Oh hey, you beautiful birthing babe!
Being pregnant can be super overwhelming. I get it, I’ve been there! Your body is changing, you’re emotional, tired, nauseous, uncomfortable, and then you have to take in all this information and make huge decisions about how you’re going to get your baby from the safe haven of your womb to the outside world. It’s a lot to handle!
That’s where I come in! I like to think I know a fair bit about pregnancy and birth (I’m a little bit obsessed), and I’ve been through it myself, so I’m here to be by your side and help you navigate this journey. It doesn’t matter whether you’re having a home water birth, a hospital birth, a scheduled C-section, or anything in between – I’m here to help you make informed decisions, know your rights, plan for your dream birth, as well as lots of other possible scenarios (because we know how unpredictable birth can be), and be strong and empowered enough to make sure no one f*cks with you!
In addition to my standard package inclusions, I’m here to give you whatever additional support you need, whether that’s coming to your hospital appointments with you, doing additional research on specific options, taking you out for some down time, listening to you vent about whatever is on your mind, helping out with your older kids, walking your dog, whatever you need! From the moment our relationship is established, I’m always there for you via text/phone call for anything you need.
Whatever happens along the way, whatever curveballs you may be thrown, I’ll be right by your side to help you work through it. If you lose your shit at any point, that’s okay! I’ll help you find it again. Whatever happens, I’ve got your back, babe. We’re in this together ❤️
Pregnancy Support
I truly believe there is nothing more beautiful than a big ol’ preggo belly! Pregnancy is magical, but it’s challenging too. You might be having the most beautiful, relaxed pregnancy, or you might be really sick and uncomfortable. Whatever your journey looks like, I’m here for you.
From the very beginning of our relationship, our conversations will be deeper than just discussing your baby shower or how big your bump is getting. I want to know what you’re excited about, what lights you up, your absolute dream birth, your previous births (if applicable), what you’re scared of, what you’re unsure about, and anything in between. Tell me about the little things and the big things. The fun stuff and the tough stuff. When you’re having a great day and when you’re having a terrible day.
We’re going to get to know each other and build a beautiful relationship, so that when your birthing day comes, you feel so supported and strong AF with me by your side.
Throughout your pregnancy, we’ll go on a series of dates (way better than Tinder dates, I promise!) and keep in touch via text in between. Meme exchange is highly encouraged! On these dates, we’ll get to know each other, talk about all the feels you’re experiencing, discuss how we can bring your dream birth to life, and work through any curveballs or alternative options.
I can also be there for practical support if you need it. If you’re tired AF and need a nap but you have older kids who need snacks and playing with, I can help. If you have housework that needs doing but you’re too sore and tired, I can help. If you’re suffering from HG or are on bed rest, I can come to you and offer gentle love and support.
Every pregnancy is SO different, so I’m here to adapt to whatever it is that you need. I can’t wait to be by your side on this magical journey!
Postpartum Support
Your baby is finally here in your arms! The first few weeks postpartum are a magical time, but also an emotional rollercoaster. You’ll feel literally every emotion under the sun, and even though it’s completely normal, it can still be challenging to navigate, along with caring for a brand new baby.
I promise, postpartum doesn’t have to be weeks upon weeks of crying, never showering, living off coffee, feeling like your nipples are about to fall off, and being constantly covered in a layer of baby spew. With the right support, you can start your parenthood journey on a positive note, form a beautiful bond with your baby, nurture your relationship with your partner (if you have one) as you embark on this adventure, and, most importantly, lean into your rebirth and get to know your new identity as a parent.
Every parent, every baby, every birth, and every postpartum is different, so the ways in which I support you through postpartum will be completely tailored to you and your family.
I will come and visit you at home once a week for the first 6 weeks postpartum (or thereabouts – as I said, everyone is different), and give you whatever support you need, sometimes even before you know you need it.
Some examples of the ways I can support you in your postpartum period include:
– Debriefing your birth and helping you process any feelings that are coming up for you.
– Helping with feeding your baby, whether that’s from the breast or bottle.
– Offering newborn care guidance and support, from safe sleeping (including co-sleeping/bed sharing) to bathing your baby, nappy changes to swaddling.
– Snuggling your baby for a little while so you can nap or spend some time with your older child/ren.
– Playing with your older child/ren while you have a nap with your new baby.
– Helping out with housework so you can relax and bond with your baby.
– Taking you out for a walk, coffee, or pampering session if you’d like to get out of the house.
– Spending time with you, just hanging out. Postpartum can be isolating, so it’s important to have adult interaction!
– Driving you to appointments or to run errands if you’ve had a C-section and can’t drive for a few weeks.
Every postpartum is unique, so I will be there for you in the ways you need me to be there. Postpartum doula support does not come with a checklist of items to tick off – we write our own list along the way.
Lauren McLeod // Perth Doula 