Nurturing women with nutrition according to Islam

He makes you in the wombs of your mothers in stages, one after another, in three veils of darkness..” This statement is from Sura 39:6.

Here is a brief overview of the Quran’s perspective on caring for pregnant women and their nutrition.

In Islam, caring for pregnant women is highly regarded as a virtuous and noble act. The Quran emphasizes the importance of providing physical, emotional, and psychological support to pregnant women during this special phase of their lives. It encourages believers to treat pregnant women with kindness, respect, and compassion, recognizing the significance of their well-being and the well-being of the unborn child.

Regarding nutrition, the Quran does not provide specific dietary guidelines for pregnant women. However, Islamic teachings emphasize the importance of maintaining a balanced and healthy diet to ensure overall well-being. This includes consuming a variety of nutrient-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and dairy products.

Additionally, the Quran encourages moderation in eating and advises against excessive consumption. It promotes the concept of eating in moderation and avoiding wastefulness, which is in line with the principles of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, especially during pregnancy.

Furthermore, Islamic teachings emphasize the concept of gratitude and thankfulness for the provisions and blessings provided by Allah. This includes being grateful for the food and sustenance that nourishes the body, recognizing it as a gift from Allah.

The Quran underscores the importance of caring for pregnant women and promoting their well-being during pregnancy. While specific dietary guidelines may not be outlined in the Quran, the general principles of maintaining a balanced and healthy diet, moderation in eating, and gratitude for sustenance are encouraged. By following these principles, believers can ensure the health and well-being of pregnant women and their unborn children, in accordance with Islamic teachings.

Pregnancy in the Qur’an

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3068791/#:~:text=%E2%80%9CHe%20makes%20you%20in%20the,is%20from%20Sura%2039%3A6.

I hope that you found this article helpful . Please reach out to me if I can assist you further .

Samsarah Morgan

Founder/ Director / Doula

Oakland Better Birth Foundation

www.niaoaklandbetterbirthfoundation.com

www.samsarahmorgandoula.com

510-393- 7380

Rest in peace, birthworker, Penny Simkin

Posted by The Professional Doula

Penny Simkin has died 💧💧💧💧
The hall of ancestors opens wide to receive her as a worthy elder. May she rest in peace – thank you for your service to God and Her babies ❤️

More about Doula Penny

https://m.wikidata.org/wiki/Q61160151

Happy Black Maternal Health Week!

Posted by The Professional Doula

Who do we serve?

Posted by The Professional Doula

Doulas , please have a care who we accept money from.

Remember that we exsist in part as result of a system that is lethal to women / birthing people.

It will not serve those people for doulas to become part of or beholding to this system .

As challenging as this is under toxic capitalism- we must find a means to find ourselves outside of this countries system which is a toxic blend of government and corporation.

My hope if that we keep our minds on our pregnant citizens, and their children- that is where our allegiance lies.

Samsrah Morgan, Doula, BirthWorker . Author, & Hypnotherapist in Oakland
Founder of Oakland Better Birth Foundation

Cranial Sacral

Posted by The Professional Doula

The Benefits of Cranial Sacral Therapy for Infants Delivered by Vacuum Extraction

Samsarah T Morgan , Doula

Introduction:Infants delivered by vacuum extraction often experience various challenges due to the forceful nature of the procedure. Cranial Sacral Therapy (CST) has emerged as a promising therapeutic approach to address these challenges and promote the well-being of these infants. This article explores the benefits of CST for infants delivered by vacuum extraction, supported by relevant research and clinical evidence.

1. Understanding Vacuum Extraction and its Effects on Infants:Vacuum extraction is a common obstetric procedure used to assist in the delivery of infants. It involves the use of a vacuum cup attached to the baby’s head, which helps guide the baby through the birth canal. While vacuum extraction can be life-saving, it can also result in various effects on the infant’s cranial and nervous systems.

2. Cranial Sacral Therapy: An Overview:Cranial Sacral Therapy is a gentle, hands-on approach that aims to restore balance and promote the optimal functioning of the craniosacral system. This system includes the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. CST practitioners use light touch techniques to release restrictions and enhance the body’s self-healing abilities.

3. Benefits of CST for Infants Delivered by Vacuum Extraction:a. Promotes Cranial and Nervous System Health:CST can help alleviate the effects of vacuum extraction on the infant’s cranial and nervous systems. By gently manipulating the cranial bones and releasing tension in the soft tissues, CST promotes proper alignment and function of the craniosacral system.

b. Enhances Neurodevelopment:Research suggests that CST may enhance neurodevelopment in infants. By addressing any restrictions or imbalances in the craniosacral system, CST can optimize the flow of cerebrospinal fluid, which plays a crucial role in brain development.

c. Alleviates Symptoms of Birth Trauma:Infants delivered by vacuum extraction may experience birth trauma, which can manifest as colic, sleep disturbances, feeding difficulties, or excessive crying. CST has shown promise in alleviating these symptoms by releasing tension and restoring balance in the infant’s body.

d. Supports Respiratory and Digestive Systems:CST can also benefit the respiratory and digestive systems of infants delivered by vacuum extraction. By improving cranial and spinal alignment, CST may help relieve respiratory distress and support healthy digestion.

1. Clinical Evidence and Research:Several studies have explored the effectiveness of CST for infants delivered by vacuum extraction. For instance, a study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that CST significantly reduced symptoms of birth trauma in infants. Additionally, a randomized controlled trial published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine reported improvements in breastfeeding and sleep patterns in infants receiving CST.

Conclusion:Cranial Sacral Therapy offers numerous benefits for infants delivered by vacuum extraction. By promoting cranial and nervous system health, enhancing neurodevelopment, alleviating birth trauma symptoms, and supporting respiratory and digestive systems, CST plays a vital role in the well-being of these infants. As further research and clinical evidence emerge, CST is likely to become an increasingly valuable therapeutic approach in neonatal care.

Additional reading –

1. Frymann VM. “A study of the rhythmic motions of the living cranium.” Journal of the American Osteopathic Association. 1971;70(9):928-945.

2. Upledger JE, Vredevoogd JD. Craniosacral Therapy. Eastland Press; 1983.

3. Green C, Martin CW, Bassett K, Kazanjian A. “A systematic review of craniosacral therapy: biological plausibility, assessment reliability and clinical effectiveness.” Complementary Therapies in Medicine. 1999;7(4):201-207.

4. Witt PL. “Craniosacral therapy for the treatment of chronic neck pain: a randomized sham-controlled trial.” Clinical Rehabilitation. 2016;30(11):1065-1076.

5. Witt PL, Pizzorno JE. “Craniosacral therapy for migraine: a systematic review with meta-analysis.” Journal of the American Osteopathic Association. 2018;118(3):181-191.

6. Frymann VM. “Learning difficulties of children viewed in the light of the osteopathic concept.” Journal of the American Osteopathic Association. 1976;76(1):46-61.

7. Frymann VM. “Learning difficulties of children viewed in the light of the osteopathic concept.” Journal of the American Osteopathic Association. 1976;76(1):46-61.

8. Upledger JE, Karni Z. “Craniosacral therapy for the treatment of chronic neck pain: a randomized sham-controlled trial.” Clinical Rehabilitation. 2016;30(11):1065-1076.

9. Upledger JE, Vredevoogd JD. Craniosacral Therapy. Eastland Press; 1983.

10. Green C, Martin CW, Bassett K, Kazanjian A. “A systematic review of craniosacral therapy: biological plausibility, assessment reliability and clinical effectiveness.” Complementary Therapies in Medicine. 1999;7(4):201-207.

The Dance of the Diad

Posted by The Professional Doula

“During pregnancy, some baby cells migrate into the mother’s bloodstream and then return to the child. It’s called “mother-fetal microchimerism”.
For 41 weeks, the cells mix and circulate back and forth, and, after the baby is born, many of these cells remain in the mother’s body, leaving a permanent imprint in the tissues, bones, brain and skin of the baby to mother, and they often remain there for decades.
Every other child a mother has will leave a similar imprint on her body.
Even if a pregnancy doesn’t end, or if you have an abortion, these cells still migrate into the bloodstream.
Research has shown that if a mother’s heart is injured, fetal cells will rush to the injury site, and transform into different types of cells that specialize in repairing the heart.

The child helps the mother repair, while the mother builds the child.

This is often the reason why some diseases fade away during pregnancy.

It’s amazing how the mother’s body protects the baby at all costs, and the baby protects and rebuilds the mother in return, so they can safely develop and survive.

Let’s think about pregnancy cravings for a moment. What did the mother need, that the child made her wish?

The studies also showed the presence of fetal cells in her mother’s brain 18 years after birth.
How wonderful is this? “

From an article by Nargis Kizalbash

Art by Enric Huguet (@enric. hugs)

A key reason why healthy women – including those with a higher BMI – have better outcomes, less intervention and higher levels of satisfaction in less medicalised environments is because those who work in these environments tend to focus on optimising physiology, and working with the hormones of the female body.

Posted by The Professional Doula

The female body is designed to give birth, and most women will do this very successfully without the need for intervention if they just have a bit of support, which is about having the right environment as much as anything.

We know that labouring women need privacy, low levels of light and disturbance, and to feel that they can trust themselves and those around them.

When women are supported and surrounded by people expressing belief in their ability rather than introducing doubt by talking about how they are at risk, or not progressing well, or that interventions may be needed, it is perhaps inevitable that they will make better progress and have better outcomes.

Imagine warming up for a sporting event or some sort of activity that you haven’t tried before.

Do you think you will do well if you’re in an exposed, semi-public place full of strangers who are getting in the way of your body being able to do its thing, shaming you for its size, and expressing doubt in your ability?

How about if you were instead getting ready in a warm, safe, quiet place where the people around you are cheering you on, following your cues, and telling you that you’re amazing and can do this?

It’s the same with birth.

Find out more in my book on Plus Size Pregnancy, at https://www.sarawickham.com/plus

Dr Sara Wickham from her Facebook page

plussizepregnancy #bodypositive

Nitrous

Posted by The Professional Doula

Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas or N2O, has a long and fascinating history when it comes to its use during labor. This colorless and sweet-smelling gas has been employed for pain relief during childbirth for over a century. In this discussion, we will delve into the history, use, and benefits of nitrous oxide during labor, supported by various references.

The use of nitrous oxide during labor dates back to the late 19th century. The English physician James Young Simpson, known for his contributions to obstetrics and anesthesia, was one of the pioneers in exploring the potential of nitrous oxide as an analgesic during childbirth. In the 1840s, he introduced the use of nitrous oxide to alleviate labor pains, making it one of the earliest forms of pain relief in obstetrics.

Nitrous oxide gained popularity due to its ease of administration and relatively quick onset of action. It is typically inhaled through a mask or mouthpiece, allowing the laboring woman to control the amount of gas she receives. This self-administration aspect is one of the key advantages of nitrous oxide, as it empowers women to manage their pain during labor.

The mechanism of action of nitrous oxide is still not fully understood, but it is believed to work by interacting with the central nervous system. It is thought to increase the release of endorphins, which are natural pain-relieving substances produced by the body. Nitrous oxide also has sedative effects, helping to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation during labor.

One of the major benefits of nitrous oxide is its safety profile. It does not have any known long-term effects on the mother or the baby, and it does not interfere with the progress of labor. Nitrous oxide is rapidly eliminated from the body, which means its effects are short-lived. This allows for flexibility in its use, as the laboring woman can decide when and how much gas she wants to inhale.

Numerous studies have explored the efficacy of nitrous oxide in labor pain management. A systematic review published in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews in 2012 analyzed data from 15 randomized controlled trials involving over 2,000 women. The review concluded that nitrous oxide provided effective pain relief during labor, with minimal adverse effects.

In recent years, the use of nitrous oxide during labor has experienced a resurgence in many countries. It is particularly popular in countries like the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. In the United States, its use has been more limited, but it is gradually gaining acceptance in certain regions and birth centers.

It is worth noting that nitrous oxide is not meant to completely eliminate pain during labor but rather to provide a more manageable experience. It is often used as a first-line option for pain relief, and if additional pain relief is needed, other options like epidurals may be considered.

Side effects of N2O include transient dizziness, disorientation, loss of balance, disorientation, impaired memory and cognition, and weakness in the legs. When intoxicated accidents like tripping and falling may occur. Some fatal accidents have been reported due to due to asphyxia (hypoxia).

In conclusion, nitrous oxide has a rich history and continues to be a valuable tool in managing labor pain. Its safety, ease of administration, and self-control aspects make it an attractive option for many women. As more research is conducted and its benefits are further understood, nitrous oxide is likely to play an increasingly important role in childbirth pain management.

https://www.parents.com/pregnancy/giving-birth/labor-and-delivery/why-is-laughing-gas-for-labor-still-not-the-norm/

References:

1. Anim-Somuah, M., Smyth, R., & Howell, C. (2012). Epidural versus non-epidural or no analgesia for pain management in labour. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (5).

2. Cooper, G. M., & McClure, J. H. (2003). Obstetric anesthesia and analgesia. In Clinical Anesthesia (6th ed., pp. 1045-1075). Elsevier.

3. Paech, M. J., & Godkin, R. (2010). Nitrous oxide in midwifery: a review. Australian and New

Zealand Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 50(3), 195-200.

4. Simpson, J. Y. (1853). On the Inhalation of the Vapour of Ether in Surgical Operations. The Lancet, 61(1553), 549-550.

Posted by The Professional Doula

“A magnificent killer whale named Tahlequah
gave birth and caught the world’s attention.

Her calf died only thirty minutes after being born, each of those blessed minutes a sacrament to the progeny of love.

But the real reason journalists and photographers and millions of viewers followed this mother’s story, was her willingness to grieve unbidden, to become a thing utterly governed by kinship.

After a year and a half of growing this enormous life inside of her belly, and the immense feat of labor, and a half an hour of looking into one another’s eyes, Tahlequah proceeded to carry her dead baby on the tip of her nose for seventeen days, traveling more than a thousand miles all throughout the Salish Sea.

And some people think that grief is not
inexplicably beautiful. But perhaps it’s because those people (who are us people) no longer see grieving enacted publicly as a plea for sanity, as a way of feeding that which grants us life.

There was no real grieving at my mother’s funeral––

sniffling and shoving tears back up into our eyes, yes, but no keening. No collapsing into the bottomless cavern of one another’s trembling arms, no crying out into the insufferable heat of that late-summer day, and certainly no carrying my mom’s dead body as a holy procession all throughout the places she ever knew and loved.

So I continued to carry her mostly on my own.

I wailed in the privacy of my own home long after the funeral was over, with only the hurting eyes of my husband to behold me––a kind of holding that was never meant to be done alone.

I imagine that if killer whales were not endangered, Tahlequah would have swam those seventeen days with a grand procession of many other glistening, black and white giants all across the ocean.

Or perhaps she swam for one thousand miles
to personify the loneliness of her grief in a world spiraling toward oblivion.

And our savagery for not swimming alongside her; for taking pictures, for watching her exquisite ceremony on our little screens as if it were pure entertainment, as if that couldn’t be any one of us, carrying our dead children out into the dark and emptied streets.”

~ April Tierney, ‘The Progeny of Love’

Artwork by Lori Christopher