I felt that I was safe so long as you were there watching ❤️

/

My labour came on hard and fast and soon I was off to hospital, hoping to slip into a big warm pool and give birth within the next few hours. Unfortunately it wasn’t quite as quick as that, but after having so many obstacles thrown our way we got the VBAC I was so hopeful for and that was an incredibly beautiful and special experience that I will remember for the rest of my life.

I learned a lot about myself and about labour through the experience. It was very intense and not ‘to plan’ but I feel very lucky and grateful.

Nancy, you helped me/us understand the hospital system so much better than we did the first time and how to prevent things becoming difficult with important negotiations. That was everything for a VBAC. I felt that you understood the nature of labour exceptionally well and that I was safe so long as you were there watching. It was so important for me to feel safe through such intense pain and to have a familiar face who wasn’t just my husband but someone calm and experienced with birth.

What is the most memorable moment of our time together?
Remembering to breathe and relax all my muscles at the end of and between every contraction. I think this helped me physically and mentally to cope with the contractions. I think I learned the most during our birth plan session and how you edited my original birth plan and pointing out all the possible loopholes I’d have never seen.

It was extremely helpful to be able to message/call you whenever I needed and get answers about anything I was having issues with.

Oh and the massages!!

What did you find were the most helpful things through your labour?
Probably being adaptable and ready to change plans if things didn’t feel right (for example going into hospital a lot earlier than planned, knowing when was the right time to get the epidural etc). That took a lot of having to be confident in my own choices and responding to the situation as it arose. I think the ‘doing the least to achieve the most’ idea too - relaxing in early labour, staying in the pool in a squat position rather than feeling bad about not getting out and walking up stairs etc. Just being comfortable with doing whatever felt right to me and my body to stay calm.

Did you want to mention anything else about our time together?

  • Massages were incredible! You’re very knowledgeable about the body and helped me manage pain issues in my pelvis.

  • Pain tolerance practice with my calf muscles was so useful!

  • The Body Balancing Workshop together with my husband also really helped us physically practice what we were learning in the She Births course and Spinning Babies online.

Do my fees reflect the service you received?
Yes I think I got very good value for money. It’s a hard thing to put a price on! Getting a VBAC was really invaluable to me and you really helped me to get that.

If you were to share words of wisdom with a first time family preparing for labour, birth & bringing their baby home, what would they be?

  • Get a doula! That’s what I tell my friends now.

  • Do a proper active birth skills birth class, not the hospital class or hypnobirthing class (or not only those anyway).

  • Try to get into MGP.

Would you like to rave about any practitioners/websites/podcasts/groups you used during your pregnancy or postpartum to other families?:

  • Anna Lanyon for sure! I also did pain tolerance practice with her and a mini active birth skills appointment with my husband. She was really direct and upfront about the pain and intensity of childbirth and coping strategies and I appreciated that. (https://www.herconnectionphysio.com.au)

Lots of love from all of us. x

You really helped me take control of my own pregnancy and labour.

/

My waters broke early, at 37 weeks at 5am, contractions were really light until about 5pm and I put the TENS machine on when they started to ramp up. Nancy was on the phone to Karl as I laboured, guiding him to help me manage each contraction, and she came over at about 4.30am. After sitting on the toilet through a few contractions I felt baby drop and knew it was time to go to the hospital at about 5.30am. My contractions sped up in the car, and by the time I got to the hospital they were very intense, but we still walked all the way to the birth unit (where I threw up all over the hallway). I got straight into our birthing suite and had a very strong contraction as I was getting into the bath, and was worried the baby would come right there, But I made it in, and started pushing, completely unguided, my baby River was born in the water at 6.44am after what felt like about 3 pushes.

I came into this pregnancy with lingering trauma from my first birth. Too much intervention and not enough knowledge left me feeling disempowered, with really negative thoughts about birth and postpartum.

Through my pregnancy, Nancy gave me the tools to understand why I was feeling like I was, and allowed me the space to let go of my past trauma. In our sessions she helped me build the confidence to have a strong birth plan, as well as giving myself permission to practice some much needed self care in the lead up to my birth.

As I was labouring, Nancy provided really critical support to my husband. Thanks to her coaching, he was able to calm me down when my waters broke early, avoiding an unnecessary trip to hospital. Nancy was communicating with him via text and phone throughout the labour, and he was in turn able to provide me with the best support possible. When she did arrive in person, she knew exactly where I was up to, and what I needed to do to get the baby into the right spot. When we got to the hospital she spoke to the hospital staff so Karl could support me, and guided both of us to the birthing suite, supporting me through each contraction.

As I got into the birthing bath and began to push, she was with me all the way, and was communicating with the midwife so neither me nor Karl needed to be concerned with anything other than the birth of our child.

After he was born, Nancy stayed with us, helping me manage communication with the hospital staff and making sure my birth needs were met - including a natural 3rd stage and delayed cord clamping. Postpartum she helped us navigate breastfeeding and managing having a toddler and a newborn at home. She also helped with my toddlers sleep patterns which started to take a turn after River was born, and helped us to manage the transition.

Having her there to debrief really completed what was a cathartic, healing pregnancy and birth experience, and allowed me once again to believe in myself and the strength of my body to create and birth two healthy, happy children.

Nancy did so much for us. We hired her to help us with the birth but we got so much more out of the experience and it has bought us closer as a couple than we ever thought it would.

WHAT IS THE MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT OF OUR TIME TOGETHER?

One main thing you kept telling me was the fear/tension/pain cycle, and this helped me relax as I had to actively think about releasing the tension so I would feel less pain. It kind of acted like a mantra for me as my contractions became more intense.

You also made me ask “why” whenever something was presented to me, and that really helped me take control of my own pregnancy and labour.

CAN YOU EXPLAIN TO OTHER FAMILIES WHAT THE MOST HELPFUL PART OF THE DOULA SUPPORT WAS FOR YOU?:

It was more your presence during those critical times. During the labour at home when you arrived, your presence was calming for me. Particularly when I was feeling exhausted, but you knew it was my endorphins kicking in, you said “you’re not tired, you’re just really high, which means your baby is so close!” It gave me the strength to keep going.

You helped me make the hard decisions which would help me in the long run for example, although I hated it at the time, you didn’t accept the wheelchair to go up to the birthing unit, but rather held my hand and walked with me. It was painful but it was what I needed to get the baby to the right position so that when I hit the bath water all I needed to do was push.

ENOUGH ABOUT ME! TELL THE MUMMAS WHAT THE MOST HELPFUL THINGS WERE TO YOU IN LABOUR?:

  • TENS machine was a life saver. I actually don’t know how I got through my first labour without it!

  • Having a mantra really helped, mine was “open mouth, open cervix” so I remembered not to clench my jaw, it really helped me to remove a lot of the tension.

  • Creating the right environment. I used candles with a scent that I loved, and kept everything dark and moody with a good playlist to boot, it really helped to calm me down and get the oxytocin flowing.

WANT TO TELL US ABOUT MASSAGE?

I got several massages from Nancy and they helped so much, from relaxation and tension reduction in the early days (and the chance to catch up/ask questions/vent), to moving fluid around in the last weeks, it helped so much. My husband and I also did the Pregnancy Relaxation Massage for Couples Workshop with Nancy which has been incredible because Karl can now give me better and more effective massages if I’m feeling tight or exhausted after looking after the kids. Would definitely highly recommend!

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO SHARE WITH OTHER FAMILIES ON THIS PATH?

Trust your body. It knows what to do. If you relax and lean into the process instead of trying to manage it you will have a much smoother ride with a better outcome. Also, time has no place in labour and birth. It will take as long time to as it takes, and timing things and looking at the clock makes it much more stressful!

IS THERE ANYONE ELSE THAT WAS AWESOME TO YOU DURING YOUR JOURNEY?

There was an incredible doctor at Wollongong Hospital who stitched me up, I can’t remember her name but she referred to herself as the “hippy doctor.” She asked my consent before doing anything and gave me the full run down of the pros and cons of what was happening so as I was fully aware of what I was consenting to. She was really incredible and made me feel safe and supported in a pretty vulnerable situation.

Karl says:

Having a doula definitely helped during labour as Nancy was able to answer all my questions and I was able to give feedback on Colette’s progress. This communication freed up Colette’s mind and she was able to concentrate/focus on her body which resulted in a smooth delivery. The massage workshop was an added bonus as we continue to use these techniques now.

Love Colette, Karl and Baby River

You were our bodyguard in the hospital and helped us achieve our wishes of an undisturbed birth.

/

I woke at 12:05 am to a feeling of wetness and sure enough, I had started losing my mucous plug. This was shortly followed by contractions which developed through the night. By morning I was in active labour and continued to progress with the huge help of my husband keeping my relaxed and grounded, and the running hot shower I stayed under for hours.

Nancy helped us stay at home as long as possible and knew when the time was right to make it the hospital, and she was bang on; I delivered within 20 minutes of arriving and fulfilled my dreams of a completely undisturbed birth. A wonderful start to little Rupert's life.

The major difference you made was helping Rhys to coach me through active labour. He learnt relaxation techniques during our prenatal session and utilised that when I was feeling panicky and overwhelmed by the sensations. It completely turned my labour around.

The other major difference was confidently knowing and helping us understand when the right time to go to hospital was. It was so great to have your knowledge and advice here as I had no idea we were so progressed. You were our bodyguard in the hospital and helped us achieve our wishes of an undisturbed birth.

Rhys’s thoughts:

You helped him feel confident in knowing what I needed to be able to support me better during labour and helped him navigate the hospital by taking charge once we arrived.

WHAT IS THE MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT OF OUR TIME TOGETHER?:

I loved how you weren't in any rush to leave after Rupert had arrived. I have beautiful memories of how cosy and lovely that time was just after the birth.

I also felt so empowered when you had me check where Rupert was to know when the time to leave was. This was an incredible moment when I felt his head!

WHAT WAS THE MOST HELPFUL THING I DID TO SUPPORT YOU?:

  • Supported our wishes with zero judgement.

  • Helped us to know when the time to leave was.

  • Ensured we were given space and respect in the hospital.

ENOUGH ABOUT ME! TELL THE MUMMAS WHAT THE MOST HELPFUL THINGS WERE TO YOU IN LABOUR?:

My husband coaching me to completely relax and surrender to the contractions. This was a game changer and completely turned my labour around, it became faster and less painful.

DID WE DO ANYTHING ELSE TOGETHER THAT YOU’D LIKE TO MENTION?

Placenta encapsulation. It was a beautiful closure for me to consume my placenta and increased my ferritin three fold! It has never been so robust.

IF YOU WERE TO SHARE WORDS OF WISDOM WITH A FIRST TIME FAMILY PREPARING FOR LABOUR, BIRTH & BRINGING THEIR BABY HOME, WHAT WOULD IT BE?:

Hire a doula! Absolutely the best investment you can make to ensure you have a positive birth experience and start life with your baby on the right foot.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

  • Acupuncture from 36 weeks

  • Postpartum Physiotherapist (I use Sophie Carroll in Bowral)

  • Pregactive Pregnancy and Postnatal Pilates program

Love Sarah, Rhys and Rupert Howard

You held the most healing space I’ve experienced.

/

Flic says:

I experienced a stop-start contractions over 4 days. My baby was posterior and I experienced very strong hip pain. I was so grateful for the incredible guidance and support of our doula Nancy who gave us the confidence to navigate those days at home for as long as we could before we transferred to hospital.

Nancy was the greatest decision we could have made for our entire pregnancy, labour, birth and post-partum. From the moment we met her she felt like the big sister role I needed - supportive, caring, passionate, educated and honest. Nancy has an incredible way of providing information, but also leaving you feel in complete control of your decisions - something I’ve learnt is so important in the birth space.
Whilst my birth and labour didn’t unfold how we had envisaged, I felt totally supported and still endlessly proud of how we navigated it. I honestly believe that without Nancy, my birth outcomes would likely have looked very different and the flow on effects would still have an impact on me today. Nancy knew what was important to me and she honoured that at every step of the way.

Andrew says:

Nancy helped with massage, spinning babies techniques, understanding my wife’s needs during labour, practical things (ie. remembering to eat), someone to talk to who cared for my wife but wasn’t too closely related.

My love, what is your most memorable moment of our time together?

Where to start!?!? You met us in the beautiful sunshine and had me doing acrobatics off massage tables, you dried and brushed my hair with so much love, you stared into my eyes whilst I navigated contractions on the toilet - feeling more helpless than ever- and you asked me what I wanted 🥺, you shared with me some of the most profound and vulnerable moments when you knew the time was right, (you made me go on that f$%*ing walk to the beach! Haha), you did not leave my presence for 24hrs, you laughed and cried with me, you slept on a hospital couch, you stroked my back in the bath, you advocated for me. You helped me remember how proud I was of my birth and labour and the journey we took to bring our boy into this world. You held the most healing space I’ve experienced and made sure I didn’t loose sight of what happened and it’s importance. To this day, “Trust Yourself” is still written on our weekly calendar whiteboard in your writing….I cannot bring myself to rub it off as it always brings a smile to myself as I think of everything you walked alongside us for.

And the most helpful thing I did to support you?

Maintained honesty. This was one of your most incredible qualities the whole way through. You were always upfront and steady, we knew there was no BS. It was amazing as I knew I could always go to you for anything, but you wouldn’t sway my decision. You would give me so much relevant information, a shoulder to lean on and I knew I would walk away with a decision that was still mine.

What were the most helpful things to you in labour?

  • Nancy.

  • My husband - we had communicated a lot prior to labour about what we wanted, and he had done a lot of his own reading too so I knew no matter what, we were on the same page.

  • Education. Read, listen, watch - do whatever it takes to know all the options you have. You can’t always control what happens in your birth but there’s nothing more empowering than being able to walk away knowing you did everything in your power to make decisions that were right for you.

Was there anything else that helped?

  • Couples Pregnancy Massage Workshop - this was so great and Nancy transformed the way my husband could relieve any tight back/hips throughout pregnancy. It was such a nice thing for us to do together.

  • Placenta encapsulation - I loved this! Nancy was so quick getting them to me, and super informative about the process.

  • Post-partum doula service- so good! Delicious meals, Snacks, debriefs, chats, EC and cloth nappy lessons..someone who was there during labour to share with after was the best!

WORDS OF WISDOM:

Cook and freeze as many meals and snacks as humanly possibly for your post partum period. Like, all the meals and snacks. Do not stop making meals and snacks.

Is there anything/anyone else you’d like to recommend to families getting ready to birth?

  • Nancy

  • Australian Birth Stories Podcast

  • Rhea Dempsey books/interviews

Love Felicity, Andrew & baby Otto

Her presence at the birth was all I needed. She held the space for me and knowing there was a woman in the room who truly trusted me, my body and my baby.

/

Went into labour at around 10.30pm, everything went so seamlessly and fast. Laboured for a short time in the bathroom before waking Andrew up, asked him to call Nancy to let her know that it was happening. As soon as I had a shower to relax, the contractions went to less than a minute apart. We left for the hospital soon after.

Got to the hospital at the same time as Nancy, walked into maternity, settled into the room and was left alone to labour. Within an hour or so, after just standing against the bed, Nyah made her way into the work without much pushing, straight into her daddy’s arms.

Nancy was so loving and kind from the moment I met her. She held space for me to unravel the fear and doubt I held around giving birth after a previous traumatic birth experience. She went absolutely above and beyond for me.

Her presence at the birth was all I needed. She held the space for me and knowing there was a woman in the room who truly trusted me, my body and my baby.

I can’t fault Nancy, she has a beautiful heart and is exactly what women need .

Later on Nancy helped me with sleep when Nyah was a few months old and it was amazing support!

Andrew’s thoughts:

Andrew was so happy to have you to guide us through pregnancy and birth. He believes the prep session before birth was amazing, not just the teachings but the way you facilitate the couple to connect on a deeper level.

WHAT WAS THE MOST HELPFUL THING TO IN LABOUR?

Just letting go and trusting, trusting myself, my body and my baby.

I feel like your presence at the birth was the most powerful thing for me. To just know you were there and trusting me was all I needed.

You held space for me while I navigated my journey.

WORDS OF WISDOM:

Trust. Trust your intuition because that is what will guide you through this journey.

Love Amy, Andrew and Nyah

You were relentless in your support. I love you for that.

/

Labour started in the evening and was low key over night. I then woke up and spent most the early morning napping, texting Nancy and walking around my block. By the afternoon transition had hit me and I was feeling worried about my ability to do it alone (Nancy wasn’t allowed into the hospital due to covid lockdown). My husband got us into the car on our way to the hospital where things inevitably slowed down. It all happened quite quickly that we only phoned Nancy in the car on the way there so she couldn’t rationalise with me as I was already planning to stray from my birth plan and get an epidural as soon as I walked in.

Upon finding out I was 8cm on arrival my husband and I cried tears of joy and triumph. I swear I heard the “eye of the tiger” riff play in my head!

After watching the film birth time I knew I needed support. I went home and contacted Nancy that night, I thank my lucky stars that she had one spot left as I was a late addition.

Nancy was so gentle with me but fierce with her passion for positive birth outcomes. Nancy had the answer to everything, she spoke to my need to expose injustice and she educated me not only in the process of knowing I can birth without intervention but also supported me through some of hardest times post-birth. Nancy is a born nurturer and her ability to be a presence in your life that resembles a wonderful mother figure, a baddass activist and best friend who is intelligent and understands many perspectives is her super power.

I don’t even know what I would have done without her.

Alexander says:
Nancy gave me the tools to support Em during labour, how to read her body language and understand the spiritual side of a birthing woman. Nancy taught me to use my voice to advocate for Emily and our baby.

What is the most memorable moment of our time together?
Breastfeeding issues caused me a lot of heartache. You were relentless in your support and options you provided. I love you for that.

What was the most helpful doula thing I helped with?
Educate me! I now use the information you taught me and the resources you sent me to help others and that is the best gift!

Also breastfeeding and postpartum doula support. You would arrive and things would get better. You would let yourself in, make a cuppa for me, bring some snacks and let me ramble. Thank you.

What did you find were the most helpful things through your labour?
TENS machine and breathing!

Do my fees reflect the service you received?
10000%

If you were to share words of wisdom with a first time family preparing for labour, birth & bringing their baby home, what would they be?
Nothing is permanent, always call for help!

Would you like to rave about any practitioners/websites/podcasts/groups you used during your pregnancy or postpartum to other families?:

Practitioners:

Podcasts:

Resources:

Love Emily, Alexander & Jude

I got my VBAC! You truly helped me see things differently!

/

I had a 12 hour med free labour that was the most empowering moment of my life. A few interventions (with consent) but I achieved my VBAC.

During my pregnancy you helped me keep positive and always made sure to remind me that I was the only one who was in charge of my birth plan as at times I would doubt myself. I was attempting a VBAC so it was all very scary for me but with your guidance I felt at ease regardless of what the outcome may have been I knew you would be there to help me jump every hurdle that came my way.

During labour/birth I needed an extra voice, a support person who was knowledgeable and would help me stay in a good mind set. You did just that and more. You reminded me of my birth plan and reminded me that I was in charge of my body and that I had the choice to decline or accept certain medical interventions.

My partner felt supported by having you there and felt at ease knowing that together as a team we would achieve my vbac dreams. The guidance/ suggestions in the lead up to the labour/birth allowed him to go into the birth with an open mind and a better understanding of how he could help me bring my baby into the world.

What is the most memorable moment of our time together?: Honestly your positivity is something that always stuck with me. The way you viewed birth was eye opening and truly helped me see things differently when it came to what I want. You made me realise that It is me who is in control of birthing my baby.

What was the most helpful thing I did to support you?: Absolutely everything! No but seriously, you focused on my wants and needs. You helped me get closer to my VBAC dreams! Which might I add, I got my VBAC :)

Do you feel that you got good value for money? Do my fees reflect the service you received?: Yes, definitely! I recieved the best care!

Enough about me! Tell the mummas what the most helpful things were to you in labour?: Tens machine is a MUST! That really helped me get through majority of the pain as my labour was a pain med free labour.

Would you mind letting me know how you found me and why you chose me?: I found you on the VBAC facebook group as you were recommended by others. 
I chose you the moment we spoke on the phone, there was just something about the way you spoke that resonated with me.

If you were to share words of wisdom with a first time family preparing for labour, birth & bringing their baby home, what would it be?: As cliche as it sounds, always believe in yourself. You know your body best and only you are in charge of how you birth your baby. The unknown can be scary sometimes but once you hold your baby for the first time somehow you just know that this is where you were meant to be.

Would you like to rave about any practitioners/websites/podcasts/groups you used during your pregnancy or postpartum to other families?: I listened to the VBAC podcasts as well as followed the Australian VBAC group on facebook.

Love Yesim, Orhan and Altay

An experienced support person that knew me, my preferences, my history and would advocate for me as I would for myself.

/

After a breech elective c-section and a lifetime of traumatic surgery, I was desperate for a supportive and empowered VBAC. Nancy believed in my dream as much as I did. When the going got tough and my confidence waivered, she still believed in me. Surrounded by a supportive birthing team and with the knowledge that they wanted me to succeed, I lived my dream. A healing, empowered VBAC to meet my baby boy.

IMAGINE I WASN'T THERE. TELL ME ALL ABOUT HOW I HELPED YOU AND HOW IT HAS MADE A DIFFERENCE. :

The most important thing for me was knowing that there was an experienced support person that knew me, my preferences, my history and would advocate for me as I would for myself. You did all of that and more.

Even though I knew you may not be in town for Ronan's birth, I trusted wholeheartedly that you would find me a doula that could meet these needs (and you did!) I was blown away by your deep knowledge about each of the things that popped up during my pregnancy and labour and by your clear-headed approach to navigating the birthing system I chose (and the challenges that come from working within that system). Each time we hit a road bump or a road block, I knew that there was someone in our corner who would provide us with personalised support and advice, unincentivised by anything other than helping us to figure things out.

I never doubted for a second that we had the right person to support us through this journey (and the comfort of that knowledge may have been even more important than the practical experience itself).

Adam’s thoughts:

Adam found it helpful that you showed him how to use hands on techniques, particularly the rebozo which we used at home in early labour. He also found comfort in knowing that there was a second person supporting me and that it wasn't solely on his shoulders. He said he was impressed by you lining up Alyssa to support us on the day and that he felt you had made a concerted effort to find the right person to do that for us.

YOUR MEMORABLE MOMENT OF OUR TIME TOGETHER?

I cannot express enough gratitude for your practical and emotional support as we navigated the GDM testing challenges. Although I felt the GDM results were inaccurate and I wanted to make sure we had a true diagnosis, I felt defeated. I sobbed in my obstetrician's office that my VBAC dream was dead. But you still believed in me. You reminded me to believe in myself. When I couldn't take the practical steps needed to move forward, you took them for me. You went above and beyond to arrange a new test for me, and I truly believe this pivotal moment changed the course of my pregnancy and led me to the birth experience I had hoped for. I will never forget it.

THE MOST HELPFUL THING I DID TO SUPPORT YOU?

I pride myself on being deeply informed and yet, everything I discovered or questioned - you had deep knowledge about it that I could tap into.

  • Spinning babies, check.

  • GDM testing, how cortisol and glucose interact as you get up in the morning, check.

  • Rebozo, check.

  • How to think about decision making around public and private hospitals when attempting VBAC, check.

  • VBAC statistics, check.

  • Induction methods and their impact on physiological birth, check.

  • I could go on.

I also felt that, not only did you have subject matter expertise, you deeply understood me, us as a couple and our goals, and you were able to tailor that practical information in a way that helped us to make decisions that reflected our goals.

ENOUGH ABOUT ME! TELL THE MUMMAS WHAT THE MOST HELPFUL THINGS WERE TO YOU IN LABOUR?:

  • TENS machine, absolutely!

  • I had hypnobirthing tracks that I had listened to during pregnancy and listened to at home in early labour. Alyssa asked Adam if I had a playlist and actually put it through the sound system at the hospital too, which we hadn't thought about and was wonderful (and thanks to you, Adam knew exactly how to get into my phone, into the app and find those tracks!)

  • I sat on the toilet for a bit at home with my feet on some yoga blocks, which I liked.

  • Used a scarf for some rebozo at home and a yoga ball to rotate my hips around.

  • I had some essential oil that I rubbed in my palms and smelled (I had been putting some in my baths during pregnancy too so it was a familiar, relaxing smell.

Alyssa did a great job during labour and I'm so thankful you found her for us. One thing I felt like you might have done differently (and possibly this was, in part, because labour was my first time meeting her in person!) was that you may have been a little more forceful (in the best way) in encouraging me to push myself to move around/try some of the spinning babies moves towards the end. Alyssa suggested it but I couldn't even entertain the idea and she backed off straight away. I feel like you might have pushed me a little to do it (and in retrospect, I would have appreciated that).

HOW DID YOU FIND ME?

You were recommended in the VBAC Australia and VBAC South Coast/Illawarra Facebook groups. I chose you because I wanted someone who was well informed and a strong advocate. I wasn't looking necessarily for emotional support, but more a person that I knew I could rely upon to champion my preferences in circumstances where I knew I may not be able to do that myself. Knowing you were there and that I had a great support team in place allowed me to relax and trust that I would be taken care of.

WORDS OF WISDOM FOR THE FAMILIES READING:

Growing your family is an emotional, overwhelming and intense, love-filled experience. Feeling all the feelings is part of the journey and every journey is unique. Each time we've had a baby, I have cherished the people who helped us navigate each roadbump, cheered with us when we felt joy and created space for us to adjust to our new normal when our little love arrived. Gather your support team and buckle up for a wonderful adventure!

WOULD YOU LIKE TO RAVE ABOUT ANY PRACTITIONERS/WEBSITES/PODCASTS/GROUPS YOU USED DURING YOUR PREGNANCY OR POSTPARTUM TO OTHER FAMILIES?:

  • Dr Steven Thou, my wonderful OB, and Dr Daniela Susic, my wonderful back-up OB who I felt equally supported by.

  • Julie at Kirrawee Natural Care Clinic.

  • Acupuncture at The Dao Health Clinic (Caringbah, though I believe they've moved to Burraneer).

  • Spinning babies daily exercises.

  • VBAC Australia Facebook group.

  • Nancy Anderson Ab Rehab for postpartum recovery breathing exercises.


BONUS

This is the list of recommendations I keep and share with friends:

THINGS I LOVED
(There are other things we have that I didn't love or am lukewarm about, like SRC compression shorts, our baby monitors and our travel cot. Anything I didn't absolutely love doesn't make this list.)

Pregnancy
- Align tights (Lululemon)
- Bae the label
- Belly bandit support belt https://bellybandit.com.au/collections/maternity/products/upsie-belly?variant=3053456195624
- Compression socks
- Pregnancy pillow https://www.smilobaby.com/products/nursing/pregnancy-and-nursing-pillow

Labour preparation
- Spinning babies daily essentials exercises
https://www.spinningbabies.com/
- Chiro and acupuncture
- Epi-no (this I am lukewarm on but I do think it made a difference)
- Hot Mama tea - The final push

Birth
- Doula
- Tens machine https://blissbirth.com.au/
- Bimby and Roy underwear
- Calm birth school hypnobirthing mediations

Postpartum
- Period underwear a few sizes up from your normal (I did Modibodi, https://www.modibodi.com/collections/french-cut, nicer than disposable mesh undies but doesn't matter if they get bloody)
- Tom Organic Maternity pads (softer than the other brands)
- Medela hydrogel pads https://www.medela.com/breastfeeding/products/breast-care/hydrogel-pads
- Hotmilk Lingerie (nursing bras)
- Peri bottle (for vaginal delivery)
- Peri ice packs can use in underwear for vaginal delivery or on scar for C section (or make padsicles for vaginal delivery - Google it) I liked these ones - https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B07Z99RMTN?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
- Bra heat pads (for engorgement)
- Nancy Anderson's ab rehab

Videos
- Breastfeeding how-to (these were the instructions I found helpful and used with both babies - https://youtu.be/rbbsPjg8Y5I)
- Jess Hover Baby 101 videos

Baby gear
- Snoo
- Dock-a-tot
- Carrier (I prefer the Boppy especially for sub-5 months, Adam prefers the Tula). Carriers are worth trying on because they fit differently on different body shapes. https://www.boppy.com/products/boppy-comfyfit-baby-carrier
- https://babytula.com.au/
- Pram (again, try them out. We went Joolz Hub for the single and the Valco Snap Duo for the double)
- Velcro swaddles and knotted gowns
- Highly recommend a rubber changing pad for easy wipe down

Hospital bag
- Period underwear a few sizes up from your normal (I did Modibodi, https://www.modibodi.com/collections/french-cut, nicer than disposable mesh undies but doesn't matter if they get bloody)
- Tom Organic Maternity pads (softer than the other brands)
- Medela hydrogel pads https://www.medela.com/breastfeeding/products/breast-care/hydrogel-pads
- Comfortable nursing bras (I'd suggest the soft pull aside ones for the first week - https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0813BXPBG/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_1ZQJMH5TJER6R806BK9X) / breastfeeding friendly PJs (or robe - some new mums prefer that with nothing underneath) if planning to breastfeed
- Peri bottle (for vaginal delivery)
- nappies, wipes, vasoline (for the meconium - easier nappy clean up)
- clothes for you/baby to wear home
-lip balm
- sleep mask
- water bottle
- travel toothbrush/paste kit, deodorant, hairband etc.
- any regular medications
- thongs/slippers
- stool softener
- phone charger (long cord since the PowerPoint might be far away)
- snacks

Love Steph, Adam, Asher and Ronan

“I found Nancy's support crucial to being able to react to my partner's needs.” - says Dad.

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Isabel

I felt instantly supported when I first talked to Nancy over the phone as she was so attentive to my birth plan and wanted to help in any way she could. She was also so positive about our birth journey and I really needed that since my first baby's birth was traumatic. Thank you for being our Doula Nancy! :)

We chose you because you wanted to support us as a family and that really meant a lot to us. You have a way of communicating that is very nurturing way that I found really helpful. Given that my first baby's birth was traumatic, you made me believe I could have a positive birth experience.

I also really loved how the post partum sessions were tailored to my requests. I was always so excited to see what you could cook up for us in the thermomix and spend some time chatting:)

Antenatal sessions were really special as I had a chance to connect with you, my baby and my husband in preparation for our labour journey. I loved the affirmation cards and the time spent to connect with Geoff as we embarked on this journey.

Nancy, you gave me a massage post partum which was amazing! I felt calm and relaxed during the massage and she was very attentive to my comfort level. Infant massage information was really great as well.

What was the most helpful thing I did to support you?: You helped empower me to take control of my baby's birth and to be an active participant equipped with evidence based resources.

What did you find to be the most helpful things to you in labour? : Vocalising and mental focus to be strong and empowered. I needed someone to talk me through the contractions and you helped me a lot with that Nancy.

Words of wisdom: The Birth journey is a unique journey filled with so many emotions form the highest of highs ti the lowest of lows. Nothing will ever really prepare you for your journey, but some words of wisdom would be to accept that things will not go according to your plan and you have to adapt in the moment. Also be prepared as much as you can with knowledge about your birth options. For example active birth, explore home birth, birth centres and Midwife programs at the hospital.

Practitioners/websites/podcasts/groups you loved: I love the Australian birth stories podcast. This helped prepare me for my second baby's birth after a traumatic first birth. The work of Rachael Reed was also very informative.

Words from dad:

As the primary support for my pregnant wife it can be difficult to know what is helpful and what is hindering in the moment. I found Nancy's support crucial to being able to react to my partner's needs. Nancy always kept me included in the journey, and I found it easier to fulfill my role in our pregnancy and birth. Our birth would not have been the same without Nancy. I never felt removed from the journey, but empowered to provide the support I could.

Nancy made herself available to us at all times during labour. She was able to effectively communicate with us when we had low sleep, and had to make difficult decisions. Nancy's advice was proven to be correct many times during our pregnancy and birth. Her wealth of experience was invaluable.

When we ended up in an emergency C section Nancy stayed with me all the way until I could reunite my daughter with my wife. This was a particularly difficult time which was made bearable by having Nancy at my side.

I honestly believe Nancy's support made our pregnancy and birth a thriving experience, rather than just surviving it. Our outlook was positively transformed throughout the journey.

I would be happy to recommend Nancy to any pregnant couple. I felt the care far surpasses a private hospital.

Love Melissa, Geoff, Eli & Isabel

I probably would have benefited from more postpartum care.

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Nancy was such a beautiful presence at our birth. She was so supportive and helped my husband and I stay calm and centered in a birth that didn’t necessarily go to “plan”. Before the birth we had so much fun in our birth prep sessions with her, not to mention the delicious pregnancy massages she gave me in the comfort of my home. I have to say that the real highlight for me was the postnatal visit. After a few days of being in a busy hospital it was SO refreshing to have a visit from Nancy, who did a meditation with us and helped me to feel human again. Thank you so much, Nancy. You are such a genuine, honest and grounded woman and we’re so happy you were a part of our journey xoxo

I choose you to be our doula because we formed a lovely initial connection and I felt safe in your care. Emma Hayes referred you and highly recommended you. I feel that your energy matched mine and that you had a beautiful, calming presence.

I really loved the prenatal massages I received. I felt a bit worried when I found out Sofia wasn't growing and the massaged helped to bring my nervous system back into a state of balance.

I probably would have benefited from more postpartum care. This is something for me to think about if we have another baby. I got so much out of you coming to the hospital once Sofia was born, I would have liked more sessions like that.

What is the most memorable moment of our time together?: Yes! One thing that really stands out to me is when a Dr was trying to (very unsuccessfully) break my waters and I was in a lot of pain, you reminded me that I have a choice and that I can choose to ask him to stop the procedure. It was at that moment that I feel I got my power back, if you weren't there I probably would have kept putting up with him telling me to "relax" and trying to achieve his goal.

What was the most helpful thing I did to support you? Reminded me that I am allowed to birth on my terms.

What did you find to be the most helpful things to you in labour? The yoga we did in the park and the movement that you were encouraging me to do whilst I had the syntocinon drip in. I also appreciated you chatting to the midwives and making my wishes heard.

Dad says: Nancy helped us navigate the hospital system and was a calming presence throughout our time in hospital. She was always informing us of the options we had and also helped to get us out of the hospital and moving around in the fresh air after a few induction attempts that weren't really working. Nancy was generous with her time and always made us feel safe and supported.

If you were to share words of wisdom with a first time family preparing for labour, birth & bringing their baby home, what would it be?: The birth of your baby is a life-changing event, and it is so important to be prepared for it, but don't forget about The Fourth Trimester. It is so important to prepare for the birth of you as a mother/ parent and think about what it is that you really need to support you at such a fragile time of deep transformation. Having nourishing food, cooked by loved ones and having a 'fourth trimester' plan, can be just as important as having a birth plan. 

Also, remember that you know what is best for your baby, so try not to get swept up in everyone else's advice and instead try to listen to your inner wisdom.

Would you like to rave about any practitioners/websites/podcasts/groups you used during your pregnancy or postpartum to other families?: 

Our Family Chiropractic Cronulla

Really helped with my postnatal recovery and overall wellbeing.

Tales From The Fourth Trimester podcast

The Mother Space Podcast (my podcast)

Maternal Instincts Massage

Angela is amazing.

xxx Annalisa, Luke and Sofia

It felt like we had a pro in our corner that had our back.

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We are so happy that we chose to use a doula, and really grateful that Nancy was our Doula. The stresses and unknowns you hear about during a birth weren't really present during our birth because we always knew that Nancy was there to support us, provide guidance and help to interpret what was going on and being said.

In the lead up to the birth Nancy was full of useful information and recommended some great resources to assist in preparing for the big day and making decisions about how we would proceed for each scenario. This made handling the uncertainty about when and how it would come quite easy to handle - it felt like we had a pro in our corner that had our back whatever may come. Nancy's approach is casual and laidback yet 'on to it' which was reassuring and easy to slot into our little birth team.

Nancy was even a pillar of support during an ECV (attempt to turn the baby) prior to the birth, which was a truly painful and disappointing procedure but made easier through Nancy's instincts and insights towards my welfare and mind state.

Now we have a happy little new member of our family and we continue to share updates with Nancy and reach out to her for tips on baby stuff.

We couldn't be happier with our decision to have Nancy as part of our Birth Tribe.

Love Laura, Duncan & baby Juniper

We really can't picture going through the birthing experience without Nancy as our doula.

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We really can't picture going through the birthing experience without Nancy as our doula. We wanted a natural birth, so Nancy's SheBirth's background and experience helped us immensely in preparing for this, using active and calm birthing techniques including yoga, massage and breathing. She helped us prepare mentally as a couple for what to expect and how to deal with all different situations that may occur on the day.

This helped us through a three-day labour, which resulted in the vaginal delivery we were hoping for, and we couldn't have done it without Nancy's constant care and support before during and after the birth. We loved the chance to de-brief about the birth with someone that was there to clarify what happened and reassure us that we made good decisions on the day. I would highly recommend Nancy as a doula for anyone.

Dear Nancy, I vividly remember spending time together during the prenatal appointments and laughing/talking about our ideal birth over Tim's pumpkin risotto. Every moment we spent together was always warm and inviting and we loved having you in our home. You listened to us and got to know us thoroughly. You helped us start the conversations between us that helped us decide what kind of birth experience we wanted and how we were going to approach it together on the day. You made us feel that whatever decisions we made, that they were right for us.

Words from dad:

I just felt that it was so great to have another person there for Alex in case I needed to leave the room for food/bathroom etc. I really thought it was great to have that extra support on the day and prior to bounce ideas off and to I felt like you were always there to ask questions at any time.

The most helpful things in labour were: 

  • TENS!

  • Mantras, reminding us of those throughout the day.

  • Helping to focus on breathing.

  • Helping us feel relaxed and at home in the birthing suite, because you felt relaxed in that space and already knew it so well.

  • You lending us the TENS, candles and fairy lights so we didn't have to buy that stuff for the 1 day.

Words of wisdom for a family preparing for labour, birth & bringing their baby home:

Towels! Haha - no - Hire a Doula! Or better yet, Hire Nancy if you are so lucky to get the chance.

Educate yourselves, it takes away the fear of the unknown.

Would you like to rave about any practitioners/websites/podcasts/groups you used during your pregnancy or postpartum to other families?:

  • Podcasts: ABC baby talk, Fear free childbirth

  • SheBirths

  • Ina May Gaskin books

Would you recommend me?: Yes

Overall Satisfaction: 10 out of 10! You exceeded our expectations in every way to help us achieve a positive and fulfilling birth experience.

Love Alex, Tim & baby Elodie

We were blown away by the positive impact that Nancy had on our birth.

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We couldn't recommend Nancy highly enough. Although we understood before booking Nancy that the role of a doula was to support us during pregnancy and labour, we were blown away by the positive impact that Nancy had on our birth. I have no doubt that had Nancy not been there, the labour would not have been nearly as relaxed or successful. Nancy helped me achieve my goal of a natural delivery without chemical pain relief. Her role was protective and I really felt safe in her hands throughout the whole process. She had amazing knowledge of both pregnancy, labour and the postnatal period and her ideas and suggestions were practical and achievable. I feel very blessed that she was by our side on one of the most important days of our lives and would not hesitate to recommend her as a doula.

Dear Nancy, my most memorable moment was when I began to doubt that I could get the baby out and you reminded me that it was not my previous labour. It re-booted my thought process and gave me a positive boost to keep going. 

I think that the most helpful thing you did to support me was to believe in me and remind me to believe in myself.

The pregnancy massages that you gave me were amazing and helped me manage quite debilitating hip and pelvic pain towards the end. You were very thorough in your assessment prior to the massage which I liked and you had an extensive knowledge of the body and massage techniques. You put me at ease and made me feel relaxed. I also thought it was a great service that you came to my home.

The most helpful things in labour were: 

  • Definitely the TENS machine- it was such a blessing and I am so thankful that you recommended it. 

  • Your suggestion to change positions from time to time also really helped as did the transition into the water. 

  • I also felt that I used breathing more effectively this delivery thanks to your guidance.

  • I found hypnobirthing cd very helpful again to get into birthing zone. 

Do you feel that you got value for money? Do the fees reflect the service you received?: To be totally honest, the cost initially looked very high and although we could appreciate why (on-call periods etc) we did have to weigh up if financially we could afford to book you. However, both Percy and I have said on multiple occasions since that it was the best money we have ever invested and that we do not regret it one bit. You never failed to deliver in any aspect of your service.

Words of wisdom: Organise things as much as possible for after the birth to help such as freezing meals, organising a cleaner etc.

- Liz, Percy & baby Elise

My birth was a dream come true!

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Nancy, my birth was a dream come true and we owe a massive part of that to the knowledge and support you provided us and for the confidence you had in us. You go above and beyond Nancy!

Having Nancy with us during our labour removed all fear and any doubts. It gave us the opportunity to not worry about anything because we felt assured that with her abundant knowledge we were in safe hands. Having a fearless birth meant that we were able to labour without worry and achieve the outcome we wanted most. 
It also gave my partner and I the space to be more connected and present with each other because we knew we could rely on Nancy's support and knew all our questions would be answered if anything came up. 

It was the best investment we could have made! It made my first birth experience so incredible and what more could you ask for?!

I feel completely and utterly satisfied with Nancy as our doula!!!

My most memorable moments are:

  • getting to the hospital to find out I was fully dilated AND

  • being in the bath in the candle light with Marcelo and Nancy by my side with the beautiful music playing and reaching down to feel Uma's little slimey hairy head!

The most helpful things Nancy did were:

  • showing me how much faith and confidence she had in me to achieve the birth I wanted

  • held my legs in the bath

  • helped out with info etc in the post labour part when I had a bleed

The most helpful things to me in labour were:

  • My partner

  • Tens 

  • Hot water 

  • Heat pack

  • Encouraging words 

  • Breath

If you were to share words of wisdom with a first time family preparing for labour, birth & bringing their baby home, what would it be?: Trust that your body is made to do this. Make sure you are fully informed and sure about the birth you want to have. Breath!!!! Stay calm and (if you can afford it) definitely get a doula!

Love Nicky, Marcelo & baby Uma