What Does a Doula Actually Do? Birth, Postpartum, and End of Life Support in Sioux Falls

Well this certainly feels big, and during World Doula Week 2026, no less! Transitions: Doula & Life Services was featured in a podcast “Dialed In Health”!

So if you’ve ever wondered what a doula actually does, or you’ve heard the word but aren’t totally sure what it means, this conversation is for you.

Kelsie and Renee recently sat down with Dialed In Health for a 30-minute episode to talk about what doulas really do, what support actually looks like during pregnancy and postpartum and end of life, and why so many families feel like something is missing after baby arrives.

Because here’s the truth: most people don’t realize what kind of support is even available to them! Especially here in Sioux Falls.

Melissa goodwin, host of dialed in health, speaks with renee forred and kelsie thomas of transitions: doula & life services.

What is a doula? (And what does a doula do?)

A doula is a non-medical support person who provides emotional, physical, and educational support during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum.

But that definition doesn’t fully capture it.

What we talked about in this episode is this:

A doula is someone who is there for you.

Not just your baby.
Not just your birth plan.
Not just the clinical pieces.

You.

For families in Sioux Falls and surrounding communities, this kind of support can look like having someone steady, experienced, and fully focused on your experience… not just the outcome. (Because healthy mom, healthy baby isn’t the full story!)

Jill shared her experience using a doula’s support to have a vbac.

We are so grateful that we had clients excited to share their experiences using our doula support!

Jill utilized doula support for the birth of her second baby. After a cesarean delivery with her first baby, she was determined to accomplish a VBAC. Sarah, her birth doula, helped Jill and her husband through an amazing VBAC experience. (Jump to 6:30 in the episode to hear Jill’s story!)

John and Kristin nau share their experience about utilizing postpartum doula support after the birth of their first.

John and Kristin joined us to share about their overnight and daytime postpartum doula support. Ashlyn, Tesza, and Renee all collaborated to help bring them peace and healing in the fourth trimester. (Jump to 10:45 in the episode to hear John and Kristin’s story!)

Other good stuff we talked about in the episode

Here are some of the biggest takeaways from our conversation:

Postpartum support is often missing.

A lot of families prepare for labor… and then feel completely unprepared for what comes after.

We talked about how postpartum can feel like a huge drop-off in care, and how having postpartum doula support can completely change that experience.

Doulas fill the gaps in modern maternity care! Your provider is there to keep you and your baby medically safe. A doula is there to help you feel:

• supported

• informed

• grounded

• less alone

Those are very different roles, and both matter.

Doula support is more than just birth. We talked about how doula support in Sioux Falls and the surrounding area can include:

• One-on-one childbirth preparation

• Talking through decisions without pressure or bias

• Supporting partners so they feel confident and involved

• Hands-on postpartum help when everything feels overwhelming

And even support through end-of-life transitions.

Kelsie thomas, owner and doula, talks about end of life and transitional doula support.

Postpartum healing deserves more attention. This was a big part of the conversation!

Healing isn’t just:

• “you and the baby are healthy, so everything’s fine”

It’s:

• physical recovery

• emotional processing

• sleep deprivation

• identity shifts

• learning your baby

Postpartum support isn’t extra, it’s foundational.

Placenta encapsulation and postpartum recovery

We also talked about placenta encapsulation as one option for postpartum recovery.

This process prepares the placenta (typically into capsules) for postpartum use.

For some families, placenta encapsulation can support:

• energy levels

• mood

• overall recovery

For others, it’s not something they’re interested in, and that’s okay too.

What matters most is having clear, grounded information so you can make the decision that feels right for you.

Placenta encapsulation is one small piece of a much bigger picture of postpartum healing and support.

Listen to the full podcast episode

If you want to hear the full conversation about birth doulas, postpartum support, and what families really need, you can listen here:

👉 https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1333-dialed-in-health-327224713/episode/what-does-a-doula-do-birth-postpartum-and-end-of-life-support-328025409?app=listen

Or watch on YouTube! https://youtu.be/HmZM9GK-L_A?si=bjqt6I1R9w3mRQax

It’s about 30 minutes—perfect for a walk, a drive, or folding laundry.

Looking for a doula in Sioux Falls, Brookings, Yankton, or Mitchell?

If you’re pregnant or newly postpartum and feeling like:

• “I don’t really know what I need yet”

• “I think I want more support, but I’m not sure what that looks like”

You’re not alone in that.

That’s exactly why this work exists.

The Tranitions Team supports families throughout Sioux Falls and the surrounding area with birth doula services, postpartum care, end of life support, and education.

If you want to talk through what support could look like for your family, we’re here!

A Doula Origin Story, Part 2: The Passion Keeps the Ball Rolling

Continuing to share my journey into doula work…

Hi! I’m Renee, and I’m a doula and co-owner of Transitions: Doula & Life Services. 

Here’s my Doula Origin Story, Continued:

After I signed up for the training, I started to second guess my decision.  This is not an unusual thing… I tend to worry about things, and this was a big investment for my young family.

I knew that the pull that I had towards this work was something that I would regret not following, but still… I had three, really little kids.

They were 4, 2, and 5 months when I attended my training.

As I sat in the back of the room, pumping milk for my baby, I could not deny the energy... it was positively buzzing with the same passion I had!  I left the first day and told my husband, “I found my people!”  (side note: I'm still friends with almost everyone in that training)

At the end of training, I told Marilyn Hildreth (my DONA trainer and Brookings legend of a woman!) “I just know this is what I'm supposed to be doing.”  

She showed her agreement by sending me one of my first clients!

Getting started then was harder than it is now.  First of all, very few people in my community knew what a doula was in 2016.  Second, there were no mentorship opportunities.  Lastly, the doula community I entered was complicated.  It was at a big transition point, and I found myself having to learn the dynamics very quickly to be able to navigate within the birth community.

Now our communities are much more familiar with the role of the doula, thanks to a lot of effort from a LOT of doulas!  My agency offers mentorship opportunities, as does DONA trainer Joyce.  Finally, the birth community is so welcoming and collaborative and excited to see fresh doulas (AKA baby doulas!) come on the scene.

Over the last ten years, the thing that keeps the work moving forward is passion.  I have never doubted that this is right where I'm supposed to be, and the universe continues to show up for me in the work.

If you'd like to learn more about doula work or have a conversation with me to ask all your questions, just reach out!  I'm eager to talk to anyone with the same love of birth, and babies, and moms, and families.

-Renee

Click to learn more about starting your birth doula career in 2026.

A Doula Origin Story, Part 1: From Office Desk to Birth Room

In an instant—everything changed.

Hi! I’m Renee, and I’m a doula and co-owner of Transitions: Doula & Life Services. Here’s my Doula Origin Story:

I had just returned to my social work job from maternity leave with my third child (and my only daughter). As I sat at my desk, staring at my never-ending caseload list, I had a thought…

“I hope that when she grows up, she finds a career she is passionate about.”

Then came the lightbulb moment. 💡
 

What better way to help her follow her passions than to show her how to do it?

I signed up for a DONA Birth Doula Training the very same day.

That baby girl is ten years old now.  I left my job that had burned me out.  It wasn't easy to start my own business, but here's the difference:  The work wasn't draining me… it was life-giving!

Click to learn more about starting your birth doula career in 2026.

Eat. Sleep. Poop.: A Workshop to Replace Your 2am Googling

Infants have three jobs. It should be simple, right? They eat, they sleep, and they poop. (Okay, there’s also growing and development, but it all stems from the three main pillars of being a baby).

So if it’s as simple as this, why does it feel so hard?

Every parent knows that if just one of these functions isn’t… functioning… the whole household pays the price.

The Experts have entered the chat.

That’s why we asked our favorite local experts to get together for a one-of-a-kind workshop for parents and caregivers.

“Postpartum doulas help families with these basic functions all the time, and we have a good network of experts we can reach out to when we need more information or support,” explains Renee Forred, Doula and Co-owner of Transitions: Doula & Life Services.

“When I have a question about bottling, first foods, or oral function, I reach out to Carrie at MoveU. My go-to for sleep challenges is Suzie at Tender Sleep Co. Anytime I have a concern about constipation or toileting for kiddos, Jackie at Fearless Physiotherapy is the person I’m texting,” said Forred. “Why not get these powerhouse professionals in one spot, and have them lead discussion and answer questions to make families’ lives easier?”

Meet the Experts

Carrie Hartzell

Pediatric Speech Language Pathologist

MoveU

I specialize in the areas of oral motor/feeding, bottling, articulation/phonology, and language. I have 16 years of experience as a pediatric SLP, and have worked in both the medical and school-based settings. I have experience with inpatient and outpatient care, NICU, multi-disciplinary specialty clinics, virtual and in-person speech therapy for the early childhood through high-school populations.

Suzanne Warwick

Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant

Tender Sleep Company

I know how overwhelming sleepless nights can be, and I’ve made it my mission to help families build healthy sleep habits that bring calm, confidence, and rest.

With evidence-based strategies and compassionate support, I guide parents through everything from setting up strong sleep foundations for newborns to overcoming bedtime battles with older kids. Together, we’ll create practical solutions so your whole family can thrive.

Dr. Jackie Dooyema

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist

Fearless Physiotherapy

I am a pelvic physical therapist specialized for women and children right in the comfort of your home across the greater Sioux Falls area. I have over a decade of experience and focus on vital physical therapy for babies and children struggling with issues like constipation, bedwetting, and daytime urine leakage. I am also the region’s only certified Obstetrics specialist in Physical Therapy. This provides unmatched training in pregnancy, labor and delivery, and postpartum physical therapy. 

About the Workshop

Eat. Sleep. Poop. Workshop will be held at Transitions: Doula & Life Services on Saturday, January 24th at 9:30am. Space is limited, and virtual options are available to make this workshop more accessible to more families.

Transitions is located at 2908 E 26th St., Sioux Falls, SD 57103.

Parents and caregivers (from pregnancy through infancy and beyond) are invited to join in and learn while getting questions answered.

Early Bird Admission is available through December 31st, and General Admission tickets will be sold after January 1st until the date of the workshop.

Why This Workshop Stands Out

Eat. Sleep. Poop. isn’t about telling you what you should be doing.

It’s about:

• Giving you tools you can actually use

• Helping you understand your baby’s cues and needs

• Reducing anxiety and putting you in direct contact with people who can help

• Creating space for your real questions

It’s time to level up from middle of the night Googling, following influencers with conflicting advice, and constantly second guessing how you navigate newborn, infancy, and toddlerhood. When it comes to these seemingly simple processes, you are better off narrowing down the noise and looking toward the expert knowledge right in your community.

---

Do you have questions about Eat. Sleep. Poop. Workshop, or any of Transitions: Doula & Life Services offerings? Reach out to info@transitionsdoulaservices.com or call/text 605-496-2802.

So You Want to Be a Doula?

Just as there are many types of doulas, there are also many roads to becoming a doula. It may seem overwhelming to figure out where to begin.

The first step of any doula path is going to be a training/workshop. Usually this is a weekend experience where you get to gather with other like-minded individuals, and learn in a hands-on manner.

Each certifying organization has different requirements and fees to be trained and subsequently certified. Be sure to consider these before committing to an organization, as you don’t want to be surprised once you’ve already started down a path!

Other things to consider:

• Does this organization represent my vision of birth/postpartum support?

• Is this doula program accredited or recognized as a professional body?

• Is this organization welcoming and inclusive?

• Can I grow with this organization? Or would I need to seek out other organizations for other aspects of birth work that I’m interested in?

If you’re ready to take the leap into doula work, join us in February 2026 for our DONA Birth Doula Training! We can’t wait to help usher new doulas into the workforce.

BONUS: Attendees will have ongoing mentorship from The Transitions Team… included in your registration!

Learn more about the upcoming training HERE!

Then read about what makes a great birth doula training HERE.

Transitions: Doula & Life Services is always actively recruiting the right individuals to join our team. Part of the requirement to be a Transitions doula is that you have been trained and are seeking certification.

If you’re interested in becoming a doula, you’re not sure where to start, or if you have questions about the life of a doula, check out sddoulas.org! They have a Doula Mentor and have lots of resources to help you get started on your best foot!

What Makes a Great Birth Doula Training?

Have you been thinking about becoming a doula?

Welcome to the club of people passionate about serving birth and postpartum!

Being a doula is not a one-size fits all career, and doula trainings aren’t one-size fits all either.

In fact, if you’ve been thinking about it long enough, you’ve probably noticed there are a lot of training options out there! Some are short and online, some are in-person and immersive, and the price tags can range from a few hundred dollars to well over a thousand.

So how do you know which doula training is really worth it?

We’ve worked alongside doulas trained through a variety of programs. Over the years, we’ve learned that the difference between a good training and a great one often comes down to three things: depth, professionalism, and support.

A great doula training goes beyond the basics of what to do during labor. It digs deep into the why behind your role — the emotional, physical, and informational ways doulas make a difference.

The best trainings are interactive and evidence-based, allowing you to practice comfort measures, communication techniques, and real-world scenarios so that you leave feeling confident, not just informed.

Being a doula isn’t just about passion — it’s a profession! A strong training program teaches you how to show up for families and for yourself as a professional. That includes understanding ethics, boundaries, collaboration with care providers, and how to build a sustainable practice.

We believe professionalism is what helps doulas gain respect within the birth community and ensures families receive consistent, high-quality care. We also believe that professionalism is built in community of doulas at different stages!

The best trainings don’t end when the last session wraps up. New doulas thrive when they have mentors and peers to lean on. That’s why we include ongoing mentorship from the Transitions Team with our upcoming DONA International Birth Doula Training — so new doulas feel supported as they begin their first births, build confidence, and work toward certification.

When you’re surrounded by experienced doulas who are actively serving families, you don’t just learn — you grow.

This February, we’re proud to host a DONA International Birth Doula Training right here in Sioux Falls in our beautiful community space.

DONA International is recognized worldwide as the gold standard in doula education. Their trainings emphasize evidence-based care, ethical practice, and deep compassion — values that align beautifully with our mission at Transitions.

This 4-day, in-person training will be led by Joyce Dykema, a DONA-approved trainer who brings years of experience and heart to her work.

📅 Dates: February 19–22, 2026
📍 Location: Transitions: Doula & Life Services, 2908 E 26th St, Sioux Falls, SD 57103

Registration details will be available soon, but you can join our interest list now to be the first to receive updates when registration opens! Just reply to this email, or message Renee at renee@transitionsdoulaservices.com to learn more.

If you feel called to birth work, the right training will not only teach you what to do — it will help you discover who you are as a doula. It will set you up for success in supporting families for years to come!

Choose a program that invests in your future, connects you with community, and sets you up for long-term success.

We can’t wait to help you get started.

💜The Transitions Team

The Book Club

Transitions has started a book club! Check out the most recent book review, written post meet-up from a past client and writer, Lacey Louwagie.

My Reading Life: Nightbitch by Rachel Yoder

"You need to have your time to be wild to be better at domesticity."

Repost from Substack and written by : LACEY LOUWAGIE

When I was in my twenties and years away from becoming a mother myself, a coworker who had just had a baby told me this about nursing: “It really reminds you that underneath it all, we’re just animals.”

A mom at yesterday’s Book Club discussion admitted to “growling” once when her baby bit her nipple. (Related, my aunt reports that my sister also “growled” as a baby while nursing if anyone came too our mom.)

My first baby was born in the summer. We took him home, reeling. We returned to the same house, but everything had changed. We had a window air conditioner in our bedroom and we holed up in there for days, closing the door to keep the cool air in, intermittently sleeping and nursing and gulping glasses of water and wolfing down protein balls my mom had made us. The room smelled of sweat and breast milk and pee and baby poop. The sheets were always rumpled. Time ceased to have much meaning. Sometimes daylight came through the windows during the nursing and eating and sleeping and crying. Sometimes darkness surrounded us. And I remember feeling like that room was our den, that my husband, my son, and I were wild things hidden away from the world — wolves or foxes or bears. Certainly not humans. This was not the way humans lived.

Nightbitch by Rachel Yoder explores the transformation of a character known only as The Mother into Nightbitch, a dog, nominally a domesticated animal that still ripples with wildness and instinct under the surface. The book begins with the Mother growing stagnant and resentful of her life at home with her two-year-old son. Her husband travels for work throughout the week, the two-year-old sleeps in her bed each night and takes hours to drift off, and the Mother’s belief that she doesn’t want friends who are just “mom friends” keeps her isolated. This is where her transformation into Nightbitch, a dog who runs wild through the street, cracks the necks of rabbits between her teeth, and frolics through the dog park and the woods with her son begins.

Does the Mother actually transform, or is Nightbitch a product of sleep-deprivation and hallucination? Is Nightbitch just a metaphor for the wildness beneath the surface in women, which perhaps surges more than ever during early motherhood just as the world tells them they must be good and stay home? As the world, much like it does to dogs, proclaims them “cute” and “sweet” even though they’ve recently traversed the world between life and death in the birth experience?

At the first meeting of the Transitions Book Club, the women gathered weren’t particularly interested in exploring whether the Mother’s transformation into Nightbitch had “actually” happened. Instead, nearly everyone gathered — those who had first children just a couple months old and those whose children were old enough to become de facto “supervisors” on the playground where toddlers played nearby — said they’d found a lot to relate to in Nightbitch. The restlessness. The reliance on instinct. The rage. The utter transformation and reintegration motherhood demands.

We talked about whether we were “cat people” or “dog people” (and about the harrowing scene that hits cat people especially hard.) We talked about the performative aspects of motherhood, identity shifts, being expected to separate our “mother” selves and our “worker” selves, trying to explain the “mental load” of motherhood to partners who don’t experience it directly despite their best intentions. And sure, we were talking about the book, but we were also talking about us, and it was exactly the sort of discussion I dreamed could happen when the book club idea was percolating.

As we were getting ready to leave, another “cat mom” and I swapped stories about our indoor/outdoor cats. We talked about how we’d noticed that letting the cats go outside to roam and hunt and smell nature made them so much more calm and — this is key — patient with the kids when they were in the house again. We agreed that the improvement in their mental wellbeing was worth the slightly increased risk of them encountering danger by being outdoors. I said, “It’s like, they have to have their time to be wild to be good at domesticity.”

Kelsie said, “And that pretty much sums it up, doesn’t it?”

Mark Your Calendars! Our next book club meet-up will be held

Monday, August 11, 9 am

Dunham Park, 1301 S Marion Rd.

You can subscribe and read more from Lacey Louwagie at https://substack.com/@laceylouwagie

Let's Talk Medicaid Doula Support!

Our doula Renee discussed doula support options for SD Medicaid recipients. Watch the replay at the bottom (or read on) and learn what's covered, how to qualify, and why doula support makes such a difference!

Doula Support Covered by South Dakota Medicaid: What You Need to Know

By Renee Forred, Co-Owner of Transitions: Doula & Life Services

We are thrilled to share a truly exciting development for pregnant and postpartum families in South Dakota — doula support is now covered by South Dakota Medicaid! This is a game-changer for so many families who might not have been able to access this kind of care before, and I want to walk you through what it means, who qualifies, and how to get started.

What Is a Doula?

Let’s start with the basics. A doula is a professional who provides physical, emotional, and informational support throughout pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period. At Transitions: Doula & Life Services, our doulas are trained in birth and postpartum, and show up with evidence-based resources, encouragement, and hands-on help.

There are different types of doulas, but when we talk about Medicaid coverage, we’re focused on birth and postpartum doulas. These are the doulas who:

• Support you in pregnancy with preparation, resources, and birth planning

• Are present at your labor and delivery to help you feel confident and supported

• Visit you at home after birth to nurture your recovery and transition to parenthood

What Changed? Medicaid Coverage in South Dakota

Before January 1, 2025, doula care in South Dakota was typically an out-of-pocket expense. A few private insurance companies offered partial reimbursement, but it wasn’t guaranteed and often required families to pay up front and file paperwork themselves.

Now, that’s changed.

Thanks to ongoing collaboration between doulas, advocates, and state officials, South Dakota Medicaid will now cover up to $1,800 in doula services for eligible recipients. The state recognized what doulas have known all along: continuous, compassionate, culturally informed support makes a real difference in outcomes — from maternal mental health to reduced birth trauma to better breastfeeding success.

What Does $1,800 in Doula Support Look Like?

At Transitions, we’ve created a comprehensive Birth + Postpartum Package that is Medicaid-approved and available to everyone — whether you're Medicaid-eligible, paying privately, or using insurance. It includes:

✅ Two Prenatal Visits
To get to know you and your birth team, plan for your birth experience, and help prepare for postpartum. This may also include customized childbirth or breastfeeding education.

✅ Birth Support
Your doula will be on-call and physically present during your labor and birth, offering continuous emotional and physical support — massage, comfort measures, advocacy, and more.

✅ One Postpartum Visit
Once you're home, your doula visits to check in, talk through your birth experience, and help troubleshoot early feeding or newborn care.

✅ 20 Hours of Daytime Postpartum Support
A postpartum doula comes to your home to care for you while you heal. That might look like helping with newborn care, feeding support, meal prep, light chores, or simply giving you space to rest while knowing your baby is in capable hands.

This is real, hands-on, practical support — and Medicaid is covering it!

How to Get Started

If you're pregnant and have South Dakota Medicaid — or if you’ve recently delivered and need postpartum help — the process is simple:

1. Contact your provider (OB, midwife, or primary care) and ask them to complete a Medicaid doula referral.

2. Choose your doula. Not every doula is enrolled in Medicaid, but we have several Medicaid-approved doulas on our team ready to support you.

3. We take it from there. Once the referral is processed, we handle the paperwork and get started with your care!

Let’s Talk

If you have questions about Medicaid doula support or want to learn more about how this could help you or someone you know, reach out!

📩 DM us on Instagram @transitionsdoula
🌐 Visit www.transitionsdoulaservices.com
📧 Email us through our website contact form

We are here to serve, support, and celebrate you during this incredible life transition. Doula care shouldn’t be a luxury — and now, in South Dakota, it doesn’t have to be.

Thank you for being part of this growing movement toward compassionate, equitable care. Let’s keep the conversation going.

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Press Release: Transitions Doula Services Now Accepts South Dakota Medicaid

Sioux Falls, SD – [7/3/25] — Transitions: Doula & Life Services is excited to announce that we are officially able to accept clients with South Dakota Medicaid coverage for birth and postpartum doula support. This exciting development makes our compassionate, skilled support services more accessible..

“We are thrilled to be able to expand our services to families who otherwise might not be able to receive doula support,” says Renee Forred, co-owner of Transitions.  “We know all families deserve access to this quality, evidence-based care.”

Owners Kelsie Thomas and Forred are part of the doula team, consisting of birth, postpartum, and end-of-life doulas; educators, encapsulators, and lactation professionals.

As of January 1st, 2025, South Dakota’s Medicaid program covers doula services as a way to improve maternal and infant outcomes—a change that aligns with Transitions’ mission to nurture an individual, enhance the family, and cultivate a community through team based support.

Families with Medicaid who are interested in doula services can contact Transitions: Doula & Life Services directly or ask their medical provider to complete a Medicaid referral.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, please visit transitionsdoulaservices.com or call 605-496-2802.

About Transitions: Doula & Life Services
Based in Sioux Falls, SD, Transitions is a full-service doula agency offering birth, postpartum, and end-of-life support. Their team of professional doulas is committed to walking alongside individuals and families through life’s biggest transitions.

Media Contact:
Renee Forred
Co-Owner
Transitions: Doula & Life Services
Phone: 605-496-2802
Email: info@transitionsdoulaservices.com
Website: transitionsdoulaservices.com

The Art of Newborn Photography: Preserving the Moments That Matter Most

We asked Jackie Schrier from JS Photography to share why newborn photography can be such a special part of your parenting journey.

Hi! I’m Jackie, a newborn photographer at JS Photography based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. I love photographing all things motherhood from bump to birthdays and beyond. Life with littles is such a blur and it’s my passion to give you beautiful images to document those fleeting moments. As a mom myself and an experienced newborn photographer, I am here to share a little insight into newborn photography. I am so excited to be a guest here on Transitions blog.

“They say the days are long but the years are short and that is oh so true.”

photo by js photography

jackie schrier of js photography

They say the days are long but the years are short and that is oh so true. When it comes to my babies I rely so much on photos and memories jotted down. As Sioux Falls’ go-to newborn photographer, I’ve had the honor of working with hundreds of families during the most special season of their lives. My style is natural and connection-focused— my goal is always to create beautiful images of you and the people you care for the most.

Why Newborn Photography Matters 

Welcoming a new baby is one of the most powerful, emotional moments in life and it passes in the blink of an eye. Between sleepless nights, baby snuggles, and firsts that come and go so quickly, it’s easy to forget just how tiny they were, how they fit perfectly in your arms, and the way your world changed overnight.

That’s where newborn photography steps in—not just as a luxury, but as a way of preserving the memories that matter most.

• They’re only this little once.
  In just a few short weeks, your newborn’s features begin to change. The little fingers that curl around yours, the soft, wispy hair, the way their feet are so small they can fit into the palm of your hand— these tiny details are fleeting. A newborn session allows you to hold onto those moments. 

• You’re in the frame too.
  As a new parent, you’re often behind the camera. A professional session gives you the chance to be in the moment with your baby and have those memories captured beautifully. A newborn session is a gift to yourself and your family. 

• Newborn photography is an art.

  Newborn photography requires more than just a camera—it takes training, practice, and a deep understanding of lighting, angles, safety knowledge, and lots of experience with babies. That’s why working with a professional really matters!

photo by js photography

Why You Should Book a Newborn Session

• The ideal window is short.
  The best time for posed newborn photography is typically within the first 5–14 days after birth. Babies are sleepier, curlier, and more content being gently posed during this time. Booking ahead ensures a spot on the calendar, then we adjust as needed once baby arrives.

• It takes the pressure off.
  When you book in advance, everything’s ready to go—no scrambling, no stress. Just show up, relax, and let me take care of the rest (including the white noise, swaddles, and soothing techniques!).

photo by js photography

Why Book With JS Photography

• I create a calm, baby-led environment.
  Your baby’s comfort and safety are my top priorities. My sessions are slow-paced, cozy, and completely tailored to your baby’s needs. Whether they’re sleepy, wide awake, or need extra cuddles, I follow their lead every step of the way.

• I have over a decade of experience.

I have been a photographer now for 14 years and photographed hundreds of sessions. 

• You’ll walk away with more than just photos.

These aren’t just photos for you— they are photos for your child and generations to come. Imagine your child looking back at these photos with their own children sharing the story of their beginning. A newborn session isn’t just about today; it's about preserving memories as family heirlooms that will be passed down and treasured for years.
You’ll leave with tangible memories, a beautiful experience, and images that will make your heart swell every time you look at them. I’m here to make this part of your journey feel effortless and unforgettable.

• I have the ability to grow with your family! 

One of my favorite parts of my work is the connection I get to build with the families I photograph. I don’t just see you as a client, I see you as a friend. I’m honored to be invited into such meaningful moments in your life, and when you come back for milestone sessions, sibling photos, or yearly family updates... it truly means the world to me. Watching your family grow through my lens is the greatest gift.

photo by js photography

Why Book With JS Photography

• I create a calm, baby-led environment.
  Your baby’s comfort and safety are my top priorities. My sessions are slow-paced, cozy, and completely tailored to your baby’s needs. Whether they’re sleepy, wide awake, or need extra cuddles, I follow their lead every step of the way.

• I have over a decade of experience.

I have been a photographer now for 14 years and photographed hundreds of sessions. 

• You’ll walk away with more than just photos.

These aren’t just photos for you— they are photos for your child and generations to come. Imagine your child looking back at these photos with their own children sharing the story of their beginning. A newborn session isn’t just about today; it's about preserving memories as family heirlooms that will be passed down and treasured for years.
You’ll leave with tangible memories, a beautiful experience, and images that will make your heart swell every time you look at them. I’m here to make this part of your journey feel effortless and unforgettable.

• I have the ability to grow with your family! 

One of my favorite parts of my work is the connection I get to build with the families I photograph. I don’t just see you as a client, I see you as a friend. I’m honored to be invited into such meaningful moments in your life, and when you come back for milestone sessions, sibling photos, or yearly family updates... it truly means the world to me. Watching your family grow through my lens is the greatest gift!

Whether it’s your first baby or your fifth, this season deserves to be remembered. If you’re ready to plan your newborn session—or have questions—I’d love to chat with you! Let’s document the beginning of your baby’s story, together.

Thank you so much to Transitions for having me! It’s been such a joy to share a little about what I do and why I’m so passionate about documenting these early days. If you’re a Sioux Falls family looking to capture the magic of your newborn or growing family, I’d love to connect with you!

-Jackie, JS Photography

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To learn more about JS Photography, you can follow her on Instagram (@jsphotosd), Facebook, or online at www.photographybyjs.net.

Why This Sioux Falls Family Says Hiring a Doula Was Life-Changing

Clients Jordin and Logan share with Keloland about their birthing experience with doula Kelsie

Keloland Story by: Tom Hanson,Posted: Apr 16, 2025

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — This is Neely. She came into this world 8 months ago. She keeps dad Logan and Mom Jordin busy and entertained. “It’s just been so fun to watch her develop into the person she is now, she develops new levels to her personality every day, said Logan. “She is so close to crawling so that will be a whole new adventure once that happens,” said Jordin.

Other than mom and dad, the first people to hold Neeley after she was born was Kelsie Thomas. Logan and Jordan hired her to be their Doula. “A doula is someone who rounds out the care team, who provides information, physical and emotional support,” said Thomas. Support for both mom and dad, “During labor, you know we had studied a lot, done a lot of research, she had prepared us but there is just no fully preparing once you are in the moment so having her there to help guide us every step of the way was so important, said Jordin.

Logan says he appreciated Kelsie’s ability to communicate with hospital staff and ask for resources he didn’t know were available to them. “Guiding me on how to keep Jordan comfortable while we were in the midst of it and like keeping me calm because it is an intense experience,” said Logan.

Jordan says having Kelsie as their doula helped them experience Neely’s birth in a deeper way.

“Honestly, the most beautiful intimate experience that we’ve ever experienced and her support helped Logan support, be there to support me and be fully present so it helped deepen our relationship too with me and my husband,” said Jordin.

Kelsie also kept the grandparents up to date as complications set in after 18 hours of labor and an eventual C-section.

While doula services are increasingly recognized for their benefits, insurance coverage remains inconsistent. However, as of January 1, 2025, Medicaid in South Dakota now provides coverage for doula services at birth and during the postpartum period. “Postpartum that doula role can look like coming into the home, helping with feeding, with sleeping with care, with light housework, whatever it is that can help you do better,” said Thomas.

Logan and Jordan say other couples should consider hiring their own doula. “I do not know what I would have done without her there honestly, it would have been incredibly difficult,” said Logan.

“I would never give birth without a doula, we will definitely have a doula for everyone of our babies,” said Jordan.

Doula’s are not medical staff, however they should be certified, which requires course work.

What is the difference between HypnoBirthing and Mindful Birthing?

This is a question we get SO frequently!

When you offer two similar classes, sometimes students get in decision paralysis because they have so much in common. In the following article, we’ll illustrate how these two amazing classes are different from each other.

Have no fear, there is no “wrong” option here! It is up to YOU to decide which approach resonates with you! Both of these classes are evidence-based, wisely-led, and WILL help you accomplish your birthing goals.

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HypnoBirthing and Mindful Birthing are two different approaches to childbirth education, each with its own principles and techniques. Here's a breakdown of the main differences between them:

1. Philosophy and Focus:

   • HypnoBirthing: HypnoBirthing is based on the idea that childbirth is a natural and normal process that can be experienced with minimal pain and intervention when a woman is in a deeply relaxed and focused state. It emphasizes self-hypnosis, visualization, and positive affirmations to reduce fear and tension during labor and delivery.

   • Mindful Birthing: Mindful Birthing, on the other hand, incorporates mindfulness practices into the childbirth experience. It draws from the principles of mindfulness meditation, emphasizing being fully present in the moment and accepting whatever arises without judgment. Mindful birthing seeks to cultivate awareness, resilience, and coping strategies for managing pain and stress during labor.

2. Techniques and Practices:

   • HypnoBirthing: HypnoBirthing techniques include guided relaxation, controlled breathing, visualization, and positive affirmations. The goal is to achieve a state of deep relaxation and mental focus to reduce the perception of pain and promote a calm and positive birthing experience.

   • Mindful Birthing: Mindful Birthing involves mindfulness meditation and mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) practices. These include paying attention to one's breath, bodily sensations, and thoughts without attachment or resistance. Mindful birthing encourages mothers to be fully aware of each moment during labor and to approach it with an open and non-judgmental attitude.

3. Pain Management:

   • HypnoBirthing: HypnoBirthing teaches that pain during labor can be minimized or eliminated through deep relaxation and altered perception. Women are encouraged to view contractions as powerful surges and to trust their bodies' ability to birth their babies comfortably.

   • Mindful Birthing: Mindful Birthing does not promise pain elimination but rather focuses on changing one's relationship to pain. It helps women develop skills to manage pain and discomfort by observing and accepting sensations as they arise, reducing the suffering associated with fear and resistance.

4. Language and Terminology:

   • HypnoBirthing: HypnoBirthing often uses specific terminology, such as referring to contractions as "surges" and pain as "discomfort" to promote a positive mindset.

   • Mindful Birthing: Mindful Birthing does not typically introduce specific terminology but encourages non-judgmental awareness of whatever language or sensations naturally arise during labor.

While both HypnoBirthing and Mindful Birthing aim to enhance the childbirth experience and reduce stress, they do so through different philosophies and techniques.

So which one of these classes draw YOU in? We’d love to hear in the comments below!

What Does a Postpartum Doula ACTUALLY do?

“My role is to be whatever the family needs me to be so they can have a peaceful postpartum!"

-Transitions PP Doula

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This is a question we get ALL THE TIME. (Read on to see an example of a doula shift for one of our doulas last week!!!)

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Postpartum Doulas aren’t a new thing, but in the Midwest where we are based, the only well-known doula is the birth doula. Everyone asks what a postpartum doula does, and we say something like, "they help the new family after the baby arrives."

Sometimes we add in "they help with breastfeeding questions, and they are experts in newborn care. They can help around the house, help you get sleep/showered, prepare meals... etc".

But when it actually comes to hiring a postpartum doula, people blank about how beneficial this service really is.

So today, one of our postpartum doulas will walk you through what a typical shift might look like. And remember, this service is completely customizable to your needs! Here is an example of a shift with a postpartum doula...

"Today, I went to CLIENT NAME home mid-morning. When I arrived, she and the baby were resting, but she had texted me a list of things she needed help with while she slept. I always start at the sink, because I'm there washing my hands anyways.

I emptied the dishwasher, and reloaded it. I washed pans from dinner last night. I vacuumed and folded several baskets of laundry. Last week I had found a box of cookie mix in their pantry while helping put groceries away, and I had asked to make them this week to surprise big brother when he got home from daycare, so I did some baking (see picture! how cute are those?!).

When mom woke up, I held her baby while she ate lunch and we talked about the challenges of night time parenting. I did some tummy massage because the baby was gassy, and then baby was ready for another nap, so I swaddled her up and got her down for a rest.

I watered flowers, then I prepped dinner for the night while visiting with mom about the relationship between what we eat and how the baby responds.

Am I a housekeeper? No.

Am I a personal chef? No.

Am I a nanny? No.

I'm a postpartum doula, and my role is to be whatever the family needs me to be so they can have a peaceful postpartum!"

If you are expecting or recently had a baby, we highly encourage you to explore how this service can support you and your family during a very vulnerable, messy, beautiful, and transformative time of life!

Debunking Movie Myths: The Truth About Natural Birth

Lights, camera, action! In the world of Hollywood, birth scenes often take center stage, captivating audiences with their comedic chaos and dramatic flair.

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One such scene is from the movie Knocked Up with Seth Rogen and Katherine Heigl.

But let's be real: natural birth is NOTHING like what the movies portray! Today, we're diving deep into the truth about natural birth, debunking those movie myths, and shedding light on the empowering, beautiful, and meaningful experience it truly is.

💪 Real-Life Preparedness: Unlike the unpreparedness seen in the movies, moms who choose natural birth often spend months preparing themselves mentally and physically. From childbirth classes to mindfulness techniques, they approach birth with knowledge, confidence, and a supportive birthing team by their side.

🌿 Empowerment and Support: In stark contrast to the movie's comedic chaos, real-life natural birth is an empowering and supportive experience. Moms are surrounded by a network of caregivers, doulas, or midwives who uplift and advocate for their birthing choices. It's a team effort, all focused on creating a positive birthing experience.

🌌 Calm and Focused Environment: Say goodbye to the movie's exaggerated chaos! Natural birth settings are intentionally designed to be calm, peaceful, and soothing. Dimmed lights, soft music, and a serene atmosphere help moms stay focused and relaxed throughout labor.

💕 Emotional Connection: While Hollywood may depict birth scenes as wild and frantic, real-life natural birth celebrates the full spectrum of emotions. It's a moment of deep emotional connection with oneself and the new life growing within. Moms are encouraged to express themselves freely, surrounded by a loving and supportive environment.

🌈 Joy and Elation: Birth is undoubtedly intense, but it's also a moment of immense joy and elation. In the midst of the birthing process, the room is filled with overwhelming love and happiness as a new life enters the world. It's a moment that can't be fully captured in a movie scene.

As we bid farewell to the Hollywood hype, let's embrace the truth about natural birth: it's a beautiful, empowering, and meaningful journey filled with love, support, and joy. It's a celebration of life and the incredible strength of moms like you!

So, to all the mamas and mamas-to-be out there, remember this: your birth experience is unique, beautiful, and yours to cherish. Embrace the journey with confidence, knowing that you have the knowledge, support, and love to make it an empowering and memorable moment in your life.

Have you experienced the beauty of natural birth? Share your real-life birthing experiences with us in the comments below. Let's inspire each other with the true magic of birth! 💖👶

#DebunkingMovieMyths #NaturalBirthTruths #EmpoweredBirth #SupportiveBirthingTeam #CalmAndSereneBirth #EmotionalConnection #JoyfulBirthing #PositiveBirthExperience #BirthingWithLove #MomStrength #RealLifeBirth #BeautifulBirth #MamaPower #BirthMyths #BirthTruth #BirthExperiences #BirthInspiration #BirthingWithConfidence #ShareYourStory #EmpoweringBirth #BirthCelebration #MamaCommunity #BirthingTruths #BirthLove #NaturalBirthJourney #BirthBlog #BirthExperience

Welcoming Baby Number Two: Tips for a Smooth Transition

Bringing a second baby into your family is an exciting and transformative experience. As you prepare to expand your heart and home, it's natural to have questions about how to navigate this new chapter.

Fear not! We've got you covered with these helpful tips to ensure a smooth and joyful transition as you welcome your second bundle of joy.

1. Prepare Your Firstborn: One of the keys to a successful transition is involving your older child in the preparations. Talk to them about their upcoming role as a big brother or sister, read books about sibling relationships, and let them feel the baby's movements. Encourage their curiosity and address any concerns they may have, ensuring they feel included and excited about their new sibling.

2. Establish Routines: Maintaining predictable routines can provide stability during times of change. Prepare your firstborn for the new baby's arrival by establishing consistent daily routines well in advance. This will help them adjust more easily once the baby comes home. Additionally, involving them in simple caregiving tasks, such as fetching diapers or helping with gentle playtime, can foster their sense of responsibility and connection with the baby.

3. Create Special Bonding Time: While caring for a newborn demands attention, it's crucial to carve out quality one-on-one time with your older child. Schedule special activities, like reading their favorite book or going on outings together, to reassure them of their significance and to strengthen your bond. These moments will make them feel valued and cherished, even amidst the demands of a newborn.

4. Accept Help and Delegate: Don't hesitate to accept help from friends, family, or hired professionals during the early postpartum period. Whether it's assistance with household chores, meal preparation, or babysitting, this support will alleviate some of the pressures and give you more time to focus on bonding with your new baby and tending to your older child's needs. Check out our postpartum doula packages HERE.

5. Foster Sibling Bonding: Encourage a positive and loving relationship between your children by facilitating interactions and shared experiences. Involve your older child in caring for the baby, such as fetching diapers or singing lullabies together. Organize family activities that promote bonding, like family movie nights or outings that include everyone. These moments will help create lifelong connections between siblings.

6. Practice Self-Care: Amidst the demands of caring for two little ones, it's vital to prioritize self-care. Take time for yourself, even if it's just a few minutes each day, to engage in activities that bring you joy and rejuvenate your spirit. Whether it's a bubble bath, a walk in nature, or practicing mindfulness, self-care ensures you have the energy and emotional well-being to meet the needs of your growing family.

Welcoming a second baby is a beautiful journey filled with love, challenges, and countless precious moments. Remember, every family is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Trust your instincts, be flexible, and most importantly, cherish the journey as you witness the beautiful bond between your children blossom. Enjoy this remarkable time as your family grows in love and connection.

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Renee is co-owner of Transitions: Doula & Life Services in Sioux Falls, SD. Renee’s goal is that every person has their very best birth and postpartum. Renee helps birthing persons and their partners accomplish this goal by connecting them with Transitions Doulas who provide loving physical and emotional support throughout pregnancy, birth, and beyond. In addition to running the agency, Renee also provides postpartum doula support, lactation support, and childbirth education.

What to Expect from HypnoBirthing Classes

What to Expect from HypnoBirthing Classes

Pregnancy and childbirth are beautiful, transformative experiences, but they can also be accompanied by anxiety and fear.

HypnoBirthing offers a unique approach to birth preparation. Through deep relaxation, breathing techniques, visualization, and self-hypnosis, HypnoBirthing aims to empower women and their birth partners to have a positive, calm, and informed birth experience. Here's what you can expect from this transformative journey.

1. Understanding the Philosophy: We begin by introducing the philosophy behind the approach. You'll learn about the mind-body connection, the impact of fear on the birthing process, and the principles of HypnoBirthing. The classes emphasize the belief that birth is a natural and normal physiological process, and that by letting go of fear and embracing relaxation, you can enhance your body's ability to birth naturally and comfortably.

2. Learning Self-Hypnosis Techniques: One of the central components of HypnoBirthing is self-hypnosis. You'll be taught techniques to induce deep relaxation and enter a state of focused concentration, where you can tap into your subconscious mind and release any fears or anxieties related to childbirth. These techniques help you to reframe your mindset, build confidence, and create a positive birthing experience.

3. Mastering Breathing and Relaxation Techniques: HypnoBirthing classes emphasize the importance of proper breathing techniques for relaxation and pain management during labor. You'll practice various breathing exercises that help you remain calm and centered throughout each stage of labor. These techniques not only promote physical relaxation but also help release tension and allow the body to work harmoniously during childbirth.

4. Understanding the Anatomy and Physiology of Birth: To empower you with knowledge, HypnoBirthing classes provide a comprehensive understanding of the anatomy and physiology of labor and birth. You'll learn about the stages of labor, the role of hormones, and the physical changes that occur during childbirth. This knowledge helps you to trust your body's innate wisdom and approach birth with a sense of understanding and confidence.

5. Exploring Visualization and Affirmations: Visualization and positive affirmations are powerful tools used in HypnoBirthing. You'll learn to create vivid mental images of a peaceful and gentle birth, reinforcing your belief in your body's ability to birth naturally. By integrating positive affirmations, you can replace fear-based thoughts with affirmations that promote relaxation, confidence, and trust in the birthing process.

6. Building a Supportive Birth Team: HypnoBirthing acknowledges the importance of a supportive birth team. During classes, partners are actively involved in learning and practicing techniques that enable them to provide effective support during labor. The classes foster a deep connection between partners, creating a unified and supportive birth environment.

7. Developing a Birth Plan: HypnoBirthing classes guide you in creating a personalized birth plan that aligns with your desires and preferences. You'll learn about different birth options, interventions, and how to communicate effectively with healthcare providers to make informed decisions during your birth journey.

HypnoBirthing can transform your childbirth experience, allowing you to approach birth with confidence, calmness, and trust. By attending HypnoBirthing classes, you'll gain valuable knowledge, learn powerful techniques for relaxation and pain management, and cultivate a positive mindset towards birth. Remember, each birth is unique, and while HypnoBirthing can significantly enhance your birthing experience, it's important to remain flexible and open to the unexpected, which HypnoBirthing teaches you how to do calmly and confidently.

Renee is co-owner of Transitions: Doula & Life Services in Sioux Falls, SD. Renee’s goal is that every person has their very best birth and postpartum. Renee helps birthing persons and their partners accomplish this goal by connecting them with Transitions Doulas who provide loving physical and emotional support throughout pregnancy, birth, and beyond. In addition to running the agency, Renee also provides postpartum doula support, lactation support, and childbirth education.