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The Centre Midwifery

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25.01.2022 Welcome Home Baby Sophie Babies choice birth..... Sometimes plans to birth at home can change when baby arrives earlier then expected this doesn't mean that your preferences or decision making is gone. ... Congratulations to mum and dad who worked through the early arrival of their beautiful baby girl, well supported, space protected. Lots of skin to skin and cuddles supported breastfeeding and milk production. This week Baby Sophie was welcomed home Doing so well, beautiful family of 3 xx

25.01.2022 Appreciation Post Thank you to the lovely women who are so kind and understanding when we need to reschedule their appointments. Birth is unpredictable, which means sometimes having to reschedule antenatal or postnatal appointments last minute. ... By supporting us and being flexible, you are helping us to support other amazing women during their transformative birth We were honoured to spend last evening and night with Taylah and Josh who birthed the most gorgeous little man, Beau in the early hours of this morning at home. Congratulations Taylah! Your strength, courage and self belief was absolutely extraordinary! It was absolutely magical to share your birth space with you. Once again, thank you to everyone for your kindness, support and understanding! You are all amazing

25.01.2022 OXYTOCIN FLOWING So much love and respect for this amazing couple who worked together so well through their labour and birth This hypnobirthing mumma listened to her body through all the stages of labour. ... Early labour stopped and started over some time (normal) as mum worked through early surges she walked, watched movies, cleaned and was in active positions throughout the early stages. Sometimes baby's position causes labour to go a little longer - mum had her mindset prepared for this variation of normal and was patient, allowing her body and baby to work together. Mum used hypnobirthing techniques, upright and active positioning, warm water and continuous loving support from her partner And what a reward!!! Well done MUM, DAD and BABY! Perfect circle of love

24.01.2022 Two recent hypnobirthing mummas share the same estimated day to birth One mumma has had her journey already, welcome earthside little one The other we are patiently awaiting the arrival of with positive anticipation ... We are all different, and our babies grow and develop at different times. A "due date" is a guess date. Don't put pressure on yourself and your baby if you reach that date and are still pregnant. Babies will come when they are ready xx

24.01.2022 Taking enrollments for August and September Hypnobirthing Group Classes. Prepare for a positive and empowered birthing experience. Gain knowledge skills and confidence around labour and birth. ... Make informed choices for your pregnancy and birth. Contact The Centre Midwifery to find out more.

24.01.2022 Antenatal expressing Did you know that your body starts making colostrum during your pregnancy, as early as 16weeks? You can start antenatal hand expressing from around 37 weeks gestation to prepare for breastfeeding... Benefits include: Becoming familiar with expressing, shaping and handling your breasts Nipple stimulation promotes the hormone oxytocin, which starts both labour and lactation changes Have some colostrum stored away to use when baby is born if needed Tips for antenatal hand expressing: Relax- it doesn't matter if there is nothing coming out, you can benefit from nipple stimulation and try again later Try expressing after a warm bath or shower It shouldn't hurt! If you are feeling and pain, stop and ask your midwife to show you at the next visit Think of your baby while expressing Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water Store your colostrum in the freezer until needed

24.01.2022 Weekend reflection This weekend I was privileged to both provide information sharing to expecting mums using hypnobirthing! AND support a new mum in her transformative birth experience as she worked through her birth journey, well supported, loved and space protected. Body is tired, Heart is Full

24.01.2022 So special women teaching women, teaching their daughters about pregnancy and birth, even from such a young age. A midwife can learn just as much from a woman as a woman can learn from a midwife. You just have to listen! Women are the experts of their own body and baby "My Little Midwife ... Almost 40 Weeks & Ready For My Mini to Help Welcome Our New Baby into The World " See more

22.01.2022 Undisturbed first few hours after birth. Respect the space x Baby is placed on Mum's chest with a warm blanket to keep mum and bub warm. This slows the production of adrenaline and prevents interfering with oxytocin and prolactin (hormones for bonding and breastfeeding)... Keep the environment calm, quiet and warm. The woman is still in labour as the placenta still needs to be birthed x

22.01.2022 Amy's Journey Breastfeeding my youngest baby boy Jack was a struggle at first, he was born at 30+5 weeks which means he had a lot of complications being so early, one of them being they dont get a sucking reflex until 34 weeks so every 3 hours for 4 weeks I pumped exclusively and he got fed my breastmilk through his tube. At 34 weeks I got to start seeing if he would latch. I already new I had a great supply as I breastfed my other 2 children for 18 and 16 months. I onl...y got to start with 1 breastfeed a day which was so hard, because jack was born in Sydney and I had two other babies at home I came home for the weekend when jack was 34+3 weeks (4 ish weeks) he had a few bottles of my expressed breast milk from the nurses while I was back in Dubbo. Once jack learnt how to breastfeed he was a pro. Now his 5 months old and we are still breastfeeding and not looking at stopping anytime soon, its a beautiful way to bond with your baby and I love it. This is a picture of jack and I with his first ever breastfeed at 4 weeks old

22.01.2022 Tree Of Life This beauty is the only organ our bodies grow and then expel after its use The placenta provides your baby with blood, oxygen and nutrients for growth and development. It also removes waste products... As you can see the blood vessels form the shape of a tree that has been a life source to your baby... Hence the name tree of life. There are many things you can do with your placenta, after all it is yours! Keep it, plant it, print art with it, encapsulate it, the choice is yours.. If nothing else at least have a look at it, take a photo and acknowledge how incredible your body is

21.01.2022 Congratulations to Kathryn, who is now an Endorsed Midwife working for The Centre Midwifery, and we could not have dreamt of a greater addition to the team. A warm welcome. This is a massive achievement that takes years of study, learning, self reflection, and of course being with woman. This is also a great achievement for Dubbo to now have 2 Endorsed midwives in private practice! Kathryn is a wife, a mother of 3, and a 'with woman midwife', soft and gentle but strong and ...fierce. She holds the space for women gracefully and values pregnancy, birth and postnatal as the transformative life experiences that they are. This means that The Centre Midwifery can now support, empower and advocate for MORE women and their families in Dubbo and the surrounding towns. If you are wanting continuity of midwifery care, antenatal care, postnatal care, home birth, or doula birth support services get in touch with Rachel and Kathryn at The Centre Midwifery

21.01.2022 What a beautiful day to teach Hypnobirthing!! Awaiting some amazing pregnant mums and their birth support people who are invested in a calm and positive birth experience. Hypnobirthing Group course dates for the remainder of 2020 are:... 28th and 29th November (one enrolment available) 12th and 13th December (one enrolment available) Secure your place today by contacting The Centre Midwifery via email, Facebook or phone

21.01.2022 "A woman in birth is at once her most powerful, and her most vulnerable. But any woman who has birthed unhindered understands that we are stronger then we know" Marci Macari. Sammy's Birth . ...Continue reading

21.01.2022 Today I had the privilege of being in the same room as 17 privately practicing homebirth midwives from NSW All refreshing and updating our skills in emergencies and resuscitation. What a wealth of knowledge in one room A big thank you to RHW Melbourne and Nepean Hospital for generously supporting midwives in private practice to maintain our annual competencies

20.01.2022 Happy Mother's Day To the mums who have grown and birthed babies To the mums who have lost babies... To the mums who desire a baby To the mums who have fostered or adopted babies Wherever you are in your journey- be blessed today xx

20.01.2022 Reminder For scheduled appointments at The Centre Midwifery, don't forget we have moved to 147 Bourke street Dubbo. Looking forward to seeing you there

20.01.2022 - No one is a better expert of your body and your baby then you are - Yes Midwives, doctors and nurses all have additional training and education and can provide you with information, share knowledge and resources, explain risks and benefits........... BUT - At the end of the day, the decision is yours ... - Don't surrender your power, autonomy or decision making ability just because you are having or have had a baby. This is the time you need to exercise it the most

19.01.2022 Stacey's Journey 467 days of breastfeeding Breastfeeding has been the most challenging but also the most rewarding thing Ive ever done in my life. ... After the birth of Aldo I was so incredibly exhausted. A long traumatic labour took its toll but despite this I managed to feed within the first hour. The attachment was poor which led to blisters and painful feeding. I turned to a nipple shield and it saved our breastfeeding journey. The next challenge was weaning him back off the shield and onto the nipple which took some time for us to readjust. Over the past 15 months we have overcome mastitis x3, oral thrush/nipple thrush, oversupply in the early days-I would often leave Aldo covered in milk and gasping for breath. The next challenge was teeth. He now has a mouth full of teeth and we are still going strong! My favourite part of breastfeeding are the milky cuddles after a feed. In the early days I would feed him and let him fall asleep on the breast and just cuddle him for hours. My husband has been so supportive the whole way along and I cant thank him enough for that. Since Aldo has turned 1 Ive found a whole new element of breastfeeding that I love. Aldo and I now use it as a way to connect and have fun together with him latching on whenever he gets the chance with a cheeky little grin on his face. The word milk is his favourite word! He comes running when he hears it with excited giggles. I am so amazed and proud of my body. Not only did I grow my baby for 9+ months, I literally sustained him with my body for a further 6+ months! How incredible is the womans body! Im trying to learn to love my body and myself as my child sees me, double chins and all because I am a woman and we are amazing!

19.01.2022 EXCITING NEWS!!!! Women birthing at Dubbo Hospital can now have 2x Support people during birth! Thank you to all the wonderful women, partners, birth workers and members of the community who took the time to write in to both local level and state level organisations.... Tag an expectant mum who will be happy with this news

19.01.2022 What a beautiful day to have a baby This little man decided to arrive on his estimated date to birth Well done to this strong and courageous VBAC mum and birth partner - what a team ... Here is what they have to say about their experience: "We can not recommend Rach highly enough. Not only is Rach a lovely person she is extremely knowledgeable. I was lucky enough to have pre natal coaching with Rach which really set us up for a fabulous experience. I really encourage all mums to be, to touch base with Rach and be armed with the knowledge she imparts. On the back of an emergency caesarean with our first child, we decided to also engage Rach for our labour and post natal care. Rachs calming presence, knowledge, consistency, techniques and advocacy for our wishes ensured we had the most beautiful natural experience with our second child Henry. I cant wait to do it all again. We also cant thank Rach enough for the post natal support meaning we could come home earlier and enjoy our little family of 4. We live in remote part of NSW knowing that we had Rach as support pre and post birth was extremely reassuring."

19.01.2022 The Healing Birth of Poppy "Although my first birth was not the birth I wanted, it was the birth I needed to have...It enabled me to trust my body and myself, recognise my strength and determination and gave me the courage to look at alternative approaches that would prepare us for an empowering second birth. Rach at The Centre Midwifery became our amazing hypnobirthing coach, our independent midwife/ doula that provided us with continuity of care and 24/7 support, she is a... wealth of knowledge who we enjoyed endless conversation and information sharing. Rach was my number one cheerleader for achieving the birth I wished for, and has become a special friend to our family. Rach is a total inspiration. Her knowledge, passion and approach to birth and empowering women is infectious. Our birth was calm and peaceful. Our birth space was filled with positive energy, candle light and encouraging affirmations - it was safe, happy and full of smiling faces. Our learnt hypnobirthing techniques, knowledge and practice enabled me to stay completely calm and in control. Our birth preferences were respected and the connection between myself and my partner during the birth was amazing, as he was completely on board with our wishes and desire for an intervention and drug free birth. For the 9 months of the pregnancy; practicing meditations, light touch massage, discussing our preferences and distinguishing our fears, reciting affirmations, researching, reading and listening to and learning from other VBAC success stories played a huge role in our birth preparation as a couple. The incredible birthing experience we achieved under the care of Rach is something that has changed me as a person. I feel healed, proud and empowered. I am still full of adrenaline and completely in awe of my body. Birth is personal and all people choose to approach birth differently, however I am so pleased that I experienced the hypnobirthing approach and found The Centre Midwifery. Our new baby girl is so content and I strongly believe the calmness that we practiced whilst I was pregnant and the beautiful birth experience we achieved is the reason for her calm nature. I’ll miss seeing rach. She has inspired me to continue to learn about birth and study in this field. I could go on and on about the things I’ve learned and have to stop myself from telling strangers how incredible our birthing experience was. We can’t wait to do it all again! One of my favourite birthing affirmations was Where the mind goes, the body follows and this could not be more true for so many aspects of life. We will be forever grateful for Rach being such a positive part of our journey."

18.01.2022 Today is the first day of World Breastfeeding Week!! Each day I would love to share a woman's experience with breastfeeding. This may be a smooth experience or one more challenging one! Either way let's celebrate the different journeys and experiences that breastfeeding can unfold. ... Breastfeeding, expressing, cup feeding, syringe feeding, breastmilk in bottles, supply lines, doner milk.....I would love to hear your journey Message the page with a picture and a paragraph describing your journey. Can't wait to hear from you all xx

18.01.2022 Friends of the centre. How amazing is this video. We know this can help! For all our new followers... ... Kathryn is a midwife and part of The Centre Midwifery team, so make sure you follow her for more great tips. xx

17.01.2022 Welcome Earth side baby Jasper So excited to share this journey. Crystal and Mark sought out Doula services from the Centre Midwifery for the support and advocation of their birth choices.... In every process and decision they worked together as a team to make decisions They considered all information and evidence, making confident informed decisions They prepared for birth with affirmations, relaxation, knowledge and support They were faced with system challenges and pressures for early induction of labour, but trusted the process and carried Jasper for 42weeks The birth journey took a different path, but the birthing couple felt in control with their wishes being respected They had a voice in their birthing space and used it well Empowered Mum and Dad

17.01.2022 Breastfeeding snack ideas from @breastfeeding.dietian Include carbs, protein and healthy fats. So important to continue to nourish your body when breastfeeding and recovering after birth, while exposing baby to different tastes and flavours through breastmilk.... Foods that can increase lactation include barley, oats, whole wheat, brown rice, brewers yeast, chickpeas, turmeric, garlic, dill, fenugreek, asparagus, apricots, and papaya.

16.01.2022 Katja's Journey I am very happy to have been able to feed Eddie for 8 1/2mths before he went onto breastmilk bottles and formula (combo of biting and self weening). Even thought our target was a least 12mths. It took around 6 weeks before I could said breastfeeding became natural for us. ... I trialed nipple shields, creams and had so much support from my husband Ned as well as support from friends and family. My sister in laws boobie biscuits were incredible. I can say without doubt it was all 100% worth the tears, discomfort and heat! I am so great full that I had enough support to keep me going, at time it would have been easy to give us. So many women dont have the support they need. Just because breastfeeding is natural doesnt mean its easy. We need to give breastfeeding mums more support to meet their feeding goals and be open and honest about our journeys. The most helpful things I found was helping was being set up to feed, with a bottle of water and snacks. It seems small but are incredible in how much of an impact it had. Ned did an incredible job for the first few weeks getting up with me when bub woke. Just being with me, helping setting us up or even just his presence made a big difference! There are some great resources if you need help and support ie the podcast the boob group, the Australian Breastfeeding Association helpline 1800 MUM 2 MUM (1800 686 268) @australianbreastfeedingproject Happy World Breastfeeding Week! Picture by Snaps by Maddie Williams

16.01.2022 BIRTH STORY- from a Hypnobirthing mumma FIRST time mum "Mila was born 2 weeks ago and I could not have asked for a better experience, I felt prepared and ready for every step of the way and I believe my labour went quicker because of how calm and ready I was for each step. I laboured at home for around 5hrs, when my surges got to 1min apart for about 40min. I wanted to be checked and was 4-5cm really soft. I then got into the bath and spent the rest of my labour ther...e until I had to bear down, then for the birth I was in a comfortable position and in 2 more surges she was born! We had only been at the hospital for 3hrs 50min. I couldn't believe I did it, it was the most amazing experience, I still cannot believe what our bodies can do. I got to be the first person to pick up our baby girl! My Partner was such a great support and he also credits the time spent with you for being able to support me and be my voice in the middle of it all, we both felt EMPOWERED, EDUCATED and in CONTROL of OUR BIRTH and we cannot thank you enough Tay & Pete xx

15.01.2022 Home Visits I have always loved seeing women in their own home, it's always warm and friendly and relaxed, and nice for you not to have to wait in a waiting room. One of my favourite things though it to get family involved whether that be the birth partner feeling babies position and head or siblings helping find babies heart rate. ... Thank you to the gorgeous up and coming midwife that helped this morning Let's normalise pregnancy and birth by bringing it back home x

15.01.2022 6 Weeks I don't like the word goodbye, so we will use see you soon Thank you Jess, Matt and Freddie for being part of your journey.... The transition to parenthood is rocky, bumpy, overwhelming but ever so rewarding. Well done to you and your beautiful family what strength and love you have passed on to your little man. See you soon xx

15.01.2022 Gwynn's Journey Our son was born during breastfeeding week 2019, the only wish I had as a new mum was to be able to breastfeed our child. Our journey started rough, I was engorged and my son was unable to stay latched. I was determined to not give up and started using a breast pump with formula. On the 5th day of hospital a kind nurse noticed we were having trouble and offered me a shield after discovering I have flat nipples. As soon as I tried the shield our son latched on and we were finally successfully breastfeeding. I still remember that moment, I burst into tears and was overjoyed. Since then I have been treated for mastitis 5 times and no longer need a shield . Our son turns 1 this week, and I am so proud to say I am still breastfeeding him. I cherish each and ever day we continue to be able to and I wouldn't change a thing.

15.01.2022 Postnatal Care This can too often be a forgotten subject. When the birth is over and others life's return to normal there is a mum and bub at home still getting to know each other, learning to breastfeed, learning normal newborn behaviour and recovering from pregnancy and birth ... This can be an exhausting and challenging time where women need additional support. The Centre Midwifery offers postnatal visits in your home for up to 6 weeks post birth! Seeing the same midwife provides you with consistent advice and support avoiding conflicting and confusing information. Relationship building and information sharing for empowered early parenting.

15.01.2022 We have been a bit quiet on social media lately! They say midwives are always busy in September so why not add in some renovations September has brought us 3 beautiful babies , and also the birth of our new premise for The Centre Midwifery. Details to come........

15.01.2022 HAPPY BIRTHDAY The Centre Midwifery is one year old and we want you to celebrate with us on the 6th Feb 2021 at our new building 147 Bourke Street Dubbo. We welcome past, present and future clients as well as members of the community to celebrate this achievement!... Further details to come, but save the date February 6th 2021 for an incredible birthday celebration. HAPPY NEW YEAR!! The Massaging Midwife

14.01.2022 What would it mean to you to have your own midwife? To build a relationship To share information and knowledge between each other... To know you and your family To improve outcomes and experiences To feel seen, heard and understood Here is what it is like to have your own midwife "Thank you Rach for everything you do! You are one of a kind and our family are better off for having you as part of our journey. Not everything went to plan for this birth but not once did I feel out of control or overwhelmed because of the support Rach was able to provide. The reassuring smile, the calmness in her voice was enough to remind me to back myself, that I could do anything! Unfortunately due to COVID, Rach was unable to be at the hospital with me but she had enabled me with every tool I needed to be present and enjoy the birthing process which is not something I would ever have thought I'd say. I am a stronger mother and woman for having Rach support me during my pregnancy, birth and postnatal. The true testament of how much Rach becomes part of the family is the 6 weeks came and went and I went about living life with two kids, I missed her visits. Not because anything is wrong or I need a midwife but because she became part of our lives. Rach is genuine gem and I cannot recommend her enough! "

14.01.2022 Did you know that oxytocin the hormone needed to start labour and to continue labour is best support by Dark/Dim lighting Privacy... Quiet Feeling loved Feeling safe Feeling supported Physical contact Feeling unobserved Positive affirmations Protect your birthing space, make it your own

14.01.2022 Jody's Journey I have breastfed on a plane I have breastfed on a train I have fed him on the floor... I have fed him in the store I have breastfed in the sea I have fed him swinging in a tree I have fed him in the sun I have fed him on the run I have fed through blebs and mastitis, I have fed through running races I have fed him upside down It has turned his frown around I have fed through teething times I have fed through making rhymes I will feed him here and there I will feed him anywhere! I am so glad that my breastfeeding anniversary falls in World Breast Feeding Week; 2 years of feeding, comforting and nurturing my little man including 1 year of pumping at work. I think like most people I was very naive about breastfeeding prior to experiencing it. I assumed it was the norm, that there was lots of support, and formula feeding was the minority. I was absolutely blown away by the fact that only 4.2% of mothers are breastfeeding by 12 months (I could not find any Australian data for 24 months). I also did not understand the amazing science behind breastmilk and how it adapts constantly through bio-feedback. Nor how important co-sleeping would become to reduce the sleep deprivation of frequent feeding. The assumption that "breastfeeding must have been easy for you," minimises the struggles, challenges and sacrifices that most mothers make. That's why I love that there is a dedicated week of celebrating breastfeeding, a chance for mothers to tell their story and share their success, whilst being uplifted by others #normalisebreastfeeding #worldbreastfeedingweek #WBW2020

13.01.2022 Saturday information sharing If you have ever wondered what does a doula do, here is a great article explaining the what, why and how of Doula Birth Support Enjoy xx... https://evidencebasedbirth.com/the-evidence-for-doulas/ See more

12.01.2022 Continuity of Midwifery care! The Australian College of Midwives defines continuity of Midwifery care as: "Women who have had the same Midwife caring for them throughout pregnancy, labour, birth, and post birth who have the opportunity to build a trusting relationship which increases their confidence"... There are several benefits of continuity of Midwifery care including: Increased chance of normal birth and healthy well baby More likely to have a positive experience in labour and birth More likely to breastfeed Cost saving to the health care system More likely to be satisfied with maternity care

12.01.2022 Happy International Day of the Midwife 2020

11.01.2022 Coming soon to The Centre Midwifery The Massaging Midwife Specialising in Pregnancy and postnatal massage... Tag a pregnant mum who deserves a massage

11.01.2022 Mary's Journey My daughter is 12 months old, and we are currently still feeding with a view to continue until 2 years. She's an IVF bub, and our journey began a bit roughly. She was induced, and had a failed vaccum, small forceps delivery after 20 hours of labour. She was very headshy when coming out, and we had a lot of trouble with our initial latching due to her size and I had a flat nipple, but a wonderful midwife gave me a shield and it really made the difference. i ...also had retained placenta so my milk was a bit late coming in, so after her initial colostrum feed, she was formula fed for a few days, however we managed to be fully breastfed from two weeks after the surgery for removal. I had a bit of an oversupply from the shields, so was constantly dealing with blocked ducts. I was also advised by an IBCLC to pump for a stash, which I think contributed (the stash ended up expiring, and has been used for milk baths ever since ) We successfully weaned from the shields at 6 weeks, and haven't looked back, despite quite a few blebs, a vampire baby, and mastitis 3 times. I am glad we never gave up, I really enjoy breastfeeding. It's such grounding moment between myself and my daughter; a pause amongst the chaos of everyday. It's something I truly cherish. Due to a medical condition, there's always been question marks around whether I could even breastfeed, then it became a question if how long, and here we are still going strong See more

11.01.2022 Something isn't quite right with this!! Birthing women, birth partners,.and members of the community who care, I encourage you to write in to your local government to get the restrictions lifted for birth support. BASIC HUMAN RIGHTS IN CHILDBIRTH

10.01.2022 Your body knows how to grow a baby, the intricate details of the organs, bones, face, eyes, hair, even fingernails- and you haven't once had to provide instruction to your body to do this! In the same way your body knows how to birth- Without instruction or intervention

10.01.2022 EXCITING NEWS!!! Face to face classes for Hypnobirthing sessions can now resume Small class size (max 3 couples) and of course social distancing ... There is currently ONE SPACE LEFT FOR JUNE group class - dates are 20th and 21st June. Contact The Centre Midwifery on 0434833822 to secure your spot or email Rach at [email protected]

10.01.2022 Another new mum and dad have found their wings and are off A positive and supportive pregnancy and birthing experience has far reaching consequences for positive relationships, positive parenting and self confidence. Thank you for sharing the journey

09.01.2022 Do you know a mum who is in the postnatal period? Plan to do something to bless her and her family... Here are some ideas It doesn't take much to make someone else's day brighter, easier or even to let someone know you are thinking of them xx

08.01.2022 "There is power that comes to women when they give birth. They don't ask for it, it simply invades them. Accumulates like clouds on the horizon and passes through carrying the child with it" - Sheryl Feldmon. ...Continue reading

08.01.2022 Happy 6 weeks earth side for baby Ambrose and the Wakefield family It has been so beautiful to watch and support this family in the journey to welcome their little man born at home

07.01.2022 Here is the latest research on VBAC by Hazel Keedle. Did you know that your model of care may impact your birth? Choosing continuity of care (care from the same care provider through antenatal, birth and postnatal) from a midwife is proven to improve outcomes for women and their newborn ... Have you had a VBAC birth or planning for one? I would love to hear how you prepared or are preparing for your VBAC Additional resources in the comments xx https://medicalxpress.com//2020-07-women-birth-choices-mid

06.01.2022 We Love Student Midwives!! Welcome Bec! Bec is a 1st year Midwifery student who is working with The Centre Midwifery for the next two weeks. You will see Bec's smiling face at your up and coming appointment

06.01.2022 Don't be feared into an induction of labour by thinking your baby is "too big" There really isn't much difference in a babies weight comparing women who were induced or who waited for spontaneous labour Your body is designed to birth your baby. Your pelvis will open and accommodate, your babies soft bones in their head will mould to move through the pelvis. Our bodies and their abilities are amazing ... For more information on making informed decisions check out www.sarawickham.com

06.01.2022 Thank you to the people who are advocating for birth support restrictions to be lifted!! Your voice is being heard - keep going Thank you to the people who are advocating for birth support restrictions to be lifted!! Your voice is being heard - keep going

05.01.2022 Sarah's Journey Breastfeeding Clíodhna has been the most challenging but rewarding experience of my life. Before she was born I assumed that after a few days, maybe weeks it would all click into place and off wed go. I couldnt have been more wrong! Clío had reflux, a cows milk protein intolerance and a lazy latch and I had Postpartum Thyroid issues which caused low milk supply. (Did you know having a baby can make your thyroid go temporarily haywire? No, neither did I!...) It took around 3 months of literal blood, sweat and (so many) tears before it became natural for us. I used nipple shields, a tonne of Lansinoh cream, boxes and boxes of hydrogel discs, spoke with 5 lactation consultants, eliminated all dairy from my diet, pumped between feeds, took medication to increase my supply and spent hours crying on the phone to my beautiful mum about why it just isnt working and I can say without doubt it was all 100% worth it! Through all of that, breastfeeding has become one of the greatest achievements and joys of my life. Every little squishy roll on Clíos body, I created! I had enough support to keep me going but so many women dont. We need to give breastfeeding mums more support to meet their feeding goals and be open and honest about our journeys. There are some great resources that I found invaluable like the Australian Breastfeeding Association helpline 1800 MUM 2 MUM (1800 686 268) @themilkmeg @pinkymckay1 @australianbreastfeedingproject Happy World Breastfeeding Week! #wbw2020

05.01.2022 Introducing Kathryn the Massaging Midwife who has now joined my team at The Centre Midwifery Kathryn is offering pregnancy and postnatal massage and is available for bookings now She will soon be joining me in offering private Midwifery care and home birth through The Centre Midwifery ... Keep an eye out for her beautiful smiling face Rach x

05.01.2022 Labour Tens Machine can be used in labour as an option for pain relief. The electrical impulses reduce the ability of the nervous system to transfer pain signals to the spinal cord and brain. Benefits include:... Stimulating the release of endorphins- feel good hormone No harm to you or your baby You have control over the settings to increase or decrease as needed You are able to mobilise without restrictions Use in early labour at home Non invasive, no medications or injections used

02.01.2022 Midwife in the making Home visits with Aurelia are always a delight Normalising home visits and home birth ... Teaching them young to pass on the baton of Midwifery care

02.01.2022 Hanna's Journey Nourishing Jacob We had a bit of a rough start to breastfeeding. I had a c-section which delayed my milk coming in and a big 4.9kg baby who got hungry and thirsty after two days and needed more than the few drops of colostrum I had at the time. He ended up in NICU with a fever and it gave us quite a scare. He was given a nasal feeding tube and some formula via this which soon turned him into a very content and healthy baby. And even though the tube looked ...confronting it enabled me to continue establishing breastfeeding which we did. My milk came in on day 5 and on day 6 we were able to go home. It took a few more weeks of sore nipples, tears, doubts and trial and error until we found our rhythm but we did. From then on it was great. At 10 months old I had a bout of mastitis. What a horrible thing to have. But it put me in contact with the Australian breastfeeding association after the GP Id seen told me to stop feeding and put Jacob on cows milk instead. Good thing I didnt and got some further advice and information. I continued to feed Jacob until he was almost 22 months old. When he was 13 months old I went back to work and because I work afternoon shifts I made the unusual choice to drop bedtime feeds. It was the first feed I dropped intentionally but I didnt want to introduce a bottle (pumping wasnt working for me and I didnt want to switch to formula either). It worked well and my husband has been able to put Jacob to bed without a hitch when Im not home ever since. Win win! When I fell pregnant with our second I eventually weaned Jacob. My boobs just got so sore I couldnt stand it any longer. One day I told Jacob that my boobies are empty. He never questioned it and just got on with his little life. I missed our boobies cuddles though so we found other ways to catch up on cuddles during the day. We now have a lovely routine of sitting in the recliner chair in his bedroom before nap and bedtime. We revisit the days adventures and cuddle for a few minutes before he settles in bed. Jacobs little sibling will be here soon and Im hoping to be able to breastfeed successfully again.

01.01.2022 One spot available for Hypnobirthing 2 day course this weekend 26th and 27th September. Call to register 0434833822 xOne spot available for Hypnobirthing 2 day course this weekend 26th and 27th September. Call to register 0434833822 x

01.01.2022 Thank You Hanna and Bob for sharing your VBAC birth story. Hanna, you are strong, brave and fierce. Our birth story We are now a family of four. Yay! My husband Bob, our first son Jacob, our newest family member Xander and myself. ...Continue reading