What would happen if you chose to listen to yourself, to your body, to your baby? Instead of handing over the whole health of yourself and your baby to someone else (usually a stranger!) What would happen if we unpacked all of the myths and fears that surround pregnancy, birth and parenting?
This is me after my 2nd baby was born (1st home birth). My 1st baby, born in hospital, ended in an episiotomy, obstetric violence and a lot of birth trauma. And, although I don’t blame myself for anything that happened, I wish I could go back and tell my 21 year old self “there is another way!”
I didn’t know much about pregnancy, birth or postpartum. I did the usual, download the app that tells me what size fruit my baby is this week and go to my routine appointments. My ‘birth plan’ consisted of “no epidural” and “water birth” because I didn’t really feel like I had a choice.. I was just going with the flow and hoping for the best. So when I found out I was pregnant again, I knew things HAD to be different!
It’s all about you
You should be the single most important person in your birth team. It should feel like everyone is working for you. Think of your antenatal care as though you are hiring people to do a job, if they’re not meeting your expectations you’re going to find someone else, right?
You deserve excellent care, better outcomes and to feel positive about your birth experience, whether you are choosing NHS maternity care, a different path or a mix of both! That’s where I come in, I’m here to help you get the best care, to be your advocate and your constant (continuity of care is sooo important!)
So, let’s check if we’re a good match!
I’m Kelly, by the way! I’m so glad you’ve found my page. I really, deeply care about you and your family. I care that you are listened to, respected, held and loved, and have everything you need to make the best decisions for you and your family.
I’m not here to judge your choices or give advice, I’m here to support you and I believe that you are the expert here, I trust you. I’m an open soul and understanding of life’s challenges, so come as you are, and I’ll meet you wherever you’re at.
I tend to have a child-led approach, I’m pro choice in every sense and I need you to know that there is more to this. There is more than just going through the motions and feeling like your care is in the hands of strangers, that you don’t truly get a say. This pregnancy and birth is yours and I am going to walk alongside you, cheering you on as you claim it!
The Fermanagh Doula 