Part 3: Knowing What I Know Now – The Power of a Village and the Gift of a Doula
As I reflect on my birth and postpartum journey, there’s one thing I wish I had embraced sooner: the importance of leaning on my village and seeking the support of professionals like a doula and midwife. Knowing what I know today, I realize how much their presence could have transformed my experience, both during Koda’s birth and in those tender weeks afterward.
The Strength of a Village
In those early days as a new mom, I struggled with the absence of my mother and the lack of a fully present support system. I didn’t yet understand the true value of a village—the collective strength that comes from surrounding yourself with people who care for you and your baby.
A village doesn’t just help with practical things like meals or holding the baby so you can shower. It provides emotional reassurance, a listening ear, and the kind of unconditional support every new mom needs. Today, I know how vital it is to lean on those around me, to ask for help, and to welcome the love and care others are willing to give.
The Doula and Midwife Difference
If I could go back, I would absolutely have a doula and midwife by my side. The blessings their presence brings are unmatched. A midwife could have guided me through Koda’s birth with a sense of calm and empowerment, helping me feel more in control during the moments that felt rushed or overwhelming.
A doula, on the other hand, would have provided the emotional and physical support I didn’t know I needed. Whether through calming words, comforting touch, or simply being a steady presence, a doula could have helped me navigate the uncertainty of my unplanned C-section and the challenges of my postpartum recovery.
These professionals don’t just care for mothers physically—they nurture the emotional and mental well-being that often gets overlooked. They hold space for moms to feel seen, heard, and cared for, and that kind of support is invaluable.
Looking Ahead to a VBAC
As I think about the possibility of having another baby, I feel hopeful and determined to approach it differently. My dream is to have a VBAC—a vaginal birth after a C-section. Knowing what I know now, I want to prepare in a way that empowers me to have the birth I envision.
This time, I will prioritize building a strong village and inviting a doula and midwife into my journey. I will lean on their expertise, embrace their support, and trust in their ability to guide me through the process with care and compassion.
The Gift of Knowledge
My experiences with Koda’s birth and postpartum journey have shaped me in profound ways. They’ve taught me the importance of preparation, the power of support, and the value of trusting my instincts. Most importantly, they’ve shown me that motherhood is a journey best shared—not carried alone.
If you’re a mom-to-be or a new mom, I encourage you to lean on your village, seek out a doula or midwife, and know that you don’t have to do it all on your own. Their presence is truly a blessing, and the support they bring can make all the difference in your journey.
Have you considered using a doula or midwife for your birth or postpartum experience? I’d love to hear your thoughts and share stories. Together, we can create a community of support, love, and empowerment for every mother. I reflect on my birth and postpartum journey, there’s one thing I wish I had embraced sooner: the importance of leaning on my village and seeking the support of professionals like a doula and midwife. Knowing what I know today, I realize how much their presence could have transformed my experience, both during Koda’s birth and in those tender weeks afterward.
The Strength of a Village
In those early days as a new mom, I struggled with the absence of my mother and the lack of a fully present support system. I didn’t yet understand the true value of a village—the collective strength that comes from surrounding yourself with people who care for you and your baby.
A village doesn’t just help with practical things like meals or holding the baby so you can shower. It provides emotional reassurance, a listening ear, and the kind of unconditional support every new mom needs. Today, I know how vital it is to lean on those around me, to ask for help, and to welcome the love and care others are willing to give.
The Doula and Midwife Difference
If I could go back, I would absolutely have a doula and midwife by my side. The blessings their presence brings are unmatched. A midwife could have guided me through Koda’s birth with a sense of calm and empowerment, helping me feel more in control during the moments that felt rushed or overwhelming.
A doula, on the other hand, would have provided the emotional and physical support I didn’t know I needed. Whether through calming words, comforting touch, or simply being a steady presence, a doula could have helped me navigate the uncertainty of my unplanned C-section and the challenges of my postpartum recovery.
These professionals don’t just care for mothers physically—they nurture the emotional and mental well-being that often gets overlooked. They hold space for moms to feel seen, heard, and cared for, and that kind of support is invaluable.
Looking Ahead to a VBAC
As I think about the possibility of having another baby, I feel hopeful and determined to approach it differently. My dream is to have a VBAC—a vaginal birth after a C-section. Knowing what I know now, I want to prepare in a way that empowers me to have the birth I envision.
This time, I will prioritize building a strong village and inviting a doula and midwife into my journey. I will lean on their expertise, embrace their support, and trust in their ability to guide me through the process with care and compassion.
The Gift of Knowledge
My experiences with Koda’s birth and postpartum journey have shaped me in profound ways. They’ve taught me the importance of preparation, the power of support, and the value of trusting my instincts. Most importantly, they’ve shown me that motherhood is a journey best shared—not carried alone.
If you’re a mom-to-be or a new mom, I encourage you to lean on your village, seek out a doula or midwife, and know that you don’t have to do it all on your own. Reach out to our Team at Selah Birth & Apothecary. We are here to make that journey easier for you❤️
