Birth and death are interlinked in so many ways. They are the portals through which we enter and leave the world, and should be prepared for and supported with utmost respect and reverence. 

Both birth and death can seem overwhelming and frightening, but with the right support they should be gentle, and maybe even beautiful moments. Birth and death have the potential to create generational ripples of change; healing trauma, bringing families together, and helping people transition from one chapter of their life to the next.

Birth

Becoming a parent to a new baby, whether for the first or fifth (or more!) time, is a complex experience with many challenges, emotions and practical considerations to balance. 

It can be a wonderful, exciting, beautiful time. It can be a time of empowerment, where you learn, plan, and make choices which leave you feeling strong and in charge. It can be a time of calm, connection, relaxation. 

But there are many ways in which your pregnancy and birth experience can become challenging. If you have had a difficult experience before, this can cause worry or stress; If you have concerns over your or your baby's health; if you don't have full support to own your choices from those around you; if plans change last minute; or if you feel overwhelmed by any, or all of it. By having the right team around you, these challenges are all manageable, and your experience can still be a beautiful one. 

Death

Whilst facing up to the fact that we will all die can be uncomfortable and frightening, this is one of life's greatest certainty. The concept of death is often linked with the idea of suffering, but there can also be moments of humour, joy, empowerment and comfort found for the dying person and their loved ones. 

By planning in advance for death, we can ensure our wishes are communicated, we become comfortable with our decisions and have the chance to discuss them with loved ones so there are no surprises when the time comes. There is often a lot more choice available than we may think, such as the location and people who will support you, which comfort measures are available, and which personal touches can make the experience as gentle as possible for the dying person and their loved ones. 

The Doula Role

As a doula I am here to support you. I am here to listen, and to hold space for all of your emotional processing, as you journey through these huge rites of passage. I will support you to remain at the centre of your care, with your priorities at the forefront.  I offer practical support to reduce the burden of everyday tasks and optimise your comfort. I offer reliable information to guide your decision making.  

Whilst we can't always predict the twists and turns that mother nature has in store for us, the aim is to ensure that each person and their family feels prepared and informed to have an empowering experience, on their own terms. I hope that each family who works with me comes out of the other side knowing they did all that they needed to, feeling emotionally healthy and prepared for life's next chapter.

If this may be what you need and you want to talk more...

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