’s story is different. As a result, care must be respectful, individualized, and empowering.

Because of this, our method builds trust, clarity, and confidence—no matter your background, birth plan, or path to parenthood.

The Peace of Mind Method™, Defined

Each letter in PEACE OF MIND represents a core value we embody at every stage of care—from the first consult to postpartum follow-up.

Our approach is built to support you with peace of mind during pregnancy and birth, so you can make decisions with clarity and confidence.

P.E.A.C.E. – The Foundation of Support

P – Personalized Support
Every journey is different. We meet families where they are—with tailored care, not one-size-fits-all plans.

E – Educate to Empower
Knowledge reduces fear. We lead with education that’s relevant, respectful, and rooted in your goals. As a result, empowered families make confident decisions.

A – Access to Trusted Support
From Certified Childbirth Consultants™, doulas, and childbirth educators to IBCLCs, families receive reliable, compassionate care every step of the way—from planning to postpartum.

C – Continuity of Care
We bridge the gaps in traditional maternity systems. As a result, we offer ongoing, relationship-based support from pregnancy through postpartum.

E – Empowerment Through Connection
True peace of mind comes from feeling seen, heard, and never alone. You are supported by a team that walks beside you, not ahead of you.

O.F. – Ownership and Feeling Grounded

O – Owning Your Experience
You deserve to be at the center of your care—not just guided, but grounded. Peace of mind means having a say in what matters to you.

F – Following Your Instincts
While books and classes are helpful, no expert replaces the wisdom within. We help you tune out the noise so you can hear—and trust—yourself.

M.I.N.D. – Inner Clarity and Confident Decisions

M – Make Room for What You Feel
There’s no right way to feel on this journey. Birth and parenting stir up big emotions. For that reason, we encourage you to acknowledge them with compassion, not judgment.

I – Identify What You Need
Clarity starts from within. Whether it’s rest, reassurance, or real information, naming your needs is how you begin to meet them.

N – Nourish Your Inner Voice
Your instincts are valid. We help protect and strengthen that voice so it can guide your decisions with confidence.

D – Decide With Confidence
Whether you’re choosing a provider, setting boundaries, or even shaping your birth preferences, you can move forward with calm, informed intention.

The Foundation of Childbirth Concierge®

Whether you’re attending one of our childbirth education classes,, hiring a doula, joining a lactation consult, or connecting through virtual support, you’ll experience The Peace of Mind Method™ in action. It shapes our tone, the way we design materials, how we train our team, and how we walk beside every family we serve.

This is not a one-size-fits-all model. Instead, it’s relationship-centered care, rooted in both best practice and deep respect for your lived experience.

What Peace of Mind Means for You During Pregnancy and Birth

When you work with Childbirth Concierge®, you’re not just booking a class or service. You’re partnering with a team who sees you as the expert of your own story. In turn, we equip you with tools to navigate pregnancy, birth, and early parenting with both confidence and calm.

Because peace of mind isn’t a perk—it’s the foundation.

Ready to Feel Supported?

Let’s talk about what peace of mind looks like for your journey. Lets Connect and start the conversation.

Spanning a 34-year career in the maternal health field, Kathy is an industry pioneer and the visionary behind Childbirth Concierge.  She honors all journeys to parenthood and feeding, and is committed to ensuring that parents feel seen, heard and valued while in her care.   As a mother of five herself, Kathy has considerable experience in preparing for the birth and care of newborns, and helps to empower parents by delivering peace of mind during what can at times be a challenging situation.  A born educator, she is in her element teaching new parents and health professionals.  She worked 14 years in Maternal Health at Winnie Palmer Hospital in Orlando and is a self-proclaimed “Birth JUNKIE”.

 

The Journey of a Birth Doula in Orlando: Empowering Families Through Every Step

The Journey of a Birth Doula in Orlando: Empowering Families Through Every Step

The Journey of a Birth Doula in Orlando: Empowering Families Through Every Step

Orlando is famous for its theme parks and sunny weather, but beneath the surface lies a vibrant community of families, each with their own unique journey into parenthood. As a birth doula in Orlando, I have the privilege of walking alongside these families during one of the most transformative and intimate moments of their lives: childbirth. It’s a role that involves not only emotional and physical support but also empowering families with the confidence and knowledge they need to navigate labor and delivery with grace and strength.

What It Means to Be a Doula in Orlando

The role of a birth doula is more than just providing support during labor—it’s about being an anchor for families through every stage of pregnancy and birth. From the moment a family contacts me, my goal is to create a space where they feel safe, heard, and empowered. In Orlando, a city filled with diversity, I encounter families from all walks of life. Some are first-time parents nervous about what’s to come, while others are experienced parents seeking a different type of support for their subsequent births.

Orlando is a melting pot of cultures, and with that comes a variety of traditions and beliefs surrounding birth. I’m honored to adapt my approach to meet each family’s needs, whether it’s offering bilingual support, understanding cultural preferences for the birth process, or working with non-traditional family structures. Being flexible and attuned to the unique needs of Orlando’s community is key to ensuring that every family feels valued and respected.

In-Person, Private, and Virtual: Flexibility is Key

One of the things I love most about working in Orlando is the diversity of options I can offer families. I provide in-person support during labor and facilitate childbirth classes in the heart of downtown, but I also offer private and virtual sessions. Some families prefer the intimacy of in-home classes, where we can dive deeper into personal concerns or practice hands-on techniques like comfort measures and breathing exercises. Others find that virtual classes allow them the flexibility to learn at their own pace from the comfort of home.

No matter the format, the focus is always the same: ensuring parents feel confident, informed, and prepared for the birth they envision. Whether it’s their first or fifth baby, every family deserves individualized attention and care.

Supporting Families During Labor: The Heart of Doula Work

The labor room is where everything comes together—the education, preparation, and emotional work that families have invested during their pregnancy. As a birth doula, I’m there to offer continuous support, both physical and emotional. From providing comforting words during contractions to suggesting positions that may help the labor progress, my goal is to ensure that families feel supported in whatever way they need most.

Orlando has a range of birth environments, from large hospitals to cozy birth centers, and even home births. Each birth setting brings its own energy and dynamic, and I adjust my approach accordingly. In the bustling environment of a hospital, I may focus on creating a calm, focused space, offering counter-pressure or massage, and helping parents communicate with their medical team. In a birth center or home birth, my role might center around providing quiet encouragement and hands-on physical support, while also allowing the space for the family’s personal preferences to unfold.

Navigating the Emotional Journey

Birth is not just a physical experience—it’s deeply emotional. My role as a doula is to help families embrace the full range of emotions that arise during labor. For some, it’s excitement and joy, while for others, there may be moments of fear, doubt, or overwhelm. I remind parents that these emotions are all part of the process, and I am there to guide them through, offering reassurance and calm.

I often tell families that birth is like a marathon. It requires endurance, mental strength, and a good support team. As their doula, I’m part of that team, cheering them on through every contraction, every moment of doubt, and every surge of strength. Witnessing the joy and relief when a new life finally arrives is the most rewarding part of my work. It’s the culmination of hours of effort, both from the birthing person and their support team, and I feel privileged to be a part of it.

A Special Place in My Heart for Orlando Families

I was born in Orlando, Wand working as a birth doula in Orlando gives me the opportunity to serve a wide variety of families, each with their own beautiful story. Whether it’s welcoming a baby at one of our local hospitals or supporting a home birth surrounded by loved ones, every birth leaves a lasting impact on me. There’s nothing quite like witnessing a family come together in the shared joy of bringing new life into the world.

Being a birth doula is a calling—one that I’m honored to answer every day in this vibrant city. The relationships I build with families often extend far beyond the delivery room. Watching these babies grow and seeing the families thrive post-birth fills my heart with joy. In a city known for its magic, there’s nothing more magical than the moment a new life enters the world.

If you’re expecting in Orlando and looking for support on your journey, know that you don’t have to go through it alone. Whether you’re seeking a calm, peaceful birth or preparing for a more intense experience, I’m here to help you feel confident, empowered, and ready to welcome your little one into the world.  Also consider becoming a doula as our profession is also growing.  

Feel free to share your thoughts or feedback! If you would like to add more specific anecdotes or details about your services, I’m happy to integrate them into the post.

Additional Resources

To Learn more on how How to become a doula check out our Training Program.

Check out my guest appearances on The Birth Ease Podcast.

How to Hire a Doula

https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5zaW1wbGVjYXN0LmNvbS9kbmozd2dLNQ/episode/N2YwOGMyYzAtNGNlOS00MDc3LWJlZDUtMGY0NzJjM2NiNGEw?ep=14

Doula Services and Labor Support

https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5zaW1wbGVjYXN0LmNvbS9kbmozd2dLNQ/episode/N2YwOGMyYzAtNGNlOS00MDc3LWJlZDUtMGY0NzJjM2NiNGEw?ep=14

Spanning a 34-year career in the maternal health field, Kathy is an industry pioneer and the visionary behind Childbirth Concierge.  She honors all journeys to parenthood and feeding, and is committed to ensuring that parents feel seen, heard and valued while in her care.   As a mother of five herself, Kathy has considerable experience in preparing for the birth and care of newborns, and helps to empower parents by delivering peace of mind during what can at times be a challenging situation.  A born educator, she is in her element teaching new parents and health professionals.  She worked 14 years in Maternal Health at Winnie Palmer Hospital in Orlando and is a self-proclaimed “Birth JUNKIE”.

 

Birth Doulas in Orlando: Empowering Families During Labor and Birth

Birth Doulas in Orlando: Empowering Families During Labor and Birth

Benefits of Birth Doulas in Orlando: Empowering Families During Labor and Birth

When preparing for the birth of your baby, there are countless decisions to make. One choice that can have a significant impact on your experience is hiring a birth doula. In Orlando, more and more expectant families are turning to doulas to guide them through the life-changing process of labor and delivery. But what exactly does a birth doula offer, and how can they enhance your childbirth experience? Let’s explore the benefits of hiring a birth doula in Orlando.

Continuous Emotional and Physical Support

One of the most significant benefits of having a birth doula is the continuous support provided throughout labor. Unlike medical staff, who may come and go during labor, a doula stays by your side the entire time. They offer reassurance, comfort measures, and emotional support, helping you feel safe and cared for. This is especially beneficial in hospital settings where staff may be attending to other patients.

Whether you’re having a hospital birth, home birth, or birth center experience in Orlando, your doula will be there to provide calm and steady encouragement.

Personalized Birth Plan Assistance

Navigating the many options for labor and birth can be overwhelming, but a birth doula helps you prepare in advance. By working closely with you before labor begins, your doula helps you create a birth plan tailored to your preferences. They can provide information on pain management techniques, birthing positions, and interventions, ensuring you make informed decisions.

Doulas are familiar with Orlando’s hospitals and birth centers, making them an invaluable resource for understanding local practices and options.

Pain Management and Comfort Techniques

Birth doulas are trained in various comfort measures, including breathing exercises, massage, and positioning techniques that help reduce the intensity of contractions. They can also suggest movement or water therapy if available, all aimed at making labor more manageable.

In Orlando, many doulas are also skilled in alternative therapies such as aromatherapy or acupressure, offering natural pain relief options for those who prefer to avoid medication.

Improved Birth Outcomes

Research shows that women who have a doula by their side during labor often experience better birth outcomes. Studies indicate that doulas can help reduce the likelihood of cesarean births, shorten labor duration, and lower the need for pain medications or medical interventions.

For Orlando families seeking a more natural or low-intervention birth, a doula can be a critical ally in advocating for your wishes and providing support when things get challenging.

Support for Partners

The role of the doula extends beyond the birthing person; they also support partners. A doula helps partners understand how to best assist during labor, offering them guidance and reassurance. This can deepen the connection between the birthing person and their partner and allow the partner to be more present and engaged during the experience.

In Orlando’s diverse birthing community, having a doula who works well with your partner or family members can create a more cohesive and supportive birth team.

Postpartum Care and Support

Many doulas offer postpartum services, helping new families adjust to life with a newborn. This support can include breastfeeding assistance, newborn care tips, and emotional encouragement. In Orlando, doulas are often well-connected with local resources such as lactation consultants, pediatricians, and postpartum support groups, helping you access the services you need.

Familiarity with Orlando’s Birthing Options

Orlando offers a wide range of birthing environments, from top-notch hospitals to birth centers and home birth options. A doula familiar with these settings can help you navigate local policies, medical staff preferences, and hospital procedures, making you feel more at ease in any situation. Whether you’re planning a hospital birth at Winnie Palmer Hospital or a more intimate experience at a birth center, your doula can help facilitate communication with your medical team.

Choosing a birth doula in Orlando can empower you and your partner during one of life’s most profound moments. From emotional and physical support to guidance on birthing options and techniques, a doula is there to ensure that your birth experience is as positive and fulfilling as possible. By providing continuous care and advocacy, doulas help families feel confident and supported from pregnancy through postpartum recovery.

If you’re expecting a baby in Orlando, consider adding a birth doula to your support team for a more personalized, informed, and empowered birth experience.  Be sure to read How to Hire a Doula with Peace of Mind!

Additional Resources

Check out my guest appearances on The Birth Ease Podcast.

How to Hire a Doula

https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5zaW1wbGVjYXN0LmNvbS9kbmozd2dLNQ/episode/N2YwOGMyYzAtNGNlOS00MDc3LWJlZDUtMGY0NzJjM2NiNGEw?ep=14

Doula Services and Labor Support

https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5zaW1wbGVjYXN0LmNvbS9kbmozd2dLNQ/episode/N2YwOGMyYzAtNGNlOS00MDc3LWJlZDUtMGY0NzJjM2NiNGEw?ep=14

Spanning a 34-year career in the maternal health field, Kathy is an industry pioneer and the visionary behind Childbirth Concierge.  She honors all journeys to parenthood and feeding, and is committed to ensuring that parents feel seen, heard and valued while in her care.   As a mother of five herself, Kathy has considerable experience in preparing for the birth and care of newborns, and helps to empower parents by delivering peace of mind during what can at times be a challenging situation.  A born educator, she is in her element teaching new parents and health professionals.  She worked 14 years in Maternal Health at Winnie Palmer Hospital in Orlando and is a self-proclaimed “Birth JUNKIE”.

 

How to Reduce Sleep Deprivation with a Newborn Baby

How to Reduce Sleep Deprivation with a Newborn Baby

Welcoming a newborn baby into your home is exciting however sleep deprivation with a new born is real!  It often comes with the challenge of sleepless nights and exhaustion. For new parents, sleep can feel like a distant memory, but it’s crucial for maintaining health and well-being.  This guide aims to provide practical tips and strategies to help postpartum families get the rest they need while caring for their newborn and how to reducing sleep deprivation.

Understanding Newborn Sleep Patterns

Typical Sleep Patterns of Newborns

Newborns have unique sleep patterns that differ significantly from adults. They typically sleep in short bursts of 2-4 hours throughout the day and night, totaling about 14-17 hours of sleep in a 24-hour period. Understanding these patterns can help parents set realistic expectations and plan accordingly.

How Sleep Changes Over Time

As babies grow, their sleep patterns gradually change. Around three months, many infants begin to consolidate sleep into longer stretches at night, though they still wake frequently for feedings. By six months, some babies may start sleeping for longer periods, though individual sleep needs and patterns can vary widely.

Creating a Sleep-Friendly Environment

Safe Sleep Practices for Babies

Ensuring your baby sleeps safely is paramount. Follow these guidelines:

  • Always place your baby on their back to sleep.
  • Use a firm mattress with a fitted sheet.
  • Keep the crib  or basinet free of loose bedding, pillows, and toys.
  • Share your room with your baby, but not your bed, for at least the first six months.

Setting Up a Calming Sleep Space

Create a soothing sleep environment by keeping the room dark, quiet, and cool. Blackout curtains can help block out light, and a white noise machine can provide consistent background sound that may help your baby sleep more soundly. This helpsto reduce sleep deprivation with a newborn baby.

Establishing a Routine

Importance of Consistent Schedules

Newborns thrive on consistency. Establishing regular sleep and feeding schedules can help regulate their internal clocks and make sleep more predictable. Try to stick to the same routine every day, even on weekends. Keep in mind that it is best practice with breastfeeding infants to feed on demand.

Bedtime Routines for Babies and Parents

A calming bedtime routine can signal to your baby that it’s time to sleep. This might include a warm bath, gentle rocking, and a lullaby. For parents, engaging in relaxing activities like reading or light stretching can help prepare for sleep.

Maximizing Sleep for Parents

Napping When Baby Naps

Taking advantage of your baby’s nap times to rest yourself is essential. Even short naps can help alleviate sleep deprivation and improve your energy levels and mood.

Sharing Nighttime Duties

Splitting nighttime duties with your partner can ensure both of you get some rest. Consider alternating shifts to balance the load and reduce fatigue and sleep deprivation with a newborn baby.

Utilizing Sleep Aids and Tools

Consider using sleep aids like white noise machines, swaddles, and pacifiers to help soothe your baby and create a restful environment. These tools can make a significant difference in your baby’s sleep quality. Here is a great quick video on How to pick a pacifier for the breastfed baby.

The Role of Professional Postpartum Support

Benefits of Postpartum Doulas

A postpartum doula is a trained professional who provides physical, emotional, and informational support to new families. They can assist with breastfeeding, newborn care, and household tasks, helping parents get much-needed rest and reducing stress.

How They Can Help

Some specialize in overnight care for infants, allowing parents to sleep through the night. They handle feedings, diaper changes, and soothing the baby back to sleep, providing invaluable support during the early months.

Practical Tips for Better Sleep

Managing Nighttime Feedings

If you’re breastfeeding, consider pumping 1 session once baby is about three to four weeks old so your partner can handle a feeding. If you’re formula-feeding, pre-mix bottles and keep them ready to minimize disruption during the night.

Reducing Nighttime Disruptions

Minimize disruptions by having essential items within reach—diapers, wipes, and feeding supplies. Keep nighttime feedings and diaper changes as quiet and calm as possible to help your baby (and you) return to sleep more easily.

Creating a Relaxing Bedtime Routine for Parents

Incorporate relaxing activities into your own bedtime routine. This might include reading, taking a warm bath, or practicing mindfulness or meditation. A calm mind can lead to better sleep quality.

Balancing Self-Care and Baby Care

Prioritizing Self-Care

Taking care of yourself is crucial for your ability to care for your baby. Prioritize activities that rejuvenate you, whether it’s a short walk, a hobby, or simply a few minutes of quiet time.

Incorporating Simple Self-Care Activities

Find simple self-care activities you can incorporate into your daily routine. This might include deep breathing exercises, stretching, or enjoying a cup of tea while your baby naps.

Long-Term Benefits of Self-Care

Consistently practicing self-care helps maintain your physical and mental health, making you more resilient and better equipped to handle the challenges of parenthood.

Partner Support and Communication

Involving Your Partner in Nighttime Routines

Involve your partner in nighttime routines to share the load. This teamwork approach ensures both parents get rest and strengthens your bond as you navigate parenthood together.

Communicating Needs and Expectations

Open communication with your partner about your needs and expectations is vital. Discuss how you can support each other and find solutions that work for both of you.

Importance of Teamwork

Effective teamwork can make a significant difference in managing sleep and stress. Approach parenting as a team effort, where both partners contribute to caring for the baby and supporting each other.

Extended Family and Community Support

How Friends and Family Can Help

Don’t hesitate to ask for help from friends and family. They can assist with household chores, cooking, or even taking care of the baby for a few hours so you can rest.

7 Sisters Approach

Identify 7 friends or family member who each take a day of the week and commite to reach out to you on their assigned day to call, bring or send a meal, run to the grocery store of come sit with you. This helps to spread out the support and is a new face and interaction each day of the week.

Utilizing Community Resources and Support Groups

Community resources and support groups can provide valuable assistance and a sense of camaraderie. Many organizations offer services for new parents, including childcare, counseling, and educational programs.

Importance of Asking for Help

Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Recognize that it’s okay to lean on others, and doing so can significantly improve your well-being and your ability to care for your baby. Always ask for help if your feel your sleep deprivation is affecting you.

Mental Health and Sleep

Recognizing Postpartum Depression and Anxiety

It’s important to be aware of the signs of postpartum depression and anxiety, which can include persistent sadness, overwhelming fatigue, and difficulty bonding with your baby. If you experience these symptoms, seek professional help.

How Sleep Deprivation Affects Mental Health

Chronic sleep deprivation can exacerbate mental health issues, leading to increased stress, irritability, and difficulty coping. Prioritizing sleep can help improve your mental health and overall well-being.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you or your partner are struggling with sleep deprivation with a newborn or mental health issues, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Therapists, counselors, and healthcare providers can offer support and treatment options.

 

Spanning a 34-year career in the maternal health field, Kathy is an industry pioneer and the visionary behind Childbirth Concierge.  She honors all journeys to parenthood and feeding, and is committed to ensuring that parents feel seen, heard and valued while in her care.   As a mother of five herself, Kathy has considerable experience in preparing for the birth and care of newborns, and helps to empower parents by delivering peace of mind during what can at times be a challenging situation.  A born educator, she is in her element teaching new parents and health professionals.  She worked 14 years in Maternal Health at Winnie Palmer Hospital in Orlando and is a self-proclaimed “Birth JUNKIE”.

 

Why doesn’t my baby sleep?  Tips from a from a sleep consultant

Why doesn’t my baby sleep? Tips from a from a sleep consultant

Sleep. Everyone loves sleep. Especially parents of a newborn baby! Just ask any mom or dad that has brought home a baby within the last couple months how important sleep is to them. As adults, our bodies have adjusted to sleep patterns.  It takes an infant’s body much longer to be able to sleep through the night!  And by the way what does “sleep through the night” really mean anyway?  Immense exhaustion and fatigue  leads to frustration and life can become overwhelming in a matter of sleepless nights. Some families  try to “train” their newborn to sleep though the night without understanding normal sleep patterns.  Additionally there are a sleep training methods out there that may not always best support the breastfeeding infant and can actually contribute to shortened duration of breast-feeding times.

Some methods and tips that work well and are more healthy for parents and babies! Consider the following tips to  help  take back your sleep. Jamie Ortiz, a Certified Child Sleep Consultant shares her top tips for parents of newborns.

WHITE NOISE.

Jamie says, “it was very loud in the womb so babies are used to sound. To keep their ears safe, keep it lower than 70 decibles and running for all sleep periods.” This is also great to keep sudden noises at bay that can startle them.

PITCH BLACK

There’s not much light in the womb and babies don’t produce melatonin until about 4 months of age. A pitch black room helps circadian rhythms and keeps out light that’s distracting. Let’s simulate the womb!

TIMING, TIMING, TIMING!

“Newborns need to be put down every 30-90 minutes.” This prevents them from being overtired. Once they get overtired it can take A LONG time for those hormone levels to come down.

Good Feedings!

Making sure your baby is satisfied before nap or bedtime is also an important piece to the happy sleep puzzle, so be sure they’re eating enough calories.

If you would like additional support to get more sleep, reach out. Jamie is also certified for fostered and adopted children.

www.littleonessleepsociety.com.        @littleonessleepsociety

Jamie Ortiz

“Let’s get better sleep, together!”

Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant