‘Whenever and however, you give birth, your experience will impact your emotions, your mind, your body, and your spirit for the rest of your life’
— INA MAY GASKIN
Often, when I am working with families, the grandparents are around. I’m always touched by the way they remember their own births, the way they were supported (or not) and how people made them feel.
Pregnancy is an incredibly transformative time, and it culminates not only in the birth of a baby, but also the ‘birth’ of you becoming a parent. I can help with these transitions, explore your options and talk things through, whether you are expecting your first baby or fifth! This helps you to gain confidence in your body and understand maternity practices, so that you can make informed decisions. Whatever type of birth you decide, I can be there for you.
Families choose a birth doula to help them have a positive experience during pregnancy and labour.
There is good evidence that this improves the birthing experience, not only for the birthing person and baby, but for the whole family. Doulas do not advise, but provide consistent support and evidence-based information around birthing practices. A doula will work alongside your team of midwives and doctors, and does not take a clinical role.
As a birth doula, I can provide nurturing continuous support during your pregnancy.
I will get to know you, and your family, and acknowledge your hopes and fears. During birth, I can accompany you through labour, being there to support you, helping your experience be as positive as it can, no matter how it may unfold. I will also be there in the early postnatal days to help you and your baby settle into the new rythmns of life - supporting feeding and offering the time and space to talk over your birth, and becoming a parent.
What to expect
As a birth doula I would meet with you at least twice antenatally, to get to know you better and help with any questions or concerns around your birth. I would also be available for phone, email and WhatsApp support, and encourage regular contact so we can build a good relationship.
From around 38 weeks into your pregnancy, I would go ‘on call’ and be available 24/7 until you feel you would like me to join you during labour. This could be at home before you transfer to a hospital or birth centre or simply at home. I will then endeavour to stay with you throughout labour, birth and early bonding. If you would like, I can help with your first feed.
During a postnatal visit, we can talk about your birth experience, or I can answer any questions you have around feeding or new born behaviour.