Birth support does not just refer to support at the birth itself, but also to anything related to your preparation for birth including conception, pregnancy and early parenting. Support can be physical, emotional or informational and can be provided by a variety of practitioners each with a different focus. On this website, we have tried to cover all the bases and all the possible types of support (including doulas, childbirth educators, midwives, lactation consultants, natural health practitioners, local support groups and organisations) so that you have it all at your fingertips. But why is support so important?
BIRTH IS A BIG 'UNKNOWN'
In today's society, there tends to be a lot of fear about the birth process, particularly because most first-time parents have never been to a birth before. There was a time (way back!) when women commonly attended friends' or relatives' births to provide support, so it was not such an 'unknown' to them and not so scary. Wisdom too was freely passed down through generations of women. This still happens in many cultures around the world. However, now in Western society, birth is completely removed from the community and for almost a century it has been this mysterious event where a women goes into hospital and comes out with a baby! Support from a someone experienced in birth and parenting issues can help you to know what to expect and feel confident that everything will be okay!
SIFTING THROUGH ALL THE INFO
With so much information floating around and 'advice' coming from every direction, it can be overwhelming and confusing. Having someone you can turn to who can help you make sense of it all and put your mind at ease is a valuable resource.
A TIME OF GREAT PHYSICAL CHANGE
A woman's body goes through huge changes during pregnancy, birth and the post-partum period. There are many natural therapies which can support your physical health and help ease common aches and pains. Massage, acupuncture, Naturopathy, just to name a few! There are also many natural alternatives to some obstetrical problems which could help you to avoid something more invasive. It's a great idea to investigate your options.
HOW YOU FEEL MATTERS
Our emotions are intricately linked to our physical body and can affect the birth process, breastfeeding and relationships. Having emotional support can make a world of difference to how you feel about the upcoming birth and after your baby is born. Babies are also exceptionally perceptive to the emotional environment so a happy mama usually means a happy bubba! Support is a key factor in avoiding postnatal depression which today women are experiencing in alarming rates.
Becoming a parent is one of the biggest events life can offer and it deserves honour, respect and support. Feeling supported and nurtured during these delicate times will generally result in better outcomes for mothers, babies and families. :)