Why ONE BORN EVERY MINUTE is not your friend!
Hands up—how many of us went into our births thinking this is what birth is supposed to look like? The brightly lit room, the mum on the hospital bed from the moment she steps in, politely positioned on her back for the convenience of the medical team. Sound familiar?
I’ll admit it: I did. I went into my first birth convinced this was the norm, because that’s what I’d been shown. And not just shown—this idea was etched into my mind by TV shows like One Born Every Minute.
I watched it religiously before I was pregnant, soaking in every moment, and even throughout my pregnancies. Somehow, I still didn’t realise how unhelpful it was. Even as I prepared for my second baby, I carried the same misconceptions.
The truth?
This image of birth—the one perpetuated by our culture, society, and yes, TV—is not the only way birth looks.
It’s not how it has to feel.
It’s not the limit of what’s possible.
Oh, how I wish I’d known then even a fraction of what I know now. My own experiences are a huge part of why I do what I do today. They’ve driven me to become a doula, supporting other families as they prepare to birth their babies their way.
Step Off the Treadmill
There’s a treadmill most people step onto the moment they enter the maternity care system. A routine of care and guidelines that often sweeps parents along without stopping to ask what they want, what they know, or what they’ve dreamed their birth could be.
But here’s the thing:
You don’t have to stay on that treadmill.
You can step off. Just for a moment. Take a breath, look around, and explore the options available to you. You might decide the treadmill is where you feel safest and want to stay—and that’s completely fine. The important thing is that the choice is YOURS.
Because a choice without options isn’t really a choice, is it?
Take Back Control
So how do you step into your power?
Do your research.
Write a birth plan that reflects your wishes and preferences.
Find education and support—not just for yourself, but for your birth partner too.
When you take time to prepare, you put yourself in the best possible position to make informed choices. You can come out on the other side of birth feeling a sense of accomplishment, knowing you made the decisions that were right for you.
A Toolkit for Birth YOUR Way
Choosing doula support means having someone by your side who is entirely focused on you—your needs, your wishes, and your journey. My role is to help you feel informed, supported, and confident as you prepare for birth, no matter what your plans look like.
As your doula, I offer practical guidance and emotional reassurance throughout your pregnancy, birth, and beyond. Together, we’ll explore your options, talk through your preferences, and create a birth plan that feels right for you. I’ll also support your birth partner, ensuring they feel prepared and confident in their role.
Why is doula support so valuable?
Continuity of Care: You’ll have someone who knows you and understands your unique needs, offering consistent support at every step.
Informed Choices: I’ll help you navigate the wealth of information out there, empowering you to make decisions that align with your values.
Emotional Support: Birth can be a transformative time, and having someone to listen, reassure, and advocate for you can make all the difference.
Practical Tools: Whether it’s relaxation techniques, communication strategies, or snack planning, I’ll share tools that can help you feel more in control.
My aim is to help you approach your birth with confidence and a sense of calm, knowing you’ve prepared in a way that works for you. Let’s work together to make your birth experience truly yours. ❤️
Let’s Chat ❤️
Finding the right support for your pregnancy and birth is so important. I’m always here to answer your questions and help you figure out what’s best for you. Let’s have a chat—drop me a message anytime.
Much love,
Sarah x
