[ozmidwifery] Community based information

[Tim & Rochelle]

Hello, I agree that birth education should be largely and widely available in the community and that the content of the hospital classes needs some serious revision. When having my first baby over 3 years ago, we did both. We started hospital classes, but quickly realised these were not suiting our needs and that much of the information was necessary for the type of birth we didn't want. Although birthing in a regional hospital with an ob we sought the support of a private childbirth educator for both the birth and a few sessions for us prior to ask all the questions they won't answer in the hospital classes. I think I gave up the hospital classes after the first 2. But I do agree it is something most first time mums feel compelled or expected to attend. Since moving to Perth over a year ago I have started a community based support group for pregnant women and new parents, we meet twice a month for a cuppa and a chat. Whilst I do find many women come mostly for the social aspect and I would happily sit and talk about the nitty gritty of birth and birth options, I do feel that these women benefit in that if they do have a question that is not being heard in the mainstream arena then they can bounce it around our group and we will as Jodie suggested do our best to provide answers, research or direct them to where they might find one. Whilst none of us are childbirth educators, many of us are mums with an array of birthing experiences and we also have a number of local doulas that come along. We have also had a couple of midwives pop in for a cuppa (hello Mary & Jo) and at the end of the day we are sharing valuable experiences, support and information, best of all we are all still there once we've had our babies and can continue to offer postnatal and parenting support in the form of friendship. For me it is about connecting with others in the community. I began the group because it was the sort of thing I was looking for but there was nothing running at the time. I was able to tap into some Local Government money to cover our room hire costs, so it costs the women nothing. I have since birthed our second bubba at home with the Community Midwifery Program WA, and wish all women had access to this type of amazing care. (again hello Mary) Just want to also say a quick thankyou to all on the list I have learnt so much in the last 3 years. Cheers Rochelle.