Becoming a parent is a beautiful, life-changing experience—and it also comes with real-world logistics. California has some of the best programs in the country to support you financially during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum recovery, but the process can feel confusing at first.

This guide breaks it all down so you can plan ahead, protect your income, and understand how your Licensed Midwife helps along the way.

This is a basic summary of the stages of labor. For the most part, labor progresses in a predictable pattern.

“A well-fed mother builds a strong baby and a strong crone. Good nutrition during the birthing years is not just an act of nourishment for the children and for your labors and births, it sets the stage for vibrant health after your birthing years are done.”

For overdue moms or slow labors

Yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of Candida, particularly Candida albicans. Though normally harmless, when Candida multiplies, it can lead to symptoms like itching, irritation, abnormal discharge, and inflammation.

Gathering your birth supplies is an important step in preparing for your home birth. Most of the supplies you will need for the birth and immediate postpartum will be supplied by the midwife and brought to you to your birth “rehearsal” at 36 weeks (see below). Everything should be washed and ready by 36 weeks. It is YOUR BIRTH, so add or delete whatever of this list you like!

We want to get to know you and your family, your priorities and values, so we are better able to support you and provide highly individualized care during your pregnancy, labor, birth and postpartum.