Birth Preferences: Making Informed Decisions About Your Birth

Name: Birth Preferences: Making Informed Decisions About Your Birth
Start: 2025-10-18T11:00:00-04:00
End: 2025-10-18T13:00:00-04:00
Location: 619 Brighton Avenue #101, Portland, ME, United States, Maine 04102

Schedule

Sat Oct 18 2025 at 11:00 am to 01:00 pm

UTC-04:00

Location

619 Brighton Avenue #101, Portland, ME, United States, Maine 04102 | Portland, ME

Pregnant people are asked to make decisions about their birth often without ever being given the information their need to feel confident in their choices (and many people do not realize how much choice they actually have in a hospital setting!)
It can be hard to find evidence-based information as well as information that can be applied to our local hospitals.
This 2-hour workshop is designed to change that.
People (especially BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and other historically marginalized people) often worry their preferences will be dismissed or that they will be labeled as "difficult".
Medical jargon can feel like a barrier to informed decision making. Friends & family may project their own experiences and what they think you "should" do.
Together we will walk through each section of a comprehensive birth preferences worksheet so you leave with a clear, informed plan that reflects your values, needs and desires.
What to expect:
- a short grounding practice to help connect with your inner wisdom
- information on how to create the atmosphere and "vibes" you want in the birth space
- detailed description of pain management options (non-medical comfort measures, medications, and the interventions that may come with them)
- an explanation of your choices around pushing, your placenta plans and who will be cutting the cord
a thorough overview of newborn procedures so you know what to expect
- guidance on how to communicate your choices with providers and hospital staff
This workshop is evidence-based, trauma-informed, and welcoming to all families. You'll have time to ask questions and will leave with a completed birth preferences sheet you can bring to your provider or birth team.
Details:
- Small group setting (limited to 4 pairs for an intimate, supportive vibe)
- $75 includes the pregnant person and one support person (please register the pregnant person in the next step)
- 2 hours of practical guidance from a doula with over 20 years experience
Walk away feeling empowered, informed, and confident about your birth.
About the Instructor:
Jess Fairclough (she/they) is a full spectrum doula and owner of Portland Doula Company. Jess has over 20 years of experience offering affirming and compassionate support for all pregnancy outcomes. Jess is passionate about creating spaces that nurture healing and empowerment. In addition to birth work, Jess is also a trauma-informed yoga teacher and Reiki Master.