Frequently Asked Questions

Was Matrikas knows as the Women Wellbeing Collaborative before changing it's name?

Yes! Before Matrikas changed it’s name, we were known as the Woman Wellbeing Collective. However, it’s our goal to be an inclusive space, so we changes out name to remove the word “women” to include all birthing people and partners.

Why did Matrikas change it's name from Making Mothers Collective?

We changed our name to Matrikas in order to be more inclusive of all genders, people, and birthing partners.

Midwife vs doula?

The main difference between a midwife and a doula lies in their roles, training, and scope of practice during pregnancy and childbirth:

Midwife

  • A midwife is a trained healthcare professional with specialized medical education in pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care.

  • Midwives provide clinical care and medical management throughout pregnancy and childbirth.

  • They can perform medical examinations, order tests, monitor the health of the mother and baby, and deliver babies.

  • Midwives are legally recognized as healthcare providers and can practice independently.

  • Their training typically takes 3-5 years, including a nursing degree (for Certified Nurse Midwives) or specialized midwifery training.

Doula

  • A doula is a non-medical professional who provides emotional, physical, and informational support to mothers before, during, and after childbirth.

  • Doulas focus on offering comfort, advocacy, and continuous support during labor and delivery.

  • They do not perform clinical tasks, provide medical advice, or deliver babies.

  • Doula training typically involves certification courses lasting several weeks to a few months.

  • Doulas are recognized as supportive professionals but are not licensed healthcare providers.

Both roles are incredibly valuable in the birthing process. Midwives handle the medical aspects of care, while doulas concentrate on non-medical support. Many women choose to have both a midwife and a doula present during childbirth to benefit from comprehensive care and support.

When do pregnant women start lactating?

Pregnant people typically start lactating, or producing colostrum (the first nutrient-rich milk), around the midpoint of pregnancy, between 16 and 22 weeks. This process is driven by hormonal changes, particularly an increase in prolactin levels. Some pregnant people may notice leaking colostrum during the second or third trimester, while others may not experience any visible leakage, which is also normal.

What are the best new mother resources?

Among others, a good support team can be one of the best new mother resources:

  • Mental health support

  • Postpartum doula

  • Postpartum massage therapy

  • Postpartum acupressure and acupuncture

  • Lactation consultant and lactation home visit

  • Mommy & Me yoga class

  • Mom coach

  • Newborn care class

  • Infant Sleep Consultant

Pregnancy classes

Pregnancy classes can be an integral part of preparing for childbirth.

Pregnancy classes can:

  • reduce anxiety about childbirth,

  • increase confidence in parenting skills,

  • and lead to better birth outcomes.

Research shows that women who attend prenatal education classes are more likely to:

  • have vaginal deliveries,

  • experience less fear and stress during labor,

  • and have higher rates of breastfeeding initiation.

When do pregnant woman start producing milk?

Pregnant women typically start producing colostrum, the first form of breast milk, between 16 and 22 weeks of pregnancy. However, full milk production usually begins a few days after giving birth when hormone levels shift.

When do you start producing colostrum?

Pregnant women typically start producing colostrum between 16 and 22 weeks of pregnancy, though it may not be noticeable until later. While the body begins creating colostrum early on, most women don't start leaking breast milk until closer to the end of pregnancy, if at all.

Lamaze class

Lamaze classes are childbirth education sessions that focus on labor and delivery as natural processes, teaching relaxation techniques, rhythmic breathing, and informed decision-making. They aim to empower parents with knowledge about managing pain, understanding medical interventions, and fostering confidence in the birthing process.

Can you use lube while pregnant?

It is generally safe to use lubricant during pregnancy, but it's important to choose the right type. Water-based lubricants are considered the safest option during pregnancy, as they are compatible with the body's natural pH levels and have a low risk of irritation or infection.