I used to be incredibly naive. I was brought up to believe that our leaders, even if we didn't agree with their particular brand of political philosophy, generally had our best interests at heart. Us, the people, were their top priority. Within that mindset came the belief that rules, laws and Continue Reading
Men, Love and Birth…and a few giggles
Before we start this review, a small disclaimer is probably necessary. I know Mark Harris, the author of this new book on birth and, after a couple of years of online interaction, some lovely chinwags on the phone and a few real world hugs, I would consider him a mate. Still, I hope I'd be a good Continue Reading
The Who’s Who of Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding mums can have a variety of people rock up to help in the early days - and in my experience, many parents can be pretty confused as to who's who and what experience and qualifications they have. This seems like a massive shame to me - personally, if I wanted to learn Italian, I'd want Continue Reading
Gentle Birth Companions, 2nd Edition: A Review
I am ashamed at how long it's taken me to start writing this review. My head space and time has been taken up with the publication of my own book on doulas, so I come to this later than I wanted. I have to start by being transparent. This probably won't be the most objective review you ever read. Continue Reading
The Roar Behind The Silence, edited by Soo Downe and Sheena Byrom
When I first discovered Sheena Byrom, I had no idea she was the midwifery queen of Twitter, passionate and expert in bringing mothers, midwives and all interested in maternity care together to debate, share and raise their voices in unison. She was the author of 'Catching Babies', a life story of a Continue Reading
Feminist Birth and Motherhood Musings
We identify as feminist birthworkers. The posts on this website in the catagory, 'Feminism' are written by doulas, midwives and other birthworkers about feminist issues in general and specifically about how sexual politics intersects with our work with new parents. We have a facebook discussion Continue Reading
Books, Links and Resources
Reading, researching, learning and sharing.... I'll be adding in titles of books that may be useful here and links to their websites, if possible. The Food of Love' and 'Bump', by Kate Evans http://www.thefoodoflove.org/ Weblinks Breastfeeding Links Coping with Continue Reading
Heather’s Story
I am currently pursuing a career in primary care and midwifery in large part because of my experiences with tongue-tie and breastfeeding. In my future practice, I want to be like the one person who finally helped me and my son. My son was born by c-section (he was breech at the last minute) and I Continue Reading
Planning a Wedding
This is a guest blog post from my dear, imaginary friend Janet. She wrote me a letter recently with the happy news that she is expecting to get married in the spring. It is copied here verbatim. "Dear Maddie, It was so nice to hear all your news! I'm well too and I have some good news for you - Continue Reading
RCM Reports new Doula UK Initiative
During World Doula Week, a new doula initiative is announced. Reported here by the Royal College of Midwives - doulas are working to provide support to those most in need. http://www.rcm.org.uk/midwives/news/new-doula-initiative-is-announced/ Continue Reading