Written By: Hira Hassan Do you see the two muscles running down each side of the pelvis from the spine and attaching to the top side of both femurs? The muscles that connect our upper body to our lower body? They are the PSOAS muscles. Also known as "The Muscle of the Soul" and "The Trauma Muscle". Tension in these muscles may actually prolong your labor and make it difficult for baby to engage in the pelvis! Tension in the muscle can be caused by our modern lifestyle: Sitting for Prolonged periods of time Running (excessively) Biking (excessively) Any position [...]

Written By: Faheema Z. Mohammed (The Doula Coach) A breech presentation occurs when the baby is positioned with its buttocks or feet towards the cervix instead of the head. This occurs in about 3-4% full-term pregnancies. Historically, breech babies were often delivered vaginally, but over the years, the practice has shifted towards caesareans due to perceived risks and lack of training in vaginal breech delivery techniques. As a doula in the Middle East, I have encountered an increasingly large number of clients who are forced into believing that their breeched babies can only be delivered via a caesarean. While caesareans [...]

Written By: Nabira Safiullah Every April , C-Section Awareness Month offers an important opportunity to recognize, support, and empower mothers who have experienced a cesarean birth. Whether it was planned or unexpected, a C-section is major surgery—and those who go through it deserve acknowledgment, empathy, and compassionate care during their recovery. Acknowledging the Journey: A C-section is not the “easy way out.” It’s a powerful, sometimes life-saving procedure that can bring both relief and emotional complexity. Many moms face feelings of disappointment, guilt, or trauma after a C-section, especially if their birth didn’t go as planned. It's okay to grieve [...]

Written By: Anisah Abdullah In today’s world, the journey into motherhood often begins with uncertainty. For many women, birth has become something to fear rather than something to embrace. But when we take a step back and look through the lens of faith, we remember something powerful—Allah’s design is flawless, and birth is part of that perfect creation. From the rhythmic surges of labor to the natural release of hormones that ease pain and strengthen contractions, birth is not a random event. It’s a sacred process, intricately woven into our bodies with wisdom and care. Allah, in His mercy, created [...]

Written By: Nabira Safiullah The miraculous birth of Isa (AS) is a symbol of Allah’s power, strength, and surrender. Maryam (AS) gave birth alone in a remote place, without medical intervention, relying on her spiritual connection with Allah. For centuries, women have birthed naturally, trusting in their bodies and divine support. Maryam’s (AS) experience is a timeless example of this sacred process. Solitude and Strength Maryam (AS) withdrew to a remote location when she was pregnant, and in Surah Maryam, we learn she gave birth alone under a date palm tree. This moment reflects that childbirth is a natural, intimate [...]

Written By: Faheema Mohammed As an active doula in a very busy and demanding city, I understand the profound impact I have on the lives of the families I support. My presence whether during pregnancy, childbirth, or postpartum can be a source of immense comfort, guidance, and strength. However, the nature of my work is undeniably unpredictable, and emergencies can arise at any moment. This is precisely why having a "back-up" doula is not just a good idea, it's honestly an essential component of my service. For example, about two years ago, there was a client who was due at [...]

Written By: Faheema Z. Mohammed As an AMANI Birth Advanced Doula and Childbirth Educator for over five years, I have had the privilege of witnessing the profound impact that a husband's involvement can have on the pregnancy, childbirth, and labor experiences of his wife. This journey is not just a physical one but an emotional and psychological transformation for both partners. Yet, most pregnant wives must still go through the journey by themselves, alone, as some husbands are either too busy or are led to believe that birth is a woman’s business. Unfortunately, this type of husband with their lack of [...]

Written By: Nabira Safiullah Childbirth isn’t just a physical event—it’s a powerful hormonal journey. When undisturbed, your body releases a perfect cocktail of hormones that guide you through labor with strength, calm, and connection. Understanding these natural chemicals can help you trust your body and embrace the beauty of natural birth. Oxytocin – The Love Hormone Oxytocin is the key hormone driving labor. It causes your uterus to contract and keeps labor progressing steadily. But beyond that, oxytocin is the hormone of love, safety, and bonding. It’s released during intimacy, hugs, and even breastfeeding. In a peaceful birthing environment, oxytocin [...]