Knowledge-Based Birth לידה עם ידע

Online KBBirth Preparation Course

by Lea Reichel, MA, Birth Educator, Doula, B.O.T.

Congratulations & b'shaa tova!

I'm Lea, a doula and birth educator, offering this in-depth course to guide you through every step of your pregnancy, birth, and postpartum journey in Israel. This course is specifically designed to ensure that expecting parents like you can feel fully prepared and empowered as you navigate through this exciting chapter of your life.

Reimbursements are available through your Kupat Cholim & several hospitals!

Birth Package Deluxe

Comprehensive Package for Personalized Preparation

Deluxe Package offers thorough preparation, personalized support with a private session, direct communication with me via WhatsApp, and a supportive package delivered to your home. All expectant parents I support as a doula in Jerusalem receive the deluxe package!

  • Self-paced online course

  • 2-hour private session (online or in Jerusalem)

  • Private WhatsApp support

  • WhatsApp & Facebook group access, with additional tips and tricks every other week.

  • GIFT BASKET: A home-delivered package including a birth ball, course notes booklet, affirmation cards, printed materials, and a room spray for birth

Costs: 990NIS

To join, simply click on the button below, fill out the form, click 'PayPal,' and then choose your preferred payment method (credit card or PayPal). For bit, paybox, or bank transfer, please contact me. After registration, I'll send a form to you to choose the ball color and personalize the room spray.

Birth Ready Essentials

Online Course for Self-Paced Learning

Ideal for self-directed learners, this package allows you to prepare at your own pace, ensuring thorough readiness from the comfort of your home.

  • Self-Paced Online Course (9 months access)

  • Self-Printable Materials / Online Resources

  • WhatsApp & Facebook group access, with additional tips and tricks every other week.

  • Availability for Questions via Facebook group & comments in the course

Costs: 590₪

To select this package, enter the code 'Essentials' as the discount code during checkout. Once you click on 'PayPal,' you will have the option to pay by credit card or through PayPal. If you wish to pay via bit, paybox, or bank transfer, please contact me.

Course Content & Preview

You can preview some of the lessons. To do so, click on the '+' icon in the list of the chapters below and then select 'preview' on the right side, which will appear next to some of the lessons.

1. The Birth of Birth

Welcome to Knowledge-Based Birth! I am thrilled that you have found your way here. Let's get started with preparing for the birth of your little one!

This chapter serves as a brief introduction to birth and birth culture. As a historian, I believe that history can provide us with valuable insights into ourselves and our society. Birth is not just a biological process; it encompasses so much more. That is why this birth course begins with a short history of birth before delving into the actual birth preparation.

Study time: 27 minutes of video and audio content + additional written content

1. Welcome to Knowledge-Based Birth!
Preview
2. How to Navigate This Course?
Preview
3. What is Birth?
4. A Short History of Birth
5. WhatsApp & Facebook-Group
6. Progressive Head & Shoulders Relaxation
Preview
7. Pregnant in Israel - The KBBirth Guide

2. The Science of Birth

This chapter is designed to help you understand the biological and hormonal processes that occur during birth for both the mother and the baby. This knowledge will increase your confidence and serve as the foundation for comprehending how the tools and techniques you will learn later on work.

Study time: 49 minutes of video content

1. Physiological Childbirth
2. Basic Anatomy
3. Muscles & Birth
4. Pain and Why I Call Contractions Waves
5. Only 2 cm?
6. One More Thing About the Uterus Muscles
7. And the Baby?
Preview
8. An Accordion?
9. Hormones & Stress
10. Give Me Some Love, Baby
11. Hormone Cycles

3. Relaxation Techniques & Orientation during Pregnancy & Birth

The tools of relaxation and orientation are essential in supporting optimal physiological processes during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum, as learned in the previous chapter. These techniques facilitate muscle relaxation and, most importantly, help you feel comfortable, relaxed, and confident. In this chapter, you will discover relaxation techniques that can be utilized during any type of birth, empowering you to handle any challenges that may arise with confidence. They can also help to feel more confident and comfortable during birth. Later in the course, we will also discuss how to use these techniques during different types of birth such as c-sections, inductions, etc. In addition, you will learn more practical tips for comfort in chapter 8.

Try these techniques for around 2 weeks and then decide which work for you!

39 minutes of video and audio content + exercises / summaries

1. Could You Go for No. 2? Birth Environment
2. Exercise: Birth Environment
3. Door Sign
4. Where am I? Orientation
5. How to Use Relaxation Techniques
6. Guided Relaxations
7. Simple Head & Shoulder Relaxation
8. Relaxation Scripts
9. Stroking Massage
10. Self-Relaxation
11. Creating Anchors
12. Exercise: Your Anchors

4. The Big Day (Birthday Party!)

This chapter aims to address all your questions about the actual birth process, including: How can you tell if you are in labor? When should you consider transferring to your birthplace? What are the indications that birth is imminent? By the end of this chapter, you will have a clearer understanding of the process of birth.

Study time: 62 minutes if video content + exercises

1. The Due Date Myth
2. Is the Birth Starting?
3. 1st Stage of Labor
4. Transfer to the Birth Place
5. Baby is coming!
6. Tear & Episiotomy Prevention
7. Birth of the Placenta & Golden Hour
8. What If I Need Stitches....?
9. Cord Clamping
10. Hospital Stay
11. Exercise: Pack your Bag

5. Interventions & Medical Pain Relief Options

Please be aware that this chapter, as well as the next, might be scary, or triggering for some. If you experience any stress, take breaks, and consider using the resources or anchors that you already know.

Remember, knowledge is power! Many women are unprepared for situations when things do not go according to plan, and they may feel disempowered or even guilty when interventions are necessary. By learning about possible interventions, you can make informed decisions that are right for your individual situation and feel empowered, regardless of how the birth unfolds. Additionally, this chapter will cover the benefits and risks of medical pain relief options.

Study time: 60 minutes video content + exercises / summaries

1. Some Words about Interventions
2. Standard Interventions
3. Induction? Sirus? Augmentation? Instrumental Birth?
4. When you Birth Through your Belly (C-Section)
5. Options for a Family-Centered C-Section
6. C-Section Relaxation
7. Pain Relief Drugs
8. Epidural
9. Table: Risks & Benefits of Interventions & Drugs

6. Navigating the Maternity Care System

The focus of this chapter is to empower you to navigate your birth journey with confidence. You will gain knowledge about how to make informed decisions, effectively communicate with healthcare providers, and what actions to take if you feel disempowered. Furthermore, you will become aware of your rights as a patient, ensuring that you are informed and equipped to advocate for yourself and your baby if needed. By the end of this chapter, you will feel confident and prepared to advocate for the birth experience that you desire.

Study time: 41 minutes of video content + exercises / summaries

1. Maternity Care System
2. This is YOUR Birth - Decisions and Rights
3. When You Feel Infantilized
4. How to Navigate Conversations
5. When Something is not "Average"
6. Summary: How to Make Decisions
7. Exercise: Medical Scenarios
8. How to Have a Positive Birth with Interventions
9. Birth Place Options
10. Seeking Medical Care
11. Hebrew-English Birth Dictionary
12. WHO Recommendations Pregnancy
13. WHO Recommendations Birth

7. Preparation of the Mind

It is important to recognize that birth is not just a physical process but also an emotional one. Emotional preparation is vital in understanding how language and mindset can influence our birth experience. Preparing your mind for birth, acknowledging and learning from fears, rather than suppressing them, are all essential aspects of emotional preparation. In this chapter, you will gain insights into how to approach emotional preparation, ensuring that you are mentally and emotionally prepared to experience the transformative process of birth.

Study time: 46 minutes video content + exercises

1. Birth in our Society
2. Mind & Birth
3. Fears
4. Exercise: A Meeting with your Fears
5. Fear Release and Find Trust Relaxation
6. Think like an Athlete
Preview
7. Mindful Language
8. Positive Reinforcement
9. Affirmation Cards
10. Positive Birth Stories

8. Practical Tools for an Active Birth

The focus of this chapter is on providing you with a range of comfort measures and practical tools to support you and your birth partner in achieving a positive birth experience. You will discover various techniques such as movement, different birth positions, breathing exercises, non-medical pain relief, and more. In addition, you will receive a practical tool table and summary, allowing your birth partner to have quick and easy access to the information they need on the big day.

It is recommended that you not only watch the instructional videos but also try out each technique for yourself. Toward the end of the chapter, you will find a labor rehearsal exercise that will help you and your partner practice and prepare for the big day. By the end of this chapter, you will feel confident in your ability to utilize these comfort measures and practical tools during labor and delivery.

Study time: 68 minutes of video content + exercises and summaries

1. Birth Tools for Comfort
2. Breathing Techniques & Visualization for the 1st Stage of Birth
3. Exercise: Up-Breathing
4. Breathing Techniques & Visualization for the 2nd Stage of Birth
5. Use your Voice
6. Optimal Fetal Positioning during Prengancy and Birth
7. Move it! Movement during Pregnancy & Birth
8. Birth Positions
9. Birth Scarf
10. More Practical Tools
11. Active Epidural
12. IMPORTANT Summary! How to Use These Tools
13. Table: Summary of Tools
14. Important Summary for the Big Day (for the Birth Partner)
15. Exercise: Labor Rehearsal
16. Editable Birth Plan
17. Practice Schedule

9. The 4th Trimester & Postpartum

While the birth of your baby is a significant milestone, it is essential to remember that birth does not end there. The postpartum period is also a critical aspect of this transformative experience. Unfortunately, many new parents fail to adequately prepare for this phase, often feeling pressured to "bounce back" quickly.

This chapter is dedicated to helping you think ahead to the fourth trimester and postpartum period. You will learn about the practical and emotional aspects of preparing for this stage. By the end of this chapter, you will feel empowered and equipped with the knowledge and resources needed to navigate the postpartum period with confidence and ease.

Study time: 103 minutes of video content + exercises and summaries

1. Postpartum Matters!
Preview
2. Your Body After Birth
3. Pelvic Floor & Diastasis Recti
4. Basic Pelvic Floor Strengthening for Pregnancy & Postpartum
5. More Pelvic Floor Exercises
6. Abdominal Birth Recovery Tips + Scar Massage
7. The Baby
8. The Parents
9. Tools for Postpartum
10. New You - Postpartum Relaxation
11. Birth Processing
12. Exercise - Write Your Birth Story
13. Feeding the Baby
14. Introduction to Breastfeeding
15. Breastfeeding Tips (print it!)
16. Editable Postpartum Plan

10. Get Excited!

Congratulations, you have come to the end of this course, and you should feel proud of yourself for investing in your birth experience. The last chapter contains the final lessons, and you can also find the course booklet, which serves as a helpful resource to refer to during your birth journey.

As you move forward, remember that birth is a unique and personal experience. It is essential to approach it with an open mind and trust in yourself and your body's abilities. Remember the tools and techniques you have learned throughout this course, and feel empowered to make informed decisions that align with your individual needs and preferences.

May your birth experience be everything you hoped for and more, filled with love, joy, and empowerment!

Study time: 8 minutes of video and audio content + summaries and written content

1. Bye Bye!
2. Empowerment Relaxation
3. The Course Notes Booklet
4. Read This When You Are 31 Weeks Pregnant
5. Read This When You Are 37 Weeks Pregnant
6. Rapid Birth or Unplanned Home Birth
7. Allow Me to Learn from You!

The Story

Hi! I am Lea.

MA, doula, birth educator, B.O.T.

Embracing the awe and wonder of the incredibly powerful journey of birth, I also recognized the limitations of birth education options in Israel. This motivated me to create a truly special course - one that provides comprehensive, inclusive, and accessible birth education. I'm particularly proud of combining centuries-old women-led wisdom with modern, evidence-based knowledge, that my academic background allows me to do. I even make sure to include links to research when discussing medical aspects of birth.

In 2015, I moved from Germany to Jerusalem where I live with my husband and two sons. Here you can learn about me, my qualifications, and my fascination for birth. 

FAQ

What topics are covered?

Everything you need to know to feel prepared for your birth:

How childbirth functions:
  • physiological processes and how to support these processes during any birth
What happens during birth:
  • birth stages, when and how to transfer, pushing, the first hours after birth
Practical comfort measures:
  • using your voice, birth scarf, movement, positions,  breathing techniques, and  more 
Birth choices to make:
  • birthplace options, how to choose a birthplace
Preparation of the birth partner:
  • how to support the mother, and emotional preparation of the father/other parent
Navigating the maternity care system: 
  • drug options, common interventions, how to make decisions, conversations, tips for a positive birth with interventions and a positive c-section
Relaxation techniques for pregnancy, birth, and postpartum:
  • guided relaxations, self-relaxation, anchors, orientation
Emotional preparation: 
  • how to prepare the mind, fears
Postpartum preparation: 
  • elements of postpartum, body, baby, parents, making a plan, feeding the baby, introduction to breastfeeding
A healthy body: 
  • how to prevent tears, activate the pelvic floor

And so much more!
For a detailed list of the chapters and lessons, see below.

What is included in the course?

If you sign up for the KBBirth Prep course you receive access to the course for 9 months!
  • 60+ videos (around 7 hours)
  • exercises to do at home 
  • course notes booklet
  • guided relaxation mp3s
  • 10 relaxation scripts 
  • affirmation cards
  • access to private fb-community
  • Hebrew-English birth dictionary
  • editable birth plan
  • postpartum plan 
  • a summary for the big day (for the birth partner)
  • and so much more

How do I know if this course is for me?

For parents seeking to invest in one of life's most significant experiences, if not the most significant, this course offers essential preparation for the life-changing events of pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. Expecting parents who desire empowerment, knowledge, and confidence will find this course particularly beneficial.

If you are not sure yet if you want to do the course, schedule a short phone call with me so we can figure this out together. You'll have the opportunity to ask me anything about the KKBirth Course that I created and make a decision that is RIGHT FOR YOU.

You can also watch preview videos in the list of chapters below.

When should I start this course?

Whenever you feel it's time to start preparing for your birth! This might be right at the beginning of your pregnancy, or only in week 36.  

If you want to have enough time to practice but don't want to start preparing too early, starting around weeks 25-27 is ideal as it will give you ample time to learn in-depth and practice various techniques, such as relaxation methods, anchors, and birthing positions. 

If you are experiencing high levels of anxiety regarding pregnancy and birth and/or feel that learning about the birthing process would benefit you, I encourage you to start your learning journey as early as you feel comfortable, even if you are only 6 weeks pregnant. The course also helps navigate pregnancy more calmly, so if you want to start early, go for it! You can also watch the videos several times, and repeat some at the end of your pregnancy.  

That being said, if you are further along in your pregnancy, don't worry! You can still benefit from the course material by dedicating a weekend to studying everything at once. Additionally, I have included a brief description of the most important videos for those who are close to giving birth and unable to complete the entire course under the second lesson. 

I want a natural birth, is this course for me?

Yes, definitely! 
The birth preparation course is designed to support a woman's body during labor and delivery without the use of medical interventions or pain relief medications, making it suitable for those who desire a natural birth experience. The course provides a range of education and tools, including breathing techniques, relaxation exercises, physical movements, and knowledge about natural processes of the body during birth, that can help facilitate a smoother and more comfortable birth process.

These techniques help women increase comfort, and create a sense of confidence throughout the process. Additionally, the course provides information on the different stages of labor, the role of a birth partner, and how to create a birth plan to help guide healthcare providers in supporting the desired birth experience.

While the course is designed to support natural birth, it also provides information on how to navigate and communicate with healthcare providers to ensure that the birth experience aligns with a woman's wishes and needs. By understanding your options and knowing how to communicate your needs effectively, you can feel empowered and confident during the birth process.

I want an epidural, is this course for me?

Yes, of course! This birth preparation course is suitable for birth with epidural because it provides education and tools that can help support a woman's body during labor and delivery, regardless of whether she chooses to have an epidural or not. Additionally, the course provides information on what to expect when using an epidural, how to communicate with healthcare providers to ensure a positive experience, and how to position the body to help facilitate labor progress and optimal fetal positioning. By providing this information and support, the course can help facilitate a smoother birth with epidural and empower women to make informed decisions about their birth experience.

I've done this course before, can I get a discount?

You did the KBB course in the past and are pregnant again? Bshaa tova! The second time around you receive the course for only 300₪, the deluxe package for 600₪. The second time you join you receive lifetime access (as long as I offer the online course). Send me a message to receive a coupon code!

How can I pay?

You can pay with paypal or a credit card here on this webpage and you will have direct access to the course. After you click on "paypal" you will have the option to pay with your paypal account or with a credit or debit card. 

You can also send me the payment through bit and paybox - I will give you access within three working days and usually much faster. 

I will send you the receipt within 6 working days.

Is there no personal communication with you? Can I meet you in-person too?

Firstly, I am available for questions through the Facebook group of the course and in the comments section under each lesson for all participants.

If you opt for the deluxe package, I am also available via WhatsApp for one personal meeting that can be conducted either online or in person in Jerusalem.


I also offer group courses, private and semi-private courses, birth processing, personal preparation for survivors, and more.

How long do I have access to the course?

9 months. 

But don't worry, if you want to watch the course again because you are pregnant again - you can access the course for only 300NIS! Just send me an email and I will send you a coupon.

What is "knowledge-based"?

Knowledge-Based Birth covers all the different types of knowledge that are helpful during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. In addition to the knowledge about physiological processes, tools for comfort, evidence-based information about medical options and intervention, the course explores self-knowledge, including knowledge about individual fears and preferences - for a positive birth in Israel. 

Because knowledge is power – and birth is powerful. 

When you know about the hormones that help or disturb birth and about the physiological processes and stages of birth, then you can learn to trust your body and use practical tools for a better birth. When you know the advantages and disadvantages of different birth options and medical interventions then you can make the right decisions for your individual situation. 

When you take the time to gather self-knowledge, you will know what YOU need to feel safe and to trust your body and decisions.
the physiological processes and stages of birth, 

What method or approach does this course use?

The "YOU-METHOD" 

With so many approaches and methods available to pregnant women, it can be overwhelming to choose a birth preparation course and doula. Using one specific approach may help some but not others. Many of these organizations use pyramid schemes and sell their "unique methods", teachers often have to pay fees to be on a list, have to sell certain books, etc.

Instead, I recognize that every expecting parent is unique, and I am committed to supporting you in finding what works best for you. I do not believe in imposing a particular method on you and blaming you if it does not work.

This course does not limit itself to a single method. Instead, it draws upon the best aspects of different approaches and guides you on a journey of self-discovery to determine what suits you best. The course is independent and will help you transform your intuition into knowledge through discovery, learning, and practicing. 

The "YOU-METHOD" means that I support you in identifying what you need.

Two widely known methods that are partly integrated are hypnobirthing and active birth.

One of the central principles of hypnobirthing is the connection between the mind and body. The practice assumes that the mind and body are intimately linked, and that the mental and emotional states of the mother can affect the physiological processes of labor and delivery. By using hypnobirthing techniques to promote relaxation and focus, women can work with their bodies during labor, rather than feeling like they are fighting against it. The most central parts that teach hypnobirthing are videos about hormones during birth (2.9.-2.11.), relaxation techniques from hypnobirthing (3.1.-3.3. & 3.5.-3.9.), the mind-body connection, and positive reinforcement (7.1., 7.2. & 7.5.-7.10.).

Active birth is an approach to childbirth that emphasizes the mother's active involvement during labor and delivery. It encourages women to move around, change positions, and use non-medical techniques to manage pain and facilitate birthing. Active birth principles are based on the idea that by working with the physiological processes of labor, women can have a more positive childbirth experience. The course also includes an explanation of how to use the techniques associated with active birth alongside medical pain relief such as an epidural. The most central chapter for active birth methods is Chapter 8. 


Is this a hypnobirthing course?

No, I am not affiliated with any hypnobirthing organization. However, I do believe that many parts of hypnobirthing are really amazing. I am certified in hypnobirthing, so I have incorporated many elements of it into the course.

Hypnobirthing emerged as part of the natural birth movement, which opposed the prevailing trend of medicated births where women were often unable to recall their experience, and forceps were frequently used. Understanding its historical context helps to acknowledge its legitimacy, but it is important to recognize that some aspects of hypnobirthing are outdated, but are anyway taught in many of the "original" hypnobirthing courses. The following are some problematic aspects: 

1. In older hypnobirthing books, there are statements suggesting that birth only hurts if a woman fails to follow hypnobirthing techniques correctly. This implies that any pain experienced during childbirth is the woman's fault. Such claims are not conducive to a supportive and empowering environment.

2. Some medical aspects of hypnobirthing are not evidence-based. For example, there may be claims in certain books that consuming enough leafy greens ensures sufficient vitamin K levels in breast milk to prevent Vitamin K deficiency bleeding. However, research contradicts this claim.

3. In my opinion, acknowledging and discussing pain is important. Some hypnobirthing methods completely disregard the topic of pain. While it is beneficial not to fixate solely on pain, omitting its discussion may lead to inadequate preparation, especially for first-time mothers.

4. Hypnobirthing sometimes falls short in providing practical tools like movement, use of voice, and being active, which many women find crucial during childbirth.

5. The notion that a calm birth and being quiet during birth are desirable is problematic. Some women find it helpful to vocalize and make sounds during birth, and it can be a valuable coping mechanism. Women should feel empowered to express themselves in whatever way feels right to them. The idea that women must always be quiet and conform to societal expectations of being a "good girl" should be a thing of the past.

6. Importantly, I do not appreciate that most hypnobirthing courses claim to be suitable for any type of birth but then use language in their relaxation techniques that exclusively focus on natural birth. For instance, phrases like "you will have a natural, calm, and serene birth" can induce guilt or inadequacy in individuals who prefer or require a different birth approach because of preferences or due to medical reasons.

Despite these concerns, there are numerous exceptional doulas and birth educators who teach hypnobirthing. I believe that many aspects of hypnobirthing are valuable, which is why I have integrated them into this course. One of the central principles of hypnobirthing is the connection between the mind and body. The practice assumes that the mind and body are intimately linked and that the mental and emotional states of the mother can affect the physiological processes of labor and delivery. By using hypnobirthing techniques to promote relaxation and focus, women can work with their bodies during labor, rather than feeling like they are fighting against it. The most central parts that teach hypnobirthing are videos about hormones during birth (2.9.-2.11.), relaxation techniques from hypnobirthing (3.1.-3.3. & 3.5.-3.9.), the mind-body connection, and positive reinforcement (7.1., 7.2. & 7.5.-7.10.).

I have another question!

Contact me!
Whatsapp and Phone: 0584302519
E-Mail: knowledgebasedbirth@gmail.com
I will do my best to answer as fast as possible within office hours.

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Birth is life-changing! Education and preparation can pave the way for the best possible birth experience.