Getting To Know Calmbirth Educator Ashleigh Foy

Ashleigh is an Endorsed Midwife, Registered Nurse, IBCLC Lactation Consultant, NDC Practitioner, and Calmbirth Educator.

For over a decade, I have dedicated myself to supporting women and their families during labour and birth within Tamworth.

I run a private clinic providing personalised midwifery care, lactation support, and neuroprotective developmental care in my roles as a Private Midwife, IBCLC Lactation Consultant, and NDC Practitioner.

As a mother of six, I entered motherhood at an early age, which left me feeling underprepared and lacking adequate knowledge about labour and birth. This experience often felt like being a passenger rather than a driver in my own birthing experiences, leading to feelings of fear and a lack of control.

I was introduced to the Calmbirth program by a fellow Calmbirth educator who highly recommended its benefits for couples approaching labour and birth. Upon learning more about Calmbirth, I realised how transformative it could have been for my own birthing experiences.

“Birth is not merely the arrival of a new baby; it is a profoundly transformative experience that also sees the birth of a couple. Mothers possess an inherent strength that often remains hidden until they give birth, revealing their resilience and power.”

I am deeply passionate about educating couples on pregnancy, birth, and beyond, as I firmly believe that you are the expert on your own body and your baby.

My Name is...Ashleigh or Ash.

I work at…I run my own private practice, Nurture and Nourish Collective, where I provide services as a Private Midwife, IBCLC lactation consultant, and NDC practitioner.

The five words that describe my life would be...Discovery, fulfilling, proud, love, growth.

The best thing about where I live…I have a deep appreciation for my community and its members. I am particularly inspired by the way the women support each other and demonstrate a strong commitment to women’s health and well-being. Our collective concern for mothers and their babies is heartfelt and genuine.

When I’m not working and have some spare time I love…I enjoy spending time with my six children, whether we’re taking walks, playing outdoors, or watching them as they ride their bikes. We also enjoy playing with our three dachshunds during our family activities.

I can’t live without...My children!

The trait I admire most in others is…Kindness and giving.

What I love most about being a Calmbirth educator is...Giving couples tools to achieve the best birth for themselves and their baby. I love how confident couples are going into their labour and birth after attending Calmbirth.

If I had to describe my own birth experiences in 3 words…Vulnerable, disappointing, fear.

Three essential things you need to take in to labour are...Toolbox, understanding, support.

The most memorable moment I’ve had as an educator...Witnessing the confidence that couples exhibit following a weekend of Calmbirth is truly inspiring. I love hearing about their readiness as they approach labour and birth, reflecting on the thorough preparation they have undertaken.

A favourite quote…I am going to make you so proud – note to self.

How does seeing a baby being born make me feel...Despite having six children of my own and many years of experience as a midwife, I continue to experience a profound sense of wonder each time a baby enters the world. I hold deep appreciation and admiration for the mothers during the birthing process. It is the awe in their expressions, reflecting their incredible achievement, that fills me with immense pride.

You can follow me at…@nurtureandnourishcollective

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