hmbirth.com Heather McCullough

09/12/2026

September 15th - this premiere in Chicago can clearly share how powerful women’s bodies are! Birth works, and it works even better when the providers are autonomous, fully prepared, and gatherers of lost knowledge.

Allowed to Birth provides Chicago land, an amazing opportunity for inspiration while also helping to move forward the very important work of increasing the number of midwives through educational support. I was able to be at the world premiere last week of this incredibly important documentary. I was even more honored to have been a small part of one of the births in the documentary. This is an incredible opportunity for inspiration. 

EXCITING NEWS! ICCPM is proud to collaborate with the Allowed to Birth team to bring this powerful documentary and conversation to Chicago!

Join us on September 15 from 6–9 p.m. at FACETS for a special screening of Allowed to Birth, followed by a talkback with filmmaker Jacinta Lagos and Kristine Lauria, CPM, who is featured in the documentary.

At a time when midwives are needed more than ever, recent changes to MEAC accreditation may reduce access to financial aid for student midwives. All proceeds remaining after event expenses will support a scholarship fund for student midwives of color.

We are thrilled to share this evening with our community. Come experience the film, meet the people behind it, join the conversation, and help us invest in the next generation of midwives.

Tickets:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/screening-allowed-to-birth-the-journey-of-a-global-midwife-chicago-tickets-1996355592317?aff=oddtdtcreator

Location, parking, and accessibility information:
https://facets.org/visit/

For additional questions, contact:
[email protected]
[email protected]

04/16/2026

Get goddess ready 🌀

➡️Understanding Labor Triggers: How Your Body and Environment Shape Birth

😊 the fascinating science behind labor, including how your matrilineal line influences your pregnancy length and how your baby signals readiness to be born by releasing proteins that trigger oxytocin production.

💕 why some people experience slower dilation in triage but rapid progress once they reach their birth space and feel supported—it’s not about medical interventions, but about creating the right conditions for your body to work effectively.

04/16/2026

Home Birth vs. Birth Center: What the 2024 Research Shows

👋🏼 I’m Heather, your home birth midwife in Chicagoland with over 25 years of experience. I discuss the groundbreaking 2024 study comparing home birth and birth center outcomes across 110,000+ births from all 50 states. We explore how home births show comparable or better outcomes than birth centers, with lower transfer rates, a 93.6% spontaneous vaginal birth rate (vs. 68% in hospitals), and only a 5.2% cesarean rate (vs. 32% in hospitals). I explain that 97% of babies born at home stay home, breastfeeding rates are exceptional at 97%, and that at least 70% of pregnancies qualify as low-risk for community birth. I also highlight the comprehensive, evidence-based care we provide, including prenatal screening, continuous labor support, resuscitation equipment, and postpartum home visits.

04/09/2026

🧠Brain energy for birth workers - 3am hits hard sometimes.

❓curious - what gets you through a long birth? Share your recipes & ideas

02/12/2026

What should you really ask before choosing your birth plan?

02/11/2026

Second time around and feeling like your first birth story didn't quite hit the mark? You're not alone—and guess what? You get to rewrite it with confidence this time.

Own your narrative: talk through your fears, celebrate your strengths, and set clear intentions for the birth YOU want. Your past doesn't define this experience—your choices do.

Ready to flip the script and share your new birth story? Drop a comment with the word "Rewrite" and let's start this empowering conversation!

02/11/2026

Most childbirth education feels like a cookie-cutter script. But here's the truth: real empowerment comes from evidence-based knowledge tailored to YOU.

When parents understand the science behind birth, they don't just show up—they show up confident, ready to make informed decisions that honor their values and body.

Take Spinning Babies®, for example. It's not just another technique—it's a game-changer that helps families navigate labor more comfortably and actively. These evidence-based tools aren't about fear or control; they're about giving you the power to choose your path.

Imagine walking into birth not as a passenger, but as the captain of your ship, equipped with clear, research-backed information and support that respects your unique path.

At HMBirth, we blend midwifery wisdom with the latest evidence to craft personalized childbirth education that truly empowers. It's your birth, your story, your way—with a little bit of spicy knowledge to back it up.

What's one thing you wish you'd known before your birth experience? Drop a comment with the word "Empowered" and let's start the conversation!

02/10/2026

Who's on your birth team—and why does it matter?

Your birth is as unique as you are. That's why personalized care from a dedicated team makes all the difference. When your support matches your values, fears, and hopes, the experience transforms from scary to empowering.

Ready to meet the people who'll have your back every step of the way?

02/10/2026

Creating a birth space that feels like your personal sanctuary isn't just about candles and soft music—it's about crafting an environment where you feel safe, powerful, and totally in charge.

Think: dimmed lights, your favorite scents, comfy pillows, and a playlist that moves you. Add in people who get your vibe (and know when to zip it). This is your birth party, your rules.

What's one thing you *must* have in your birth sanctuary? Drop your essentials below with the word "Sanctuary"—let's build the ultimate birth vibe together!

02/09/2026

Want a home birth that truly fits your style?