Should we consider using inclusive and affirming language when discussing birth and parenting? A resounding yes, and let me tell you why. When I got into birthwork, I already knew that affirming and inclusive language would be the platform I worked from. Inclusive language at a baseline harms no one, we are holding space for each person's identity.

My number one advice to clients is not to overpack! The hospital has all the underwear, pads, baby diapers (yours too!), peri bottles, and even nursing pumps that you could ever need. I do advise that you make sure you know what your individual birthing place provides for the birthing person, baby, and family as each birthing place is different.