In today’s episode I am kicking off the series about childbirth preparation classes. I am featuring a different type of birth education program each week in the month of May. 

I had the privilege of interviewing Nikki Shaheed and she is a certified Trainer, Mentor, and Doula for Birthing from Within, as well as the author of Heart Centered Pregnancy Journal. Nikki is passionate about bringing balance and self-compassion to the childbearing year. She lives in San Antonio, TX with her husband and three amazing children. 


In this episode we discuss: 

Background of Birthing From Within

Created by Pam England, who is the author of Birthing From WithinHer birth experience led her to ask herself: what did I need to know as a mother that I didn’t know as a midwife? That question inspired her quest to find self compassion and a way to help people to have more realistic and holistic expectations before they give birth

What is the BFW "unmethod"? 

There is no way to get it wrong with Birthing From Within, it is not outcome basedIt is all about developing self love, self acceptance and doing what the moment calls for without being held back by conditioning or judgment

Words we use in birth

The words we use are powerful and create imageryThe term “natural childbirth” makes Cesarean or medicated birth seem “unnatural”

You cannot plan out your birth

You can prepare for birth, but you cannot control birth outcomesCenter preparation around the foundational concept that you are stepping into the unknownNikki likes to call Birthing From Within the “self compassion buffet” Self compassion is the most important thing to pack in your birth bag

What will parents learn about childbirth, as well as themselves? 

Parents will learn the “nuts and bolts” of birthStages of laborCommon procedures that can occur during birthHow to prepare the for the unknown

Birth Art

Embodied experience that allows parents to practice figuring out what to do when they don’t know what to doWise and compassionate mentor is there to encourage them to keep going

Emphasis on the postpartum journey is a big differentiator between Birthing From Within and other birth preparation programs

Find a Birthing From Within Birth Education Mentor


How to get in touch with/follow Nikki

Heart Centered Pregnancy JournalFollow on InstagramWebsite

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