Birth

It’s the kind of topic that almost no one is talking about! However the majority of women who have recently given birth are seeking advice and guidance on how to help their sensitive bits heal up after the main event. We talk about stretch marks, chapped nipples, engorged breasts and sleepless nights, but not the zone that has undergone the brunt of the “labour” and delivered our angels earthside. So I’m going to do it, I’m going to go there! 

Growing up as an athlete, the importance of being hydrated for competition was always emphasized. So I wasn’t that surprised when my midwives began to talk with me of the importance of being hydrated through labour. I mean, giving birth really is an athletic, marathon endeavor! Having experienced it twice now I can attest to its physically draining nature and need to maintain a “performance state” for a long period of time!

Assisting women give birth without fear is just one of many things that is part of being a doula. It’s also one of the reasons Cara Bjornson was intrigued. The mother of two just completed her doula training. 

Bjornson is from Duncan, B.C. We chatted with her to learn more about what it takes to become a doula. 

Are you considering engaging a midwife as your primary care provider during your pregnancy? You wouldn't be alone! 

The latest stats showed midwife assisted births accounted for 9% of all births in Canada in 2014 and an astounding 275,000 births with midwives since midwifery became regulated in the 1990s.