Inspired by her work as a postpartum doula, this poem by Shelley Kavanagh, captures the overwhelm and intensity of that birth and postpartum period - especially if a birth has not gone as planned and there has been birth trauma. It captures so well the huge lack of support and loneliness so many new parents experience after baby arrives. The invisibility of a new Mother/birthing person when the majority of society moves their focus to the baby and forgets about the parents, dismissing their experiences, once baby is healthy and well.

17 years ago I had my first baby and it changed my life. I had feared childbirth in early pregnancy, but thankfully found tools and supports to help me manage and actually enjoy my labour. While things did not go as planned I had a really positive experience and love sharing my story to help inspire others.

The vernix caseosa is a greasy, cheese-like coating that covers babies’ skin during their time in the womb. It may not look pretty but the vernix actually serves an important function.

A high BMI in pregnancy is associated with greater risk of a variety of pregnancy-related complications compared with women within a normal BMI. BMI is not always accurate, however we are referring to those with a high body fat relative to their height.

Many pregnant people hear stories of long labours. Especially in first time parents. Heading to the hospital to get checked, to be told they are “only” 1cm dilated. This blog will explain the many factors involved in early labour and how cervical dilation is only one part of the process. 

Firstly, remember that other labour experiences are not your experience. No two labours will ever be the same.