By Jill Ritchie, Birth & Postpartum Doula

Babeeze In Arms Doula Centre

Postpartum Diary - February 12th, 1988

“It is a cold, dreary wintery morning and another day begins by sitting and staring at the TV wondering how I survived another silent weekend . My body is so full of frustration that I feel as though each tiny vessel under my skin is about to explode. I try to fight back the feelings of melting into a heap on the floor hoping and praying that life will flow from me. This is the only way to end the torment I now feel on a daily basis…”

Finally, after 9 months of feeling those tiny toes tickling your ribs or a little elbow poking your side you are holding your baby in your arms.

What happens when motherhood arrives and it is not what you thought it would be?

The postpartum period is the most vulnerable time of a woman’s life. Taking on the responsibility of caring for an infant can be overwhelming for a new mother.

Women are reluctant to talk about their feelings of unhappiness because of the many myths surrounding motherhood. Guilt and shame occur when reality does not match what society expects of new moms. It is important to talk about feelings in order to cope - we need to know what is normal.

The following are 10 myths of motherhood.

1. Mothers should be able to fulfill all of the needs of their children.

2. Mothers have infinite patience.

3. Our baby will improve our relationship.

4. Birth and mothering are natural and simple.

5. Everyone should be able to be a good mother without help.

6. Parenting requires no training.

7. Appearing needy or vulnerable is a sign of weakness.

8. Taking time for yourself is selfish, you should put another’s needs before your own.

9. Motherhood is a joyous experience.

10. You should be able to resume your old life as quickly and smoothly as possible.

Remember, myths are just that, they are NOT true.

The following factors contribute to postpartum depression:

Hormonal cascade after delivery.

Fatigue/sleep deprivation.

Physical discomfort.

Emotional letdown after pregnancy and birth.

Anxiety about new role

Challenges of Breastfeeding.

Mothering is not a time to be alone. We are a social society that has survived because we believe in families.

As the mother of five children I am no stranger to the emotional ups and downs of postpartum. I have shared with you my own personal diary entry during one of the most vulnerable times in my life. I remember how hard it was to ask for help. I was fortunate to have my sisters who came to my rescue.

Let me be your sister,

Let me be your friend,

I will listen,

I will comfort,

I will not judge.

Babeeze In Arms is excited to now offer two new programs that we believe will not only help prepare for postpartum adjustment but also to heal from any birth trauma that can contribute to postpartum depression.

Instructor

Nicole Versaevel has been active in childbirth since 1992. She is a registered midwife, and certified childbirth educator. She is a skilled facilitator and holds an Honours Bachelor of Social Work. She brings experience and passion to the classroom environment.

Healing from Birth Course Description

Birthing mothers can be transformed by the mystery and power of birth, and at the same time, be overcome with feelings of confusion, powerlessness, blame, or regret about a particular moment they feel they failed or were failed.

Sometimes women need to work through emotions of disappointment, fear, and guilt surrounding their baby’s birth – even years afterward.
This workshop aims to help women to:

-Recognize predisposing factors and sources of birth trauma

-Learn about the healing process

-Share birth stories with other women who are mending their birth story

-Explore strategies to heal from birth trauma or grief

Postpartum Class Course Description

“You think that pregnancy lasts 9 months and then you find out that the rest of your life is pregnant”.

Preparing for the birth of a baby often centres around labour, birth and practicalities. Our culture has overlooked the importance of the immediate postpartum time as a significant aspect of prenatal preparation. This unique class aims to prepare families for the physical, emotional and social needs of the transition to parenting.

1) Physical Healing

2) Emotional Aspects of Postpartum

3) Culture, postpartum and babies

4) Fears and Expectations about postpartum and parenting

5) Ways to get rest

6) Planning for Postpartum

For more information on any of our programs or services please visit:

www.babeezeinarms.com