HannahDoula

05/07/2018

All around the world, for hundreds of years, women have supported each other in childbirth. Throughout history, the use of a rebozo or similar has been a great tool in reducing tension and helping to relax the labouring mother, so the amazing Sophie Messager has produced a brilliant online course to learn these useful and relaxing techniques. For more information just follow the link!

Picture yourself, heavily pregnant, uncomfortable, and fed up of waiting for baby to arrive. Imagine yourself in labour feeling uncomfortable, and later on afte(...)

27/06/2018

💕 Someone fetch the tissues... 💕

It's three A.M., they're all asleep,
And no one's here to see
As we rock slowly back and forth
My baby boy and me.

His little head is feather- light
Tucked up against my chin.
I hold his tiny hand in mine
And stroke his baby skin.

The old apartment house about us creaks and groans,
The clock hands creep around.
He snuggles close to me still
And makes his baby sounds.

I love those quiet hours so much
And cherish every one.
Store memories within my heart
For lonely nights to come.

All to soon he'll be grown up
His need for me gone.
But until then I still have time
For kisses and for song.

Time for quiet hours like this
With him cuddled in my arm,
Where I wish he'd always stay,
Protected, safe and warm.

And yet I know the day will come
When this tiny little hand
Will be much bigger than my own.
He'll grow to be a man.

But until then he's mine to love,
With no one here to see
As we rock slowly back and forth
My baby boy and me.

by Judy Emery

24/06/2018

There are so many changes in the first year. A mother learns that she can dig deeper, love harder and sleep less than she’s ever had to before!

22/06/2018

Who else is awake and feeing a little gymnast? The ‘Foot Silencer’ is one of our regulars at the moment... 🙄

21/06/2018

The kiddies and I had a little trip out to visit the Frauenarzt yesterday! Yes, Germany even provides special doctors just for us ladies 🤗and they like to see us twice a year, just for a check up and chat, which I think is brilliant!

She asked about the children, their births and any complications. “No complications, Evan was born in hospital and Ffion was born at home” says I.
Well she was amazed! She asked about it (as it’s far more common in the UK) and was stunned when I explained how I was so relaxed that the midwife just sat quietly on the sidelines, letting me follow my primal instincts.

I then mentioned how the experience of having a good friend present (as well as my fab husband!) had led me to learn more about becoming a doula. This was not only a new word for her, but a whole new concept! I explained the role briefly (as if that’s actually possible!) and again, she was amazed that the lucky ladies of the UK have access to such facilities!

So in light of this, if you’ve ever wondered about the role of a doula, have a read! I’m happy to answer any questions you may have, and let’s bring more doula love to Germany!!

So, what is a Doula and What Do You Get Out of Having One? A doula is a well-informed friend. She’s there for you when you need a listening ear. She points you in the direction of good quality information to help you make decisions along the way. She encourages you to work out what …

09/06/2018

Finally I think I’ve found and unpacked all of the nappies and 5 slings! I know I probably don’t *need* all of them, but I can’t bear to move them on just yet...!

10/05/2018

It’s been a busy few weeks, but we are (almost!) unpacked and settled into our new home!
Germany has been spoiling us with gorgeous weather and blue skies almost every day, and it’s hard to imagine the beautiful green Möhnesee area under the blanket of snow which arrives every winter! Our German language is coming on slowly and everyone here is so friendly and patient with our attempts to make conversation!
The children start Kindergarten in August, so I plan to be available for antenatal and postnatal doula support from then, but in the mean time, please don’t hesitate to contact me if you need a chat with an English-speaking doula or for breastfeeding support.
Have a very lovely day,

Hannah ###

30/09/2017

Since starting my doula preparation, so many people have asked me what a doula is or why women would want one.
This. This is why every woman deserves someone in her corner who understands the emotional journey of a labouring mother. So many interventions can be avoided if women are allowed to respond to their body in a calm and relaxed state.