choices in childbirth NY

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T H E N E W YO R K G U I D E 
H E A LT H Y
B I R T H
to a
NO4
2009 10
of a series
Published by Choices in Childbirth
president: elan v. mcallister
executive director: rebecca hankin benghiat
program manager: kelly m. renn
advertising: camille abbe
staff: malorie ferrick, leslie gold, alexandra hochman,
mary esther malloy-hopwood, julia jolly
editors: neile king & milon nagi
cover photo: leah michaelson
additional photography: shara frederick, 
nicole heidbreder & sarah tew
designer: simon does llc
webmasters: aran deltac & evelyn foreman 
printer: new american graphics
441 lexington avenue, 19th floor, new york, ny, 10017
212.983.4122 www.choicesinchildbirth.org
Contents
welcome 02
becoming an educated consumer 03
cims’ mother-friendly 04
childbirth initiative 
transparency in maternity care: 06
the birth survey
ARTICLE I have you thought about having 08
a doula at your birth?
by PENNY SIMKIN, PT, CD(DONA) 
tribute to ilana stein 11
questions to ask your care provider 12
cesarean section rates 14
at new york metro hospitals
know your legal rights 17
ARTICLE II vbac: a safe alternative 20
to repeat cesarean 
by NICETTE JUKELEVICS, MA, ICCE
provider listings 25
ARTICLE III the golden hour: getting 90
the best start with your newborn
by ROBERT W. SEARS, MD 
resources 95
advertisements 102
choosing a home birth 112
Cover Photo: Joy and Xiana, 1 month old (©Leah Michaelson)
Opposite: Raven, 4.5 years old 
This Page (clockwise from top left): Colleen, laboring; Zackary, 
6 weeks old (© Sarah Tew); Esme, 1 week old.
© 2009 Choices in Childbirth All rights reserved. This guide, or parts
thereof, may not be reproduced in any form without permission.
This guide is dedicated to the memory of 
our friend and mentor, Ilana Stein. 
( tribute: page 11 )
the NEW YORK GUIDE to a HEALTHY BIRTH 02.03
Your pregnancy and the birth of your child are your
important first acts of motherhood. The responsibility,
emotions and physical challenges involved parallel
your future life as a parent. This guide will help you
find the tools and support you need as you begin to
care for yourself and your baby. 
about us
Choices in Childbirth educates the public about
birthing options. We believe that an informed woman
is an empowered woman. So, in 2006 we created 
The New York Guide to a Healthy Birth to help you make 
educated decisions about your birth. We know that
the bottom line for just about every birthing woman
is to emerge with a healthy child. But we also know
that women don’t have to choose between a positive
birth experience and a safe one. This guide provides
information and guidance to help you find what’s
best for you.
thank you
Choices in Childbirth would like to thank the 
Coalition for Improving Maternity Services (CIMS) for
inspiring and continuing to support this publication.
Thank you to the women of the Metropolitan Doula
Group of New York City for sharing your vast 
knowledge with us and for serving the families of 
New York City so well.
We are grateful to our article contributors for sharing
your wisdom here. Thank you to the practitioners
listed in this guide for helping the next generation
enter this world in a healthy, peaceful way. 
We would like to recognize the work of Inwood House
in providing support for adolescent mothers. We are
grateful to Joy and baby Xiana for appearing on our
cover,photographed by Leah Michaelson.
And thank you to the mothers, fathers and babies 
who continue to enrich and inspire our work and 
our lives.
Welcome to the Fourth Edition of 
The New York Guide to a Healthy Birth!
This guide is here to help you make important 
decisions as you plan your birth. A woman’s choice of care
provider for her pregnancy and birth is the single most important 
decision she can make to determine the type of birth experience she 
will have. Not all care providers are created equal. 
Partners in a medical practice sometimes have very
different ways of practicing, and differing rates of 
cesarean section and other interventions. It is 
important to consider your priorities for childbirth
and to carefully interview the person who will be 
your healthcare provider. 
Here are some ways you can determine who you want
to work with during your pregnancy and birth and
where you want your birth to happen: 
• Visit www.choicesinchildbirth.org to find rates 
of episiotomy, cesarean section, induction and
other birth interventions at local hospitals. 
• Ask the midwives and doctors you interview what
their personal rates of these interventions are. 
• Visit the “Connect” page at www.thebirthsurvey.com
to check out patients’ ratings of care providers 
and facilities in your area.
• Do not be afraid to ask questions—your research
and judgment are your best guides in choosing the
right care for you. For a list of questions to get the
conversation started, see page 12.
• Remember it is never too late to switch care
providers. 
The Mother-Friendly Childbirth Initiative is a 
document that defines what good maternity care is.
You can read more about it on the next page. Keep
these principles in mind when meeting with your 
care providers. 
Prior to having services listed in this guide, each 
care provider must sign a statement in agreement 
with the Mother-Friendly Childbirth Initiative and
pledge to adhere to these principles when working
with pregnant and birthing women.
becoming an 
educated consumer
04.05the NEW YORK GUIDE to a HEALTHY BIRTH
Mother~Friendly
Childbirth Initiative
autonomy Every woman should have the opportunity to:
•Have a healthy and joyous birth experience for herself and
her family, regardless of her age or circumstances;
•Give birth as she wishes in an environment in which she
feels nurtured and secure, and her emotional well-being,
privacy, and personal preferences are respected;
•Have access to the full range of options for pregnancy,
birth, and nurturing her baby, and to accurate information
on all available birthing sites, caregivers, and practices;
•Receive accurate and up-to-date information about the
benefits and risks of all procedures, drugs, and tests suggested
for use during pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period,
with the rights to informed consent and informed refusal;
•Receive support for making informed choices about what is best
for her and her baby based on her individual values and beliefs.
do no harm
• Interventions should not be applied routinely during 
pregnancy, birth, or the postpartum period. Many standard
medical tests, procedures, technologies, and drugs carry
risks to both mother and baby, and should be avoided in the
absence of specific scientific indications for their use.
• If complications arise during pregnancy, birth, or the post-
partum period, medical treatments should be evidence-based.
responsibility
•Each caregiver is responsible for the quality of care she or
he provides.
•Maternity care practice should be based not on the needs of
the caregiver or provider, but solely on the needs of the
mother and child.
•Each hospital and birth center is responsible for the periodic
review and evaluation, according to current scientific 
evidence, of the effectiveness, risks, and rates of use of its
medical procedures for mothers and babies.
•Society, through both its government and the public health
establishment, is responsible for ensuring access to maternity
services for all women, and for monitoring the quality of
those services.
• Individuals are ultimately responsible for making informed
choices about the health care they and their babies receive.
© 1996 by The Coalition for Improving Maternity Services (CIMS). 
To learn more about the Coalition for Improving Maternity Services and to read
their excellent report, Evidence for the Ten Steps of Mother~Friendly Care, 
visit www.motherfriendly.org.
The First Consensus Initiative of 
the Coalition for Improving Maternity Services
principles
The principles outlined below are an excerptfrom the
Mother~Friendly Childbirth Initiative. To read the full text
of this document, please visit the Coalition for Improving
Maternity Services website at www.motherfriendly.org.
normalcy of the birthing process
•Birth is a normal, natural, and healthy process.
•Women and babies have the inherent wisdom necessary
for birth.
•Babies are aware, sensitive human beings at the time of
birth, and should be acknowledged and treated as such.
•Breastfeeding provides the optimum nourishment for
newborns and infants.
•Birth can safely take place in hospitals, birth centers, 
and homes.
•The midwifery model of care, which supports and protects
the normal birth process, is the most appropriate for the
majority of women during pregnancy and birth.
empowerment
•A woman’s confidence and ability to give birth and to
care for her baby are enhanced or diminished by every
person who gives her care, and by the environment in
which she gives birth.
•A mother and baby are distinct yet interdependent 
during pregnancy, birth, and infancy. Their 
interconnected–ness is vital and must be respected.
•Pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period are 
milestone events in the continuum of life. These 
experiences profoundly affect women, babies, fathers,
and families, and have important and long-lasting 
effects on society.
We Believe the Philosophical Cornerstones of 
Mother-Friendly Care to be as Follows:
the
Thanks to a groundbreaking new consumer tool
called The Birth Survey, women and families now have
more information to help in choosing maternity and
childbirth care. The Birth Survey was created by the
Coalition for Improving Maternity Services (CIMS)
and piloted in New York City by Choices in Childbirth.
It became available nation-wide last summer and is
online at www.thebirthsurvey.com. 
Like Angie’s List or Consumer Reports, The Birth 
Survey helps people evaluate the goods and services
they are shopping for. In this case the service being
reviewed is maternity care. The Birth Survey asks women
to provide information about their birth experience
specific to the practitioner (doctor or midwife) and
birth environment (birth center, home or hospital)
that served them. This experiential data is paired with
officially collected hospital intervention rates acquired
from the Department of Health. Collectively, this 
information provides the public with a tool that will
help women make maternity care decisions that are
right for their individual needs. 
help us spread the word! 
If you would like to help promote The Birth Survey,
please go to the “PR Materials” section of the website
for downloadable tags and banners. Or become an
ambassador for the project and learn how to promote
The Birth Survey in your community.
At Choices in Childbirth, we believe in the value 
of providing the public with insight into provider 
practices and hospital protocols. A woman’s birth
outcome is directly impacted by her choice of where
and with whom she will birth. We believe that women
have a right to know as much about their options 
as possible. The Birth Survey directly addresses this need. 
transparency in maternity
care: the birth survey 
SHARE
If you have birthed in the United States in the last
three years, please visit www.thebirthsurvey.com
and click on the “Share” button. This will 
take you directly to the survey where you can
anonymously share information about your
birth experience. 
CONNECT
To view preliminary results from birth survey
data, click on the “Connect” button. You 
will be able to see how other women in your
community have rated the care they’ve received
from local doctors, midwives, hospitals and
birth centers. 
LEARN
Do you know your hospital’s cesarean section
rate? Click on the “Learn” button to get 
intervention rates for hospitals in your area.
06.07the NEW YORK GUIDE to a HEALTHY BIRTH
TheBirthSurvey
www.thebirthsurvey.com
S H A R E
your pregnancy
care experience
give feedback now
08.09the NEW YORK GUIDE to a HEALTHY BIRTH
As expectant parents, you are probably preparing 
extensively for childbirth and early parenting—
attending classes, watching videos, reading books 
and articles, touring your hospital, practicing 
relaxation and comfort techniques, preparing a 
birth plan and discussing your hopes and concerns
with your doctor or midwife and other parents. 
Such preparation improves the quality of your birth
experience in many ways. You understand the birth
process and know about your options for care, 
ways to cope with pain and the clinical measures 
commonly used to maintain safety and labor
progress. In short, childbirth preparation takes 
many of the surprises out of labor and helps you 
to meaningfully participate in your care. 
Yet the journey through birth is unpredictable and
stressful. Even well-prepared women or couples 
often find it difficult to apply their knowledge in 
the midst of intense labor. It helps to have guidance
and reassurance from experts so you can relate the 
intense physical sensations and emotions of labor to
what you already know intellectually. Your nurse,
midwife or doctor will offer some guidance, but may
be limited by their clinical duties and the needs of
other laboring women in their care. And some are
better than others in giving such support.
To be sure you will get the kind of help you need in
labor, consider having a birth doula. A doula is with
you continuously through labor. She is trained and
experienced in providing emotional support, physical
comfort and non-clinical advice. She usually meets
with you before labor to discuss your preferences 
and concerns. She learns the role you both want 
the father or partner to play. For example, some
partners prefer to be the primary support person—
with the doula there as a guide, errand-runner 
(for beverages, ice chips, hot packs, warm blankets,
partner’s food), helper (often a woman needs two
people helping during contractions) and stand-in 
(if the partner needs a break). Other partners want 
to be with the woman they love to share in the joy 
of the birth of their child, but feel more comfortable
leaving the primary support role to the doula. 
The doula is a constant—no breaks (unless you are
asleep), no shift changes, no clinical responsibilities
or other women to care for. And she understands
what you are going through. Her knowledge and 
experience reassure and comfort you and guide you
in breathing techniques, positioning, massage and
use of the bath, shower, birth ball, hot and cold 
packs and other comfort items.
have you thought 
about having a doula 
at your birth? 
by Penny Simkin, PT, CD(DONA) 
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10.11the NEW YORK GUIDE to a HEALTHY BIRTH
As one grateful father said, “I heaved a big sigh of 
relief when she walked in. I hadn’t realized how much
pressure I had been feeling.” A new mother said, 
“I don’t know what we would have done without her.”
Your doula’s goals are to learn your preferences 
regarding the use of pain medication and any fears 
or concerns you have. In labor she helps you 
accomplish your wishes and allay your fears, but also
helps you make adjustments if unexpected demands
or complications arise. 
The continuous assistance of a doula throughout
labor has been proven in numerous scientific trials 
to improve both physical and psychological outcomes
of the birth. By alleviating the mother’s emotional
stress (which can have a negative impact on labor
progress and the baby’s well-being), doulas reduce
the mother’s need for pain relief medications. Most
studies have also reported shorter labors, less need
for oxytocin to speed labor and fewer deliveries by
forceps, vacuum extractor and cesarean when doulas
are present.
In addition, the research has shown that women’s 
satisfaction with their birth experiences, their 
postpartum psychological state, success in breastfeeding
and interactions with their newborns are all improved
when a doula is present during childbirth. Research
alsoshows that when doulas are in attendance, fathers
take fewer breaks away from the mother, remain
closer to her and touch her more. The doula seems 
to relieve the stress and some of the burden on the 
father, allowing him to comfortably give more 
support to his loved one.
Whether you plan to birth at a hospital or at home,
with medication or without, a doula can make a 
positive difference at your birth. If you are interested
in learning more about doula care see page 97 for
listings of organizations that train and support doulas.
To contact a New York based doula see page 54.
Penny Simkin is a physical therapist, childbirth educator, doula, 
birth counselor, doula trainer and author of books and articles 
for parents and professionals. She is a frequent presenter
at conferences and workshops for maternity care professionals.
have you thought about… (cont’d)
This edition of the Guide is
dedicated to Ilana Stein – labor
support doula, childbirth 
educator, co-founder of the
Metropolitan Doula Group,
Certified Hypnobirthing 
Instructor, DONA-Approved
Doula Trainer, Director of
BirthFocus, recipient of the
2007 Penny Simkin Award for
Doula Spirit and Mentoring (DONA International)
and childbirth pioneer since 1983. 
Ilana’s message was clear: birth should be honored and
treated with respect and integrity. Her energy for birth
seemed endless. As Ilana’s apprentice, I saw the value a
birthing woman gains by having someone who under-
stands, listens and completely focuses on her. As a doula,
Ilana made a difference at every birth she attended. 
By forming the Metropolitan
Doula Group, Ilana created a
strong support system for
doulas. This group, as well as
her role as the director of
BirthFocus and as a doula
trainer, enabled her message 
to be heard. “Doula” became 
a household word. 
Ilana passed away last year after a four-year battle 
with ovarian cancer. During her illness, she continued
to teach us about the power of support. She faced her
disease with grace, courage and strength. She shared
her very personal journey, showing that community
can empower anyone during the extraordinary 
challenges of life and death. 
Ilana often said, “Every woman who wants a doula 
deserves one.” It is my hope that the work she 
cherished continue and that her wish be fulfilled. 
Meg Darnell, LMT 
Co-Founder of the Metropolitan Doula Group 
Dean of Alumni and Student Services 
Swedish Institute, College of Health Sciences
ilana stein
12.13the NEW YORK GUIDE to a HEALTHY BIRTH
1 Is there a limit to the number of people who can 
accompany me during my birth?
How do you feel about a labor support professional
such as a doula or massage therapist joining my 
birth team?
2 Will I be able to eat and drink in labor?
3 If I were interested in having a natural, unmedicated
birth, how would you feel about it?
4 What comfort measures do you recommend?
• Freely changing positions and walking around
• Water therapy (shower/tub)
• A doula
• Epidural
• Narcotics (Stadol/Demerol)
5 What would you recommend if my water breaks 
before contractions have begun? How long after 
my water breaks would you recommend induction 
if my labor doesn’t start on its own?
6 What are your protocols regarding my due date, 
i.e. inducing labor at 40 wks? 41 wks?
7 Do you believe in active management of the first 
stage of labor? For example, would progress of less
than one cm per hour call for artificial rupture of
membranes (AROM) or Pitocin? If everything is fine
with me and my baby, will I be able to labor at my 
own pace and for as long as I need?
Here are some suggested questions to encourage dialogue and to help
you get a sense of your care provider’s approach. It is a good idea 
to interview at least 2 or 3 providers. It is never too late to change
providers if you are not comfortable with the answers you receive.
8 If you feel that labor has to be stimulated what 
methods do you recommend?
• Herbs
• Nipple stimulation
• Castor oil
• Intercourse before spontaneous rupture of
membranes (SROM)
• Enema
• Acupuncture
• Stripping of membranes
• Artificial rupture of membranes (AROM)
• Pitocin
9 What is your protocol regarding the following 
procedures and how often do you perform them?
• IVs
• Continuous versus intermittent fetal monitoring
• Internal fetal monitoring
• Artificial rupturing of the membranes (AROM) at _ cm
• Epidural
• Assisted vaginal delivery (forceps/ vacuum)
• Episiotomy
10 What is your cesarean rate? What factors do you believe
contribute to that rate? What is your VBAC rate?
What are your standard protocols for VBAC mothers?
11 Will I be able to choose the position in which I will
push and give birth such, as side-lying, all fours, 
or squatting?
12 Can my baby remain with me at all times from the
moment of birth? Do you support skin to skin contact
between me and my baby immediately after birth? 
13 (For home birth midwives) How long will you stay
with me after my baby is born?
14 (For home birth midwives) What is your rate of transfer
to the hospital? Who are your consultant obstetricians?
Will I be able to meet or interview them?
For more Questions to Ask Your Care Provider, visit our website:
www.choicesinchildbirth.org
questions to ask your 
care provider
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14.15the NEW YORK GUIDE to a HEALTHY BIRTH
The World Health Organization recommends that the cesarean 
section rate for industrialized nations should not exceed 15%. 
A safe range, as determined by WHO experts, is 10-15%.
%
2000 2007 increase
United States 22.0% 31.8 % 44.5%
New York State 24.7% 33.7 % 36.4%
%
manhattan 2000 2007 increase
New York Downtown Hospital 11.1% 22.3% 100.9%
Roosevelt Hospital 28.7% 25.0% —
Bellevue Hospital 18.4% 27.3% 48.4%
Metropolitan Hospital Center 25.3% 28.1% 11.1%
Beth Israel Hospital 24.0% 29.8% 24.2%
NY Hosp./The Allen Pavilion 22.9% 29.7% 29.7%
Harlem Hospital Center 23.0% 29.9% 30.0%
St. Vincent’s Hospital 24.9% 30.0% 20.5%
St. Luke’s Hospital 26.2% 30.1% 14.9%
Mount Sinai Hospital 23.7% 32.7% 38.0%
New York Univ. Medical 
Center (Tisch Hospital) 25.6% 33.5% 30.9%
Columbia Presbyterian 
Medical Center 29.2% 39.0% 33.6%
NY Hospital/ Weill Cornell 
Medical Center 28.3% 39.2% 38.5%
Lenox Hill Hospital 29.8% 40.1% 34.6%
%
queens 2000 2007 increase
Queens Hospital Center 18.5% 26.3% 42.2%
Elmhurst Hospital Center 19.8% 27.1% 36.9%
Forest Hills Hospital 34.5% 31.9% —
NY Hosp/Med Ctr of Queens 25.3% 33.0% 30.4%
St. John’s Episcopal Hosp 
South Shore Division 25.2% 36.8% 46.0%
St. John’s Queens Hospital 23.4% 37.8% 61.5%
Jamaica Hospital 28.1% 39.1% 39.1%
Flushing Hosp/Med Ctr 30.7% 39.4% 28.3%
Long Island Jewish Med Ctr 27.4% 40.3% 47.1%
%
staten island 2000 2007 increase
Staten Island Univ Hosp 22.3% 23.6% 5.8%
Richmond Univ Med Ctr 34.7% 44.7% 28.8%
%
brooklyn 2000 2007 increase
Maimonides Med Center 14.9% 20.9% 40.3%
Woodhull Medical & 
Mental Health Center 24.2% 24.3% 0.4%
Kings County Hospital 21.2% 30.5% 43.9%
Lutheran Medical Center 24.6% 30.5% 24.0%
Victory Memorial Hospital 32.6% 30.8% —
Wycoff Heights Hospital 24.2% 33.2% 37.2%
Brooklyn Hospital Center 29.6% 34.0% 14.9%
Coney Island Hospital 19.7% 34.4% 74.6%
Long Island College Hosp 31.1% 38.4% 23.5%
Brookdale Univ Hosp Med Ctr 24.1% 39.8% 65.1%
NY Methodist Hospital 28.5% 39.8% 39.6%
Univ. Hospital of Brooklyn 26.4% 40.2% 52.3%
%
bronx 2000 2007 increase
North Central Bronx Hospital 17.4% 18.5% 6.3%
St. Barnabas Hospital 20.1% 20.7% 3.0%
Jacobi Hospital 14.1% 24.1% 70.9%
Our Lady of Mercy Med Ctr 24.1% 30.1% 24.9%
Lincoln Medical & 
Mental Health Center 23.8% 30.7% 29.0%
Bronx Lebanon Hospital 21.0% 31.3% 49.0%
Weiler Hospital 22.6% 31.6% 39.8%
%
westchester 2000 2007 increase
Phelps Mem Hosp Assn-
North Tarrytown 18.9% 25.2% 33.3%
Hudson Valley Hospital Ctr-
Cortlandt Manor 26.7% 36.0% 34.8%
North Westchester Hospital-
Mount Kisco 28.1% 39.5% 40.6%
White Plains Hospital Ctr-
White Plains 31.5% 43.6% 38.4%
St. Johns Riverside 
Hospital-Yonkers 22.4% 45.1% 101.3%
cesareansection rates for
new york metro hospitals 
comparative: 2000 & 2007*
16.17the NEW YORK GUIDE to a HEALTHY BIRTH
know your legal rights
This is a compilation of federal and New York State laws 
on a variety of topics relevant to maternity care and rights.
The information below is adapted from various texts and 
is not intended to be legal advice.
respect and nondiscrimination 
• You have the right to receive considerate and respectful
care in a clean and safe environment free of unnecessary
restraints.
• You have the right to receive treatment without discrim-
ination as to race, color, religion, sex, national origin,
disability, sexual orientation or source of payment.
• www.health.state.ny.us/nysdoh/hospital/english2.htm#regulations
consistent and timely treatment
• You have the right to be treated in a hospital if you arrive
in active labor, unless the staff transfers you in a safe
and timely manner. You are to be cared for from the
time of contractions through the delivery of the baby
and the placenta.
• You have the right to a health care professional who 
does not abandon or neglect you when you are in 
need of immediate professional care, without making
reasonable arrangements for the continuation of such
care. The health care professional must not abandon
his/her practice without reasonable notice if this will 
seriously impair the delivery of professional care to 
patients or clients. 
• www.emtala.com 
• www.op.nysed.gov/part29.htm 
informed decision making
• You have the right to participate in decisions about your
health care and to understand what you are being told
about your care and treatment.
• You have the right to receive all the information that you
need to give informed consent for any proposed procedure
or treatment. This information shall include the possible
risks and benefits of the procedure or treatment.
• You have the right to refuse treatment and to be told
what effect this may have on your health.
• You have the right to complain [without fear of reprisal]
about the care and services you are receiving and to 
have the hospital respond to your complaint in writing.
If you are not satisfied with the hospital’s response, 
*At printing, the most recent data available from the New York State Department of 
Health was for births occurring in 2007.
For 2000-2007 cesarean section statistics and to view the rates of other obstetrical 
interventions for hospitals in New York State, go to www.choicesinchildbirth.org. 
resources for learning more
Childbirth Connection’s website at www.childbirthconnection.org includes
many resources to help pregnant women learn more about cesarean section and
other childbearing topics. Resources include What Every Pregnant Woman Needs to 
Know About Cesarean Section and results from the Listening to Mothers I and II surveys.
For additional information about cesarean section and vaginal birth after 
cesarean (VBAC), visit the International Cesarean Awareness Network, Inc. 
at www.ican-online.org or visit the New York City chapter at
www.freewebs.com/icanofnyc.
cesarean section rates (cont’d)
%
westchester (cont’d) 2000 2007 increase
Westchester County 
Medical Center-Valhalla 42.9% 47.5% 10.7%
Lawrence Hospital-Bronxville 34.4% 52.7% 53.2%
%
long island 2000 2007 increase
nassau 
Nassau University Med Ctr-
East Meadow 23.7% 30.9% 30.4%
South Nassau Community 
Hospital-Oceanside 30.3% 40.2% 32.7%
North Shore University 
Hospital-Manhasset 30.2% 41.8% 38.4%
Mercy Med Ctr-Rockville Ctr 31.8% 43.2% 35.8%
Winthrop-University 
Hospital-Mineola 27.8% 44.4% 59.7%
North Shore University 
Hospital-Plainview 30.5% 46.7% 53.1%
suffolk 
Brookhaven Memorial 
Hospital-Patchogue 25.2% 23.7% —
Southampton Hospital-
Southampton 31.3% 33.9% 8.3%
Peconic Bay Medical Center 29.8% 38.6% 29.5%
Southside Hospital-Bay Shore 28.8% 38.9% 35.1%
Univ Hospital-Stony Brook 33.8% 40.6% 20.1%
Huntington Hospital-
Huntington 29.4% 42.9% 45.9%
St. Charles Hospital-
Port Jefferson 30.5% 47.3% 55.1%
St. Catherine of Siena 
Hospital-Smithtown 30.4% 49.0% 61.2%
Good Samaritan Hospital-
West Islip 32.7% 49.1% 50.2%
18.19the NEW YORK GUIDE to a HEALTHY BIRTH
know your legal rights (cont’d)
you can complain to the New York State Health 
Department by calling 1-800-804-5447 or writing to:
NYS Dept. of Health, Centralized Hospital Intake Program, 433 River
Street, 6th floor, Troy, New York 12180.
• www.health.state.ny.us/nysdoh/hospital/english1.htm
• www.health.state.ny.us/nysdoh/hospital/english2.htm#regulations
•www.health.state.ny.us/nysdoh/consumer/director/hospcare.htm
maternity information act
• The Maternity Information Act, enacted in New York
State in 1989, requires hospitals and birth centers to
provide a brochure for expectant parents and the public.
The brochure should provide intervention definitions
and the most recent annual rates of induction of labor,
cesarean section, episiotomy and other obstetrical 
interventions; the hospital’s percentage of vaginal births
after cesarean (VBAC) and vaginal breech deliveries;
and other information including the percentage of
midwife attended deliveries and the availability of
rooming-in (keeping your baby with you after birth). 
If you have given birth within the last three years and you
did not receive a document with this information, you
can make a complaint to the Civil Rights Bureau of the
NY Attorney General’s office by calling: 212.416.8250.
To learn more about the Maternity Information Act and
about Choices in Childbirth’s work to ensure that the Act
is enforced, please visit www.choicesinchildbirth.org. 
• www.health.state.ny.us/nysdoh/hospital/english3.htm#maternity
• www.health.state.ny.us/facilities/hospital/maternity/public_
health_law_section_2803-j.htm 
insurance coverage for home birth
• If you choose a home birth with a qualified midwife, you
have the right to have your maternity care and birth paid
for by your health insurance company even if it takes
place with an out-of-network provider. If your insurance
company does not provide a home birth midwife 
in-network, they must cover the home birth midwife of
your choice at in-network rates, so long as this provider
meets the minimum requirements of the plan. 
•www.ins.state.ny.us/ogco2005/rg050409.htm 
maternity leave 
• You may be entitled to up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-
protected leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act.
This federal law applies to both women and men who
work in a public agency, school or a company with 50 or
more employees within 75 miles. The leave can be used
for pregnancy complications as well as for the birth and
care of your newborn.
• You have the right to claim Disability Benefits for the period
you are unable to work due to pregnancy complications,
birth and the postpartum period (up to 26 weeks).
• If you are unemployed or leave your job due to your
pregnancy, you have the right to claim benefits according
to the same rules that apply to other claimants. It is illegal
for you to be denied benefits because of your pregnancy. 
• www.dol.gov/dol/topic/benefits-leave/fmla.htm 
• www.dol.gov/compliance/laws/comp-fmla.htm
• www.wcb.state.ny.us/content/main/offthejob/Common
Questions_DB.jsp 
• www.nysegov.com/citguide.cfm?ques_id=528&super-cat=
36&cat=344&content=relatedfaqs 
breastfeeding
• You have the right to breastfeed your child in any location
in New York State, public or private, regardless of
whether or not your nipple is covered during or incidental
to the breastfeeding.
• Breastfeeding is not considered by New York State as 
exposure of a person.
• You have the right to breastfeed your child at any location
in a federal building or on federal property, as long 
as you and your child are otherwise authorized to be
present at the location.
• You have the right to time and private space to pump
breast milk in your workplace until your child is three
years old. You may use either existing paid breaks or
uncompensated additional time. Your employer must
not discriminateagainst you for exercising this right. 
• If you are the inmate of a correctional institution with a
nursing child under the age of one year, you have the
right to have your child accompany you to the institution,
so long as you are physically fit to have the care of this child. 
• www.llli.org/law/bills30.html 
international breastfeeding icon
This symbol indicates baby-friendly
areas and breastfeeding-friendly 
facilities, as well as increasing aware-
ness of breastfeeding. 
20.21the NEW YORK GUIDE to a HEALTHY BIRTH
As recently as 1995, one out of four women with a
prior cesarean had a vaginal birth after cesarean
(VBAC). But today, the VBAC rate has plummeted 
to less than one in ten. This is mainly as a result of
several factors, including highly-publicized (and
largely unfounded) fears about the supposed “dangers”
of VBAC, resistance by malpractice insurers to cover
VBAC and the high profitability of repeat cesareans. 
As the cesarean rate continues to climb year after year,
it becomes increasingly important for women to have
access to VBAC, and to more information about the
benefits and risks of VBAC and repeat cesarean. 
low risk of uterine rupture
The single most controversial issue regarding VBAC is
the possibility of a uterine rupture, the separation of
the uterine scar from a prior cesarean during labor or
birth. The risk is less than 1% for women with one prior low-segment
horizontal uterine scar, and 60 to 75% of mothers who choose 
VBAC successfully avoid a repeat cesarean. In addition, the 
likelihood of having a safe VBAC actually increases 
with each subsequent labor and birth. 
repeat cesarean is not necessarily safer
While some argue that VBAC is unsafe, the truth is
there is no evidence that routine repeat cesarean is 
any safer than a planned VBAC. To the contrary, there
is plenty of evidence about the risks of repeat cesarean
delivery, including:
•Higher risk of infection, adhesions, intestinal 
obstruction, chronic pain, ectopic pregnancy and
placental problems compared to mothers who 
have a successful VBAC.
•Increased risk for hemorrhage severe enough to 
require a blood transfusion due to placental 
problems from accumulating cesareans.
•Higher likelihood of being re-hospitalized for 
complications related to the surgery.
•Decreased fertility and increased risk of miscarriage
in future pregnancies.
•Greater likelihood of difficulty with mother-infant
attachment as well as establishing and continuing
breastfeeding. 
•Elevated risk for prematurity and serious neonatal
respiratory problems in baby. 
what if the uterine scar gives way? 
Even though the risk is very low, uterine rupture 
is a serious complication associated with VBAC and
requires immediate medical attention. If the uterine
scar gives way, a rapid cesarean is necessary. With a
rapid cesarean, mothers and babies usually have 
favorable outcomes, although sometimes serious
complications can arise. 
For most women, having a VBAC is safer than having
a repeat cesarean and it increases the safety of any 
future pregnancies and births for you and your baby.
For a more complete comparison of the relative 
risks and benefits of VBAC and cesarean, visit
www.childbirthconnection.org. 
Ultimately, the choice is up to you, your partner 
and your care provider whether VBAC is right for
your upcoming birth. Arm yourself with as much 
information as possible about the benefits and risks
of VBAC to help you make an informed choice. 
Nicette Jukelevics, MA, ICCE has taught perinatal, childbirth and VBAC
classes for over thirty years. She is the author of Understanding 
the Dangers of Cesarean Birth: Making Informed Decisions. You
can find many resources about lowering your odds for a cesarean
and planning a VBAC at www.dangersofcesareanbirth.com,
www.vbac.com and www.childbirthconnection.org.
vbac: a safe alternative
to repeat cesarean
by Nicette Jukelevics, MA, ICCE 
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Joy and Xiana, 1 month old (© Leah Michaelson)
I am unearthed
and unprepared
I have no inhibitions
as you can see
as my face reddens
as I grunt and groan
or how about when I laugh
uncontrollably unrefined
do you mind?
that I am rule-less
and clueless
and have a cry so perfected
that it drills into your sleep
and cracks open your eyes
and (as though that wasn’t enough)
gift you with aromas
that unhinge your breath
and make you blind
do you mind?
if I decorate you
with curdled milk
or sleep on your chest
or make your name
my first word
or get crabby
and whine
when I fall onto the floor
kicking and screaming
that you count beyond three
(maybe make it to ten)
to untangle your thoughts
and allow the gentle emergence
of creative consequences 
to unwind
do you mind?
for I am yet unearthed
unprepared and uninhibited
unstitched one day at a time
and need this wrap of innocence
do you mind?
– MTC 05/09
the NEW YORK GUIDE to a HEALTHY BIRTH 24.25
Acupuncture
Acupuncture and Healing Arts of Park Slope
Over 15 years experience treating women in pre-pregnancy,
pregnancy, labor preparation and postpartum. This 
includes menstrual issues, infertility, nausea, pain, fatigue,
edema etc. Offering neuro-emotional technique to facilitate
emotional preparedness for this major life change.
Name: Helene Kostre, L.Ac./M.S.
Address: 313 7TH STREET
BROOKLYN, NY 11215
Phone: 718.965.9458
Email: hkostre@parkslopeacupuncture.com
Web site: www.parkslopeacupuncture.com
Ancient Current Acupuncture & Chinese Herbs
Laurel Axen Carroll empowers your journey into 
motherhood by using acupuncture, herbs, massage, 
nutrition and labor support. Her holistic treatments 
facilitate a smooth transition from conception through 
gestation, labor, postpartum recovery and beyond.
Name: Laurel Axen Carroll, L.Ac, CD(DONA)
Address: 1318 AVENUE H
BROOKLYN, NY 11230
Phone: 917.862.7589
Email: laurel@ancientcurrent.com
Web site: www.ancientcurrent.com
Anna Panettiere, MS, L.Ac
Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine for many
women’s health issues including infertility, morning 
sickness, back pain during pregnancy, delayed labor, 
breech presentation, uterine fibroids, endometriosis 
and polycystic ovary syndrome.
Address: 154 W. 14TH STREET FOURTH FLOOR
NEW YORK, NY 10011
Phone: 646.486.5756
917.868.9277
Email: annapanettiere@aol.com
Web site: www.aphealingarts.com
Acupuncture
Birth Center
bodywork:
Abdominal Massage
Craniosacral Therapy
Massage Therapy
Physical Therapy
Reflexology
Reiki
Breastfeeding Support
Childbirth Education
Chiropractic Care
doula: 
Labor Support
Postpartum Support
First-Aid
Homeopathy
Midwifery Care
Natural Fertility Counseling
Nutrition
Obstetric Care
Pediatric Care 
Prenatal/Postpartum Counseling
Well-Woman Gynecological Care
Yoga & Fitness
provider listings
disclaimer: 
The Guide to a Healthy Birth (the “Guide”) is a compilation of
providers who have both submitted their information for inclusion in
this Guide edition and have indicated they provide services related to
pregnancy. Choices in Childbirth (“CiC”) does not recommend nor
endorse the competence or expertise of anyone listed and shall not be
responsible, directly or indirectly, for any damages or loss caused or
alleged to be caused by or in connection with the use of or reliance on
any provider in this Guide.
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26.27the NEW YORK GUIDE to a HEALTHY BIRTH
Element Natural Healing Arts
Acupuncture and herbal treatments focusing on pre- 
and postnatal care, women’s health, infertility, and 
menstrual irregularities. We collaborate with other 
healthcare professionals to provide an integrated 
approach to medicine and overall health and wellness.
Address: 518 HENRY STREET
BROOKLYN, NY 11231
Phone: 718.855.4850
Email: info@elementhealing.com
Web site: www.elementhealing.com
Five Seasons Healing
I provide gentle yet effective care for women and children
using acupuncture, Chinese herbs, massage, reiki and 
nutritional therapy. I offer fertility/pregnancy care, labor
preparation,doula support and postpartum care for
mother and newborn.
Name: Sharon Yeung, MS, L.Ac, Doula
Address: 80 E. 11TH STREET SUITE 407
NEW YORK, NY 10003
Phone: 917.538.5755
Email: sharon@fiveseasonshealing.com
Web site: www.fiveseasonshealing.com
Laura Gabbe, MS, L.Ac
More than 15 years experience, acupuncture and Chinese
herbs for women’s health. I specialize in treating women: 
pre-pregnancy, infertility, IVF, pregnancy, pre-birth, 
delayed labor and postpartum. Relaxing and effective 
treatments for women and their families.
Address: 329 ATLANTIC AVENUE
BROOKLYN, NY 11201
Phone: 718.596.6774
Email: lgabbelac@erols.com
Web site: www.providencedayspa.com
Sujaan M. Grimson, L.Ac, MTCM
I provide an integrative approach to the body based 
on traditional Chinese medical diagnosis utilizing
acupuncture/pressure, Chinese herbs, craniosacral 
therapy and nutrition. I specialize in women’s health 
including gynecology/fertility, pregnancy, birth and 
postpartum issues.
Address: 440 W. 34TH STREET SUITE 6G
NEW YORK, NY 10001
Phone: 212.563.0069
Email: sujaanny@gmail.com
Acupuncture (cont’d)
AXIOM Acupuncture Wellbeing
Nationally certified and extensively trained, Stephen is 
focused on meaningful contributions to your wellbeing. 
Integrating into your healthcare team, he provides holistic 
fertility, pregnancy, labor and postpartum support through
acupuncture, herbal prescriptions and other modalities.
Name: Stephen F. Cohen, MS, L.Ac
Address: 1133 BROADWAY SUITE 1107
NEW YORK, NY 10010
Phone: 917.499.6388
Email: stephen@axiomacupuncture.com
Web site: www.axiomacupuncture.com
Ayla Acupuncture & Chinese Herbs
I offer gentle and comprehensive women’s health care
throughout the life cycle from fertility and pregnancy 
support to stress reduction, labor preparation and 
postpartum care. Modalities include acupuncture, herbs,
Chinese massage and nutritional counseling.
Address: 12 W. 27TH STREET NINTH FLOOR
NEW YORK, NY 10001
Phone: 917.331.2694
Email: ayla@aylayavin.com
Web site: www.aylayavin.com
Melani Bolyai, L.Ac, CD(DONA)
As an acupuncturist, herbalist and childbirth doula I 
specialize in women’s healthcare. From conception to 
pregnancy, delivery and postpartum recovery, my practice
provides a nurturing space to safely and naturally support
your journey to motherhood.
Address: 80 E. 11TH STREET SUITE 407
NEW YORK, NY 10003
Phone: 917.533.2097
Email: melani@naturalqi.com
Web site: www.naturalqi.com
Suzanne Connole, L.Ac
I use acupuncture and Chinese herbs to assist women
through all stages of life: menstrual irregularities, infertility,
pregnancy, postpartum and menopause. I focus on using
Chinese medicine to support pregnancy and promote 
natural delivery.
Address: 250 5TH AVENUE SUITE 507
NEW YORK, NY 10001
Phone: 917.620.2790
Email: suzconnole@verizon.net
provider listings
28.29the NEW YORK GUIDE to a HEALTHY BIRTH
Patricia Cassidy Acupuncture, PC
I work with acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine to 
promote long-term health for women (and their families!).
Nurturing healthy pregnancies and efficient natural births.
Providing pain relief and addressing postpartum and other 
gynecological concerns.
Phone: 917.202.7418
Email: pcassidy43@hotmail.com
Meg Richichi, MS, L..Ac
I blend Eastern and Western modalities by applying 
knowledge of acupuncture, nutrition, herbology and 
mainstream medicine as they relate to health. I’m founder
of Mother’s Path, a unique approach to enhancing female
and male fertility.
Name: Meg Richichi
Address: 1123 BROADWAY SUITE 319
NEW YORK, NY 10010
Phone: 212.358.0113
Email: megqi@hotmail.com
Web site: www.megrichichi.com
Sage Wellness
Sage Wellness is a patient-focused women’s health practice
in New York City. We support women in all stages of their
health including fertility, menstrual disorders, general
well-being, anxiety, stress, pregnancy and postpartum care.
Name: Deborah Valentin, L.Ac
Address: 80 E. 11TH STREET SUITE 407
NEW YORK, NY 10003
Phone: 917.763.8560
Email: deb@sage-wellness.com
Web site: www.sage-wellness.com
Acupuncture (cont’d)
Mia Hatgis, L.Ac
I use acupuncture, Chinese herbs, aromatherapy and 
imagery to help empower women in preparation for 
conception, during the course of their pregnancies, during
labor itself and as a way to ease into postpartum life.
Address: 73 SPRING STREET SUITE 201
NEW YORK, NY 10012
Phone: 917.428.6909
Fax: 212.966.0626
Email: acumamamia@yahoo.com
Jean Chuang Menges, L.Ac, PC
Holistic practice offering in-office and remote healing
services in acupuncture, energetic medicine, community
healing, intuitive coaching, and nutritional support. Our
products and services focus on heart-centered treatment
and care for Whole Woman and Child.
Phone: 212.327.0898
Email: jean@jeanmenges.com
Web site: www.nycforhealing.org
Moonflower Acupuncture
I offer acupuncture, herbal medicine, shiatsu, reiki and
doula services to help support clients in their journey
through pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum times.
Name: Michelle LaDue, L.Ac, Doula
Address: 455 W. 23RD STREET SUITE 1E
NEW YORK, NY 10011
Phone: 718.415.1583
Email: moonflower7@earthlink.net
Web site: www.moonfloweracupuncture.com
Park Slope Acupuncture & Chinese Herbs
A women’s health-focused acupuncture and Chinese herbs
practice, skilled in prenatal and postpartum care. Chinese
medicine supports a healthy pregnancy, natural birth and
better long-term health for mother and baby. We treat 
children too!
Name: Sarah E. Rivkin, MS, L.Ac, Dipl. OM
Address: 488 CARROLL STREET FIRST FLOOR
BROOKLYN, NY 11215
Phone: 718.309.0432
Email: info@slopeacupuncture.com
Web site: www.slopeacupuncture.com
provider listings
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30.31the NEW YORK GUIDE to a HEALTHY BIRTH
Birth Center
Brooklyn Birthing Center
The BBC has individual bedrooms, a bath with large tub 
and a kitchen to provide the home-like setting integral to
its mission: to provide families with the kind of birth 
experience they most wish to have.
Address: 2183 OCEAN AVENUE
BROOKLYN, NY 11229
Phone: 718.376.6655
Email: brooklynbirthingcenter@yahoo.com
Web site: www.brooklynbirthingcenter.com
Gouverneur-Bellevue Midwifery Practice
Care at Gouverneur Healthcare Services and Bellevue 
Hospital. Birth at Bellevue in the Birth Center or Labor &
Delivery depending on normalcy of pregnancy. Insurances:
PCAP, Medicaid, MetroPlus, Healthfirst, GHI, HIP, and
other insurance plans.
Name: Richard Jennings, CNM, MS 
Director of Midwifery, Bellevue Birth Center 
and Gouverneur Healthcare Services
Address: 227 MADISON STREET
NEW YORK, NY 10002
Phone: 212.238.7888
Email: richard.jennings@nychhc.org
Web site: www.nyc.gov/html/hhc/html/services/labor-delivery.shtml
Morris Heights Women’s Health & Birthing Pavilion
Serving women from adolescence through the childbearing
years, menopause and beyond. Family-centered free-standing
birthing center with caring, experienced multilingual midwives.
Name: Susan Billinghurst-Hamlet, MPH, PA-C
Address: 70 W. BURNSIDE AVENUE
BRONX, NY 10453
Phone: 718.716.2229
Fax: 718.716.9201
Email: susanb@mhhc.org
Web site: www.mhhc.org
bodywork: 
Abdominal Massage
Body Beloved
Certified MAM fertility specialist, Karen’s holistic 
reproductive health practice takes women from conception
through pregnancy and postpartum. Sessions include 
massage, counseling, self-care, and her experience as a 
birth doula and childbirth educator.
Name: Karen Kelly, LMT
Address: 290A 14TH STREET
BROOKLYN, NY 11215
Phone: 845.641.0563
Email: doulawise@yahoo.com
Web site: www.mayauterinemassage.com
Massage & Healing Touch
The techniques of Maya Abdominal Massage address 
position and health of the pelvic and abdominal organs.
This external therapy can alleviate many common 
gynecological complaints such as: painful periods, 
endometriosis, bladder infections and infertility.
Name: Karen Weston, LMT
Address: 270 1ST AVENUE
NEW YORK, NY 10009
Phone: 212.388.1923
Email: westonkaren@aol.comWeb site: www.massageandhealingtouch.com
Pamela Morrison Physical Therapy, PC
Advanced trained manual therapists treat infertility issues,
IBS, optimize digestive and reproductive organ function, 
resolve endometriosis scar adhesions, pelvic and low back
pain. Abdominal massage, craniosacral therapy, holistic 
integrative manual therapy approach to wellness.
Name: Dr. Pamela Morrison, MS, PT, DPT, BCIA-PMDB, IMTC
Address: 140 WEST END AVENUE SUITE 1K
NEW YORK, NY 10023
Phone: 212.362.3022
Web site: www.pamelamorrisonpt.com
provider listings
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32.33the NEW YORK GUIDE to a HEALTHY BIRTH
Jane Gatanis, MS, OTR/L
Craniosacral Therapist with 25 years of medical experience.
Gentle techniques help newborn and mother achieve 
optimal recovery and health. Relief from birth trauma,
feeding problems, colic, tortocolis and developmental 
issues. Out of network coverage.
Address: 145 4TH AVENUE SUITE 14E
NEW YORK, NY 10003
Phone: 212.674.6610
Email: jgatanis@earthlink.net
Web site: www.integrativerehab.com
True North Wellness
Biodynamic craniosacral therapy and polarity therapy are
available for babies, children and adults. Address stress-
related conditions, digestive issues, sleep, structural balance
and movement. Resolve birth related trauma. Recover from 
injuries. Balance overall energy dynamics.
Address: 61 TOMPKINS PLACE
BROOKLYN, NY 11231
Phone: 718.643.6064
Web site: www.truenorthwellness.com
bodywork: 
Massage Therapy
Breathing Room
Robin’s healing hands offer deep, specific, relaxing 
prenatal massage to alleviate pregnancy discomforts and 
to enhance an expecting mother’s sense of well-being. 
Postpartum massage offers essential relief from physical 
and emotional stress.
Name: Robin Gillies, LMT
Phone: 917.617.1153
Email: robin@breathingroomnyc.com
Web site: www.breathingroomnyc.com
Chelsea/Carroll Gardens Therapeutic Bodywork
Certified to support women through all stages of pregnancy,
Reid uses massage, myofascial and craniosacral techniques
to relax muscles, increase circulation and maintain balance
as women’s bodies change. He also teaches body mechanics
and massage. Newborns welcome. Additional location 
Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn.
Name: Reid Bruggemann, LMT, RYT
Address: 112 W. 27TH STREET
NEW YORK, NY 10001
Phone: 917.488.2471
Email: reid525@gmail.com
bodywork: 
Abdominal Massage (cont’d)
Renew Physical Therapy, PC
Maya Abdominal Massage with visceral mobilization to 
help re-align your uterus and bladder in the prenatal and
postpartum period. Break up scar adhesions, relieve 
pain, lymph and energy blockages. Restore your 
pre-pregnancy shape.
Name: Isa Herrera, MSPT, CSCS
Address: 149 MADISON AVENUE SUITE 903
NEW YORK, NY 10016
Phone: 1.877.RenewPT
Email: info@renew-pt.com
Web site: www.renew-pt.com
bodywork: 
Craniosacral Therapy
Celebration of Life
Prenatal Craniosacral Therapy provides comfort, alignment 
of the spine and pelvis, helps to turn breech babies to 
the vertex position, relaxes and relieves stress and strain
patterns throughout the mind and body.
Name: Deborah Badran, RCST ®, CD(DONA), RM
Phone: 212.753.8160
Email: debbadran@aol.com
Karen Erickson, DC
I specialize in gentle chiropractic and craniosacral therapy 
for infants and children as well as pregnant and postpartum
women. Emphasis is put on home care to extend the 
benefit of sessions.
Address: 127 W. 79TH STREET SUITE 4
NEW YORK, NY 10024
Phone: 212.721.0177
Fax: 212.579.6236
Email: drkarenerickson@msn.com
provider listings
34.35the NEW YORK GUIDE to a HEALTHY BIRTH
Element Natural Healing Arts
Specialized pre- and postnatal massage individually 
tailored for specific health concerns before, during and
after pregnancy. We collaborate with other healthcare 
professionals to provide an integrated approach for 
overall health and wellness.
Address: 518 HENRY STREET
BROOKLYN, NY 11231
Phone: 718.855.4850
Email: info@elementhealing.com
Web site: www.elementhealing.com
Barbara Federspiel, LMT
Located in a full service perinatal office, Barbara specializes
in prenatal and postpartum massage with a whole body 
approach tailored to each family’s unique birth experience.
Address: 455 W. 23RD STREET APT. 1E
NEW YORK, NY 10011
Phone: 212.330.7750
917.822.5107
Email: babaf99@hotmail.com
bodywork: 
Massage Therapy (cont’d)
Elise Constantine, Prenatal and Postnatal 
Massage Therapist
Licensed Massage Therapist specializing in prenatal and
postnatal massage since 1999. Sessions take place in a
peaceful Union Square office. Home visits also available.
See website for prenatal yoga class schedule.
Address: 80 5TH AVENUE SUITE 906
NEW YORK, NY 10011
Phone: 917.769.4926
Email: elise@yogamassagenyc.com
Web site: www.yogamassagenyc.com
Dharma Healing Arts Studio
Licensed massage therapists certified in prenatal and 
postnatal massage, a holistic and natural way to experience
relief and repose during the fertility/conception stages, 
second and third trimesters of pregnancy and after.
Address: 331 COURT ST
BROOKLYN, NY 11231
Phone: 718.237.3139
Web site: www.dharmanyc.com
Pamela Dryden, LMT, MLD
An excellent support during pregnancy is a full body 
manual lymph drainage massage to decongest, detoxify, 
reduce swelling and create relaxation. Certified from 
the Dr.Vodder school with 15 years’ experience.
Address: 346 E. 51ST STREET APT. 3R
NEW YORK, NY 10022
Phone: 212.688.3746
Email: pamelaink@cs.com
EarthySoul
Providing professional and specialized pre- and postnatal
massage therapy in your home or at my office. Specialized
cushioning system enables you to receive your massage 
on your belly! Birth and postpartum doula services available.
Name: Eileen Togher, LMT
Address: 80 E. 11TH STREET
NEW YORK, NY 10003
Phone: 718.249.6080
Email: eileen.togher@gmail.com
Web site: www.earthysoul.com
provider listings
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The Mothers’ Room
Certified in prenatal and postpartum massage, 
Laura brings 22 years’ experience and training with 
prenatal/postpartum mothers to the table. Massage 
is performed with the Body Support Cushion so the 
mother can lie face down comfortably.
Name: Laura Favin, LCSW, LMT
Address: 220 W. 71ST STREET SUITE 2
NEW YORK, NY 10023
Phone: 917.209.6534
Email: themothersroom@aol.com
Pamela Morrison Physical Therapy, PC
Advanced trained manual therapists provide expert care 
in prenatal and postpartum therapeutic massage. Relax 
sore muscles, improve circulation, reduce swelling. Body 
mechanics, supportive garments. Correct pelvic alignment
prior to delivery to enhance ease of labor/delivery.
Name: Dr. Pamela Morrison, MS, PT, DPT, BCIA-PMDB, IMTC
Address: 140 WEST END AVENUE SUITE 1K
NEW YORK, NY 10023
Phone: 212.362.3022
Web site: www.pamelamorrisonpt.com
Park Slope Doulas & Massage Therapy
Massage therapy benefits many of the common discomforts 
associated with pregnancy. Prenatal and postpartum 
massage are gentle techniques which relax tired muscles,
improve circulation and reduce anxiety. Please check 
our website for more details.
Name: Stana Weisburd, LMT
Address: SERVING BROOKLYN & MANHATTAN SINCE 1999.
BROOKLYN, NY 11215
Phone: 917.575.1227
Email: stanadoula@yahoo.com
Web site: www.parkslopedoulas.com
bodywork: 
Massage Therapy (cont’d)
Sandra Jamrog
Bodywork sessions based on the work of Bonnie Bainbridge
Cohen (Body Mind Centering) and Integrative Acupressure
for adults and infants.
Phone: 212.866.8257
Email: sandrajamrog@me.com
Massage & Healing Touch
Karen has been providing pregnancy massage to NYC
clients for over eight years. She brings a compassionate 
and healing touch to her pregnant clients, specializing in 
prenatal, labor support instruction, postpartum and 
massage for newborns.
Name: Karen Weston, LMT
Address: 270 1ST AVENUE
NEW YORK, NY 10009
Phone: 212.388.1923
Email: westonkaren@aol.com
Web site: www.massageandhealingtouch.com
Maternal Massage and More
Specializing in prenatal, labor support, postpartum and
babymassage. You will be able to lay comfortably and safely
on your belly throughout your pregnancy. We will cater all
treatments to your specific needs.
Name: Janet V. Markovits, LMT
Address: 73 SPRING STREET
NEW YORK, NY 10012
Phone: 212.533.3188
Email: janet@maternalmassageandmore.com
Web site: www.maternalmassageandmore.com
Mind Your Body Massage
Blending therapeutic massage with Polarity energy work, 
my sessions seek to not only ease the aches and pains of
pregnancy but to support a relaxed and flowing energy system.
Prenatal and postpartum. Infant Massage instruction.
Name: Niseema Dyan Diemer, LMT, APP
Address: 37 1ST AVENUE SUITE 5
NEW YORK, NY 10003
Phone: 917.626.3799
Email: niseema@mindyourbodymassage.com
Web site: www.mindyourbodymassage.com
provider listings
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Subtle Harmony Physical Therapy
Osteopathic manual approach: cranial-sacral, visceral 
mobilizations, myofascial release. Private, one-on-one 
and gentle treatments for infants, children and women 
(pregnancy-related issues, postpartum difficulties, 
pelvic floor dysfunctions, low back pain, scar adhesions,
headaches, reflux).
Name: Anne Marie Almirol, DPT
Address: 10 PLAZA STREET SUITE 1C
BROOKLYN, NY 11238
Phone: 347.423.3625
Email: almirol@verizon.net
Lara Kohn Thompson
Physical care and training for postpartum and beyond. 
Offering individualized care addressing issues such as pelvic
floor retraining, sacroiliac instability, core strengthening.
Using imagery, breath and postural work to access specific
muscle groups and incorporating this specific work into a 
holistic awareness of the body.
Phone: 917.750.6080
Web site: www.essentialyogabrooklyn.com
bodywork: 
Reflexology
Angelique Clarke
Specializing in maternity reflexology, I am nationally 
certified and a labor doula. I work with mothers before,
during and after pregnancy. Offering house calls, I 
incorporate imagery into our sessions, providing relief, 
relaxation and more.
Address: 316 E. 19TH STREET SUITE 1R
NEW YORK, NY 10003
Phone: 646.805.8474
Email: angie@angiedoesfeet.com
Web site: www.angiedoesfeet.com
EarthySoul
ARCB Board Certified Reflexologist. Reflexology can 
help relieve many pregnancy related symptoms and help
with postpartum recovery. Birth and postpartum doula
services available.
Name: Eileen Togher, LMT
Address: 80 E. 11TH STREET
NEW YORK, NY 10003
Phone: 718.249.6080
Email: eileen.togher@gmail.com
Web site: www.earthysoul.com
bodywork: 
Physical Therapy
Comprehensive Movement Therapy
Licensed physical therapist with specialized perinatal 
training for all trimesters, postpartum and bedrest. Created
Comprehensive Movement Therapy synthesizing 30 years
experience in yoga, tai chi ch’uan, and body therapies with
cutting-edge physical therapy approaches.
Name: Julie Sandler-Friedman, PT, MS
Address: 27 W. 96TH STREET 
NEW YORK, NY 10025
Phone: 212.864.2634
Fax: 212.989.2334
Email: sandlerfriedman@yahoo.com
Web site: www.comprehensivemovementtherapy.com
Pamela Morrison Physical Therapy, PC
Expert manual therapists provide holistic care for women’s
health issues: prenatal, postpartum, labor prep exercises,
pelvic floor rehab, incontinence, painful intercourse, scar
pain, sciatica, carpal tunnel, diastasis recti, breast pain.
Biofeedback, pain modalities, caring hands.
Name: Dr. Pamela Morrison, MS, PT, DPT, BCIA-PMDB, IMTC
Address: 140 WEST END AVENUE SUITE 1K
NEW YORK, NY 10023
Phone: 212.362.3022
Web site: www.pamelamorrisonpt.com
Renew Physical Therapy, PC
Comprehensive pain relief for conditions relating to 
pregnancy and postpartum recovery. We teach you to heal
yourself and involve your partner. Relief for sciatica, 
pubic symphysis, scar and sexual pain, prolapse, incontinence
and more. Additional location Park Slope, Brooklyn.
Name: Isa Herrera, MSPT, CSCS
Address: 149 MADISON AVENUE SUITE 903
NEW YORK, NY 10016
Phone: 1.877.RenewPT
Email: info@renew-pt.com
Web site: www.renew-pt.com
provider listings
40.41the NEW YORK GUIDE to a HEALTHY BIRTH
bodywork: 
Reiki 
Be Reiki
Reiki energy supports our natural ability in every phase of 
life to receive gentle healing vibration. Marcia offers both
Reiki trainings and individual healing sessions. Fees are on 
a sliding scale.
Name: Marcia S. Bernstein
Phone: 718.764.4005
Email: bereiki@marciabernstein.com
Web site: www.marciabernstein.com
EarthySoul
Reiki focuses on the human energy system as a whole: 
physical, mental, emotional and spiritual, bringing about
harmony and balance from within. House calls, in-office
and distant healing offered. Birth and postpartum doula
services available.
Name: Eileen Togher, LMT
Address: 80 E. 11TH STREET
NEW YORK, NY 10003
Phone: 718.249.6080
Email: eileen.togher@gmail.com
Web site: www.earthysoul.com
Breastfeeding Support
92nd Street Y
Meet with other moms, babies and a lactation specialist 
to discuss topics including the emotional ups and downs 
of breastfeeding, what happens when your milk supply 
is weak and how to juggle breastfeeding and work. Meets 
every Thursday at 12:30pm.
Address: 1395 LEXINGTON AVENUE
NEW YORK, NY 10028
Phone: 212.415.5611
Web site: www.92Y.org
Baby In The Family, LLC
I offer prenatal newborn care, breastfeeding workshops 
and breastfeeding support circles around the city. A holistic
approach to breastfeeding and nurturing your baby that is
designed to meet your family’s needs. 20 years experience.
Name: Andrea Syms-Brown, IBCLC, RLC, CIMI
Phone: 917.864.7457
Email: info@babyinthefamily.com
Web site: www.babyinthefamily.com
bodywork: 
Reflexology (cont’d)
Element Natural Healing Arts
Specialized maternity reflexology to support and balance
the body, focusing on specific health concerns before, 
during and after pregnancy. We collaborate with other
healthcare professionals to provide an integrated approach
for overall health and wellness.
Address: 518 HENRY STREET
BROOKLYN, NY 11231
Phone: 718.855.4850
Email: info@elementhealing.com
Web site: www.elementhealing.com
Embrace Your Birth
Reflexology during pregnancy can alleviate many discomforts
such as back pain, swelling, headaches and more. It can
help you sleep better, balance all your systems and is very
relaxing. Reflexology naturally induces and augments labor.
Name: Noga Kreiman-Miller
Address: 650 UNION STREET
BROOKLYN, NY 11215
Phone: 917.770.5204
Email: noga_kr@earthlink.net
Web site: www.embraceyourbirthny.com
provider listings
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Realbirth
Breastfeeding Clinics supervised by Lactation Consultants
are an excellent way to get hands-on help with breastfeeding
and all your questions answered. Get cost effective 
professional advice and support while meeting other 
moms for peer support.
Name: Erica Lyon
Address: 715 9TH AVENUE
NEW YORK, NY 10010
Phone: 212.367.9006
Email: info@realbirth.com
Web site: www.realbirth.com
Kate Sharp
I am an International Board Certified Lactation 
Consultant (since 1988) and provide home visits and 
phone help. Breastfeeding classes and support groups 
are also available.
Phone: 212.595.1627
Email: katealma@earthlink.net
Web site: www.katesharpibclc.com
Breastfeeding Support(cont’d)
Carole Kivett Blane, IBCLC
I am a board certified Lactation Consultant and have been
helping women with breastfeeding and parenting issues 
for 16 years. I do home visits and have offices in Hoboken
and the Upper West Side.
Address: 223 BLOOMFIELD AVENUE SUITE 114
HOBOKEN, NJ 07030
Phone: 917.407.1166
Email: carblane@aol.com
Web site: www.breastfeedingnj.com
Clearbirth
Comprehensive birth, postpartum and breastfeeding 
support by certified lactation counselors and DONA-
certified doulas. Workshops on babywearing, newborn care
and infant potty practice. Homebirth insurance specialist
and medical billing services.
Name: Ina Bransome, Annette Perel and Haya Brant
Phone: 646.708.5427
347.262.6321
Email: ina@clearbirth.comWeb site: www.clearbirth.com
Ayelet Kaznelson, CLC, IBCLC
Ayelet Kaznelson is an International Board Certified 
Lactation Consultant providing home consultations 
in Manhattan. She also runs a weekly postpartum 
breastfeeding clinic and teaches prenatal breastfeeding 
and newborn care classes at Realbirth.
Phone: 917.620.4068 (cell)
212.252.8400 (vm)
Email: ayelet@ayeletkaznelson.com
Web site: www.ayeletkaznelson.com
Leigh Anne O’Connor, IBCLC
Leigh Anne offers a personalized approach to assist 
families in meeting their breastfeeding goals and to 
work through specific challenges. Home visits, classes 
and support groups in NYC.
Address: 10 STUYVESANT OVAL SUITE 5B
NEW YORK, NY 10009
Phone: 917.596.3646
212.529.4691
Email: leighanne625@rcn.com
Web site: www.leighanneoconnor.com
provider listings
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Birthing With Hypnosis
An evidenced based childbirth education program teaching
gentle birthing techniques and self-hypnosis. Hypno-
birthing reduces fear and anxiety about labor and birthing
helping you to have the birth experience of your choice.
Many insurance plans accepted.
Name: Angela Monti Fox, LCSW
Address: 156 5TH AVENUE SUITE 1208 #4
NEW YORK, NY 10011
Phone: 646.519.1076
Fax: 212.362.5762
Email: hypnobirthingnyc@aol.com
Web site: www.birthingwithhypnosis.com
Birthright Doula and Childbirth Education
Offering birth doula services and Lamaze childbirth 
education designed to assist you in discovering the tools,
strategies and comfort measures that will support and guide
you through labor, birth and the early postpartum months.
Name: Gabriela Ammann, CD(DONA), LCCE
Address: 211 E. 3RD STREET APT. 1
BROOKLYN, NY 11218
Phone: 917.544.0656
Email: gabriela@birthright-doula.com
Web site: www.birthright-doula.com
Body Beloved
There’s more to your pregnancy than pushing out the baby!
With Birthing From Within, experience birth as a rite of 
passage, learn pain-coping skills, hypnosis, labor stages,
breastfeeding and latest research. Private and small groups.
Name: Karen Kelly, LMT
Address: 290A 14TH STREET
BROOKLYN, NY 11215
Phone: 845.641.0563
Email: doulawise@yahoo.com
Web site: www.mayauterinemassage.com
Bronx-Lebanon Family Health Centers
Our childbirth classes are offered free of charge. We 
emphasize breastfeeding, options for natural birthing and
family-centered healthcare. Women attending are offered
doula services free of charge.
Name: Scott Hartman, MD
Address: 1276 FULTON AVENUE
BRONX, NY 10019
Phone: 347.585.1819
718.901.6275
Fax: 718.901.8589
Email: shartman@bronxleb.org
Childbirth Education
92nd Street Y
Learn to recognize the signs and stages of labor, the 
benefits and risks of different birth technologies, 
pharmacological pain-coping options, the essentials 
of labor support and a broad range of pain-coping 
techniques.
Address: 1395 LEXINGTON AVENUE
NEW YORK, NY 10028
Phone: 212.415.5611
Web site: www.92Y.org
A BabyMoon Doulas
Private and group Lamaze classes designed to help you 
understand the birthing process and make informed
choices so you can birth with joy and confidence. 
We also offer doula support for birth and postpartum.
Name: Britt Sady
Address: 279 W. 117TH STREET APT. 5N
NEW YORK, NY 10026
Phone: 646.489.8837
Email: info@babymoondoulas.com
Web site: www.babymoondoulas.com
Bella Birth and Baby
Bella Birth and Baby offers a variety of group and private
classes covering pregnancy, birth and the postpartum period.
Additional services include labor and postpartum support.
Address: 329 E. 82ND STREET
NEW YORK, NY 10028
Phone: 646.942.4473
Email: info@bellabirthandbaby.com
Web site: www.bellabirthandbaby.com
Birth Day Presence
Our studio in Park Slope, Brooklyn, offers a full schedule
of classes/workshops for all pregnancy and new parent
needs. We also offer private childbirth preparation classes,
birth and postpartum doulas and birth photography
throughout NYC.
Address: 291 8TH STREET
BROOKLYN, NY 11215
Phone: 917.751.6579
Email: doulas@birthdaypresence.net
Web site: www.birthdaypresence.net
provider listings
46.47the NEW YORK GUIDE to a HEALTHY BIRTH
Embrace Your Birth
The journey to Ideal Birth travels through conscious 
exploration of beliefs, thoughts and fears. Holistic 
childbirth preparation provides release and resolution 
of mental-emotional blocks creating the clarity to birth 
and parent with confidence and joy.
Name: Noga Kreiman-Miller
Address: 650 UNION STREET
BROOKLYN, NY 11215
Phone: 917.770.5204
Email: noga_kr@earthlink.net
Web site: www.embraceyourbirthny.com
Fig Tree Childbirth Services
Small group and private childbirth classes in Brooklyn. 
8 hour weekend intensives. Lots of discussion. Lots 
of useful information. And a positive spin on the birth 
experience! Sarah also offers labor and postpartum 
doula services.
Name: Sarah Moore, MA, CD(DONA), CCE
Phone: 347.262.0798
Email: sarahmoore44@yahoo.com
Web site: www.figtreechildbirth.com
Shara Frederick
Comprehensive childbirth preparation classes in 
Williamsburg and private classes available. Classes aim 
to increase parent’s confidence by providing evidence 
based information and practical support for your 
transition to parenthood.
Phone: 718.637.1170
Email: shara@mindspring.com
Web site: www.sharafrederick.com
Childbirth Education (cont’d)
Beth Donnelly Caban 
Beth teaches comprehensive childbirth education. She 
is a certified Active Birth Teacher, labor doula and yoga
teacher who specializes in pre- and postnatal yoga.
Phone: 718.753.6164
Web site: www.essentialyogabrooklyn.com
Choiceful Birth and Parenting
Private childbirth education sessions tailored to individual
needs covering the birth process, birth planning, labor 
support techniques, relaxation and unexpected situations. 
Individual and group counseling focusing on pregnancy, 
postpartum and parenting issues is also available.
Name: Ellen Krug, MSW, LCSW, CCE
Address: 297 6TH AVENUE
BROOKLYN, NY 11215
Phone: 718.768.0494
Email: ellen@choicefulbirth.com
Web site: www.choicefulbirth.com
Dad/Day
I teach the only comprehensive seminar for new and 
expecting fathers in the metropolitan area. Fathers 
impact on emotional, physical, social and intellectual 
development of their children. (3 hr. class).
Name: Charles F. Ehrhardt
Address: 60 W. 10TH STREET
NEW YORK, NY 10011
Phone: 212.677.7149
Fax: 212.674.8628
Email: cfehrhardt@verizon.net
Web site: www.dadday.net
Ellen Chuse Childbirth
Providing group classes in Brooklyn covering labor, 
birth, breastfeeding and newborn care. Small classes with
individual attention. Refresher and private classes available
in Manhattan and Brooklyn. Please visit my website for
more information.
Name: Ellen Chuse
Address: 411 DEAN STREET
BROOKLYN, NY 11217
Phone: 718.789.1981
Email: info@ellenchusechildbirth.com
Web site: www.ellenchusechildbirth.com
provider listings
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Mindful Birth
An expansive approach to Bradley Childbirth preparation.
Hands-on pain-coping, relaxation, labor support 
techniques, as well as birth options, breastfeeding and 
more in an open, nonjudgmental atmosphere. 
Group and private classes downtown and uptown.
Name: Mary Esther Malloy-Hopwood, MA, CCE, CD(DONA), CLC
Phone: 347.276.2819
Email: info@mindfulbirthny.com
Web site: www.mindfulbirthny.com
Prenatal Yoga Center
In addition to yoga, PYC offers childbirth education, 
breastfeeding, infant CPR, infant massage, support 
groups and newborn care classes. PYC has a robust online
community with NYC Resources, a Nanny Exchange 
and a library.
Name: Debra Flashenberg
Address: 251 W. 72ND STREET SUITE 2F
NEW YORK, NY 10023
Phone: 212.362.2985
Email: info@prenatalyogacenter.com
Web site: www.prenatalyogacenter.com
Realbirth
Comprehensive childbirth education classes that prepare
the woman and her partner for all aspects of pregnancy,
labor, birth andpostpartum. Experienced, knowledgeable
and professional educators guide couples through many
choices for coping and parental transition.
Name: Erica Lyon
Address: 715 9TH AVENUE
NEW YORK, NY 10010
Phone: 212.367.9006
Email: info@realbirth.com
Web site: www.realbirth.com
ShaktiTots
Birthing From Within based childbirth education classes. 
A creative, nurturing and personal way of preparing for
birth and parenting.
Name: Trish Fox
Phone: 917.843.4988
Email: shakti@shaktitots.com
Web site: www.shaktitots.com
Childbirth Education (cont’d)
Suzanne Fremon
Hypnobirthing is comprised of techniques of deep 
relaxation and visualization that, with a few months of 
practice, contribute to comfortable, unmedicated, 
pain-free births. Private or group sessions on the Upper
West Side of Manhattan.
Address: 601 W. 115TH STREET APT. 62
NEW YORK, NY 10025
Phone: 212.749.0800
518.532.0305
Email: hypnodoula@gmail.com
GracefulFusion
I offer professional labor support and postpartum doula 
services, lactation counseling services, and childbirth 
education classes (group/private.) Additionally, I offer
birth photography. I work in homes, hospitals, and 
birth center settings.
Name: Nicole Heidbreder
Phone: 917.528.1855
Email: nicole@gracefulfusion.com
Web site: www.gracefulfusion.com
Sandra Jamrog
Small group or private childbirth education classes. 
The emphasis is on understanding the process of labor 
and birth, labor support techniques, making informed
choices, breastfeeding and newborn care.
Phone: 212.866.8257
Email: sandrajamrog@me.com
A Labor of Love Childbirth Services
Private classes for healthy pregnancy/labor/birth/
postpartum including pain-coping strategies, use of 
technology/medications, breathing/relaxation, physiology
and gentle birth options to make informed choices. 
We also offer labor support and birth photography.
Catherine teaches group classes at Realbirth.
Name: Catherine Stewart-Lindley
Phone: 917.699.8790
Email: laborlovedoulas@aol.com
Web site: www.laborlove.org
provider listings
50.51the NEW YORK GUIDE to a HEALTHY BIRTH
Chiropractic Care
Alice Behr Chiropractic
Gentle, safe, effective spinal care before, during 
pregnancy and after birth for you and your baby. 
Extensive family practice.
Name: Alice S. Behr, DC
Address: 409 E. 14TH STREET SUITE E
NEW YORK, NY 10009
Phone: 212.533.6868
Fax: 212.533.6686
Email: abchiro@rcn.com
Web site: www.alicebehrchiropractic.com
Dr. Andrea Auerbach
Ensure a healthy pregnancy! A healthy nervous system 
and immune system, flexibility, pain reduction, hormonal
balancing, and spinal and pelvic alignment are all 
benefits of chiropractic care. We offer the Webster 
breech turning technique.
Address: 196 6TH AVENUE
BROOKLYN, NY 11217
Phone: 718.399.1111
Fax: 718.399.0182
Email: dc@andreaauerbach.com
Awakening Heart Network
Improve physical symptoms, mental/emotional state 
and overall wellness with Network Spinal Analysis(NSA): 
a low-force technique that really works! Accepting 
pre/postnatal and pediatric clients. Some insurance. 
Free workshops. Webster Technique. Top level 
certified doctor.
Name: Dr. Josette M. Addarich, DC
Address: 415 COURT STREET
CARROLL GARDENS
BROOKLYN, NY 11231
Phone: 718.243.2257 (Brooklyn Office)
845.338.3888 (Upstate Office)
Web site: www.nsa.vpweb.com
Childbirth Education (cont’d)
Stork Store
Providing small intimate groups and private class. 
Classes include labor, birth, breastfeeding, newborn care
and child safety.
Name: Stephanie Watson-Campbell
Phone: 718.360.1732
347.436.8454
Email: stephanie@storkstorenyc.com
Web site: www.storkstorenyc.com
With Woman NYC
With Woman NYC offers comprehensive childbirth 
education classes for parents planning homebirths. 
Group classes in Brooklyn. Private and semi-private 
classes throughout the NYC metro area.
Name: Natashia Fuksman, CCE, CD(DONA), PCD(DONA), 
DONA-Approved Birth Doula Trainer, 
Director: With Woman Doula Cooperativa
Phone: 917.617.2771
Email: withwomannyc@yahoo.com
Web site: www.withwomannyc.com
provider listings
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Dr. Bradley Grossman, DC, CCSP
Complete pregnancy, pre- and postpartum care 
integrating chiropractic, acupuncture, doula and massage
in one office. Optimize biomechanical and nervous system
function. Over 15 years of caring for the entire family.
Address: 455 W. 23RD STREET
NEW YORK, NY 10011
Phone: 212.691.6885
Email: bhgrossman@aol.com
Dr. Randi Jaffe
Specializing in the treatment of the pregnant patient, 
Dr. Jaffe offers gentle chiropractic care for the aches and 
pains of pregnancy. Certified in the Webster Technique for
breech presentation. Postnatal and pediatric care offered.
Address: 40 PARK AVENUE
NEW YORK, NY 10016
Phone: 917.882.1035
Email: drrandi@mindspring.com
Web site: www.drrandijaffe.com
Soulshine Family Wellness Center
Dr. Morris blends years of birth experience and highest 
level Network Spinal Analysis certification. Using light
force techniques and integration of breath and movement
we will guide you through pre/postnatal and pediatric care. 
Webster certified.
Name: Wendy E. Morris, DC
Address: 917 8TH AVENUE
BROOKLYN, NY 11215
Phone: 718.832.7390
Email: soulshinefwc@aol.com
Web site: www.soulshinewellness.com
Dr. Shary Wagreich, DICCP, ACRB certified
A combination of techniques are used to relax, realign and
strengthen your body before, during and after pregnancy.
Chiropractic pediatrics diplomate from the International
Chiropractic Association’s Council on Pediatrics including
certification in the Webster Technique.
Address: 37 E. 28TH STREET SUITE 806
NEW YORK, NY 10016
Phone: 212.679.9270
Fax: 212.679.3826
Web site: healingtouch.chiroweb.com
Chiropractic Care (cont’d)
Discover Chiropractic of SoHo
Specialized care for pregnant and postpartum women, 
newborns and children. Webster Technique Certified. 
Extensively trained in SOT, cranial and kineseology. 
Adjustments gently delivered with genuine care for and 
attention to well being as a whole.
Name: Dr. Beth Forgosh
Address: 177 PRINCE STREET FOURTH FLOOR
NEW YORK, NY 10012
Phone: 212.598.5995
Email: beth@dcofsoho.com
Web site: www.dcofsoho.com
Karen Erickson, DC
I specialize in gentle chiropractic and craniosacral 
therapy for infants and children as well as pregnant and
postpartum women and other adults. Emphasis is put 
on home care to extend the benefit of sessions.
Address: 127 W. 79TH STREET SUITE 4
NEW YORK, NY 10024
Phone: 212.721.0177
Fax: 212.579.6236
Email: drkarenerickson@msn.com
Flourish NYC
We welcome pregnant women and families for gentle 
chiropractic care. We specialize in serving women from 
before conception, through pregnancy, birth and 
postpartum.We offer unique care for infants and children.
Webster certified.
Name: Amy J. Burke, DC
Address: 19 E. 71ST STREET SUITE 5A
NEW YORK, NY 10021
Phone: 212.861.2015
Email: amy@flourishnyc.com
Web site: www.flourishnyc.com
Dr. Nancy Gahles
Dr. Gahles offers a gentle, nurturing approach to spinal 
alignment and cranial sacral therapy. Lifestyle counseling
for pre- and postpartum moms and families including 
advice on nutrition, yoga, meditation, homeopathy, 
exercise and relaxation.
Phone: 646.420.9400
Email: askdrnancy@aol.com
provider listings
54.55the NEW YORK GUIDE to a HEALTHY BIRTH
doula: 
Labor Support
Camille Abbe
Providing continuous emotional, physical and 
informational support to each mother throughout her
labor and birth — at home, in hospital or in a birthing 
center. Professionally (DONA) trained. Sliding scale fee.
Phone: 917.373.6615
Email: camilleabbe@gmail.com
A BabyMoon Doulas
We offer physical, emotional and informational support 
before, during and after your birth. Our only loyalty 
is your comfort, confidence and clarity. We also offer 
postpartum care and Lamaze Childbirth Education.
Name: Britt Sady
Address: 279 W. 117TH STREET APT. 5N
NEW YORK, NY 10026
Phone: 646.489.8837