Do you ever wonder what it must be like for a midwife expecting their own child? Is it exciting? Overwhelming? Just like every expectant mum, many thoughts go through their mind as they anticipate the arrival of their child.
Although childbirth is a normal physiological process, there are many variations to normal and by having extensive knowledge in childbirth; this may alter the expectations of the pregnancy and birth experience.
Jasmine, currently 35 weeks pregnant with her first child has been a midwife for over 8 years, working predominately on the antenatal ward and in birthing suite. When asked about her thoughts around her expectations of birth, she responded, “I feel at ease about giving birth, I know it’s only one day”. She expressed an open mindedness approach to her birth experience. Having worked with Jasmine for quite some time now, I wasn’t surprised by her relaxed response. Jasmine has natural warmth about her when assisting soon-to-be parents through childbirth. She approaches every birth with patience, love and kindness. It is apparent that her patient’s feel very comfortable in her presence. As a midwife, this is a wonderful quality to have and is essential in achieving the best birthing outcome for a couple.
Having now experienced pregnancy herself, Jasmine has a greater appreciation for the “little aches and pains in the first trimester, that you think can’t be anything but still worry about it”.
Has your pregnancy changes your practice as a midwife working on the antenatal ward? Yes. It makes you appreciate what women’s bodies go through to grow a baby. And it gives me greater empathy towards women with complex pregnancies.
How have you prepared yourself for the birth of your daughter? By looking at other women’s births I’ve taken bits from them e.g. coping technique. That I’d like to use as well as things I wouldn’t want.
I’ve tried to focus on the positives of child birth. Hoping to use as many natural therapies for coping with labour, whilst remaining completely aware and informed as I may change my mind on my birth plan whilst in labour, knowing I have options.
What are you most looking forward after your daughter is born? Just actually getting to meet this little girl I’ve had growing inside of me and learning all her traits and characteristics.
As the end of her pregnancy approaches excitement in meeting her daughter is quickly escalating for both her and her husband. I wish Jasmine and Roble a safe and positive birthing experience and the postnatal period is of smooth transition.
Cara x