I’m always deeply touched every time another woman* shares her story with me, often because the level of trust that this requires, but also that sharing what awful things a
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Birth trauma, sexual abuse and trauma-informed care.
Guilt and the Pain of Perinatal Mental Health
I read the article, tears stinging my eyes. I blink them away and try to let my logical mind silence the thunderous beating in my chest. I look at my
Read moreBreastfeeding – My Lifeline
I could barely hold the funnel to my breast. My hands, swollen and numb grasped as hard as they could, my body, weak, hardly had the strength I needed. I
Read moreMoney disguised as Hope
You know the ones I mean. You have seen them. The all singing websites and the glossy leaflets. You scroll down and see smiling, happy faces and the testimonies that
Read morePlease Listen – Service User Voices
‘May your story be a page in someone else’s survival guide’ The years have past but the memories are etched on my mind. There are certain things you can’t erase,
Read moreBirth Trauma Awareness – Feeling Hopeful and Reflective
I’m feeling hopeful. Much more so than I have for the many years previously, where birth trauma was hardly mentioned and women would often have their experiences dismissed due to
Read moreBirth Trauma and PTSD -part 2- the search for help.
They say the road to recovery can be a long one and I know the true meaning of those words, often the road is long and bumpy, you can take
Read moreMental Health Matters – World Mental Health Day
Today is World Mental Health Day. There are many people sharing their stories about the reality of living with mental health. Why is this important? Because by sharing our stories
Read moreThe birthing environment matters to all.
The room is beautiful. Soft hues of yellow shine light like prisms of sunlight. The bed big and inviting the type you want to fall into, its softness enveloping you
Read moreContinuity of Carer matters
There has been a lot of talk recently about continuity of carer in maternity services and the difference it can make it women, babies and families. The National Maternity Review
Read moreBirth Trauma and Infant mental health
When it comes to mental health and wellbeing we know that too much stress is bad for anyone. Stress causes cortisol to surge around the body and can leave anyone
Read moreBirth Trauma Awareness – Why it matters.
“Awareness is like the sun, when it shines on things they are transformed” Emma Jane Sasaru Despite maternal mental health being more in the news and on the national agenda
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