Louise Luscri has been teaching Calmbirth since 2007. Over the past ten years she has met so many women and their partners who have used the Calmbirth skills in pregnancy, labour and birth which they report contributed to making a significant and positive difference in their lives.

Louise Luscri has been teaching Calmbirth since 2007. Over the past ten years she has met so many women and their partners who have used the Calmbirth skills in pregnancy, labour and birth which they report contributed to making a significant and positive difference in their lives.

Melinda is a mother of two young adults, a Dr. Chinese medicine and has been a Doula since 2008, preparing, educating and supporting women and their partners for labour and birth.

Melinda is a mother of two young adults, a Dr. Chinese medicine and has been a Doula since 2008, preparing, educating and supporting women and their partners for labour and birth.

Calmbirth would like to wish its Founder and only male Calmbirth Educator, Peter Jackson, a very happy Father’s Day this Sunday. We would like to thank him for his passion, work, and dedication he has shown in revolutionising childbirth education in Australia and making a difference in the world and to pregnant couples.

Calmbirth would like to wish its Founder and only male Calmbirth Educator, Peter Jackson, a very happy Father’s Day this Sunday. We would like to thank him for his passion, work, and dedication he has shown in revolutionising childbirth education in Australia and making a difference in the world and to pregnant couples.

Kath is a Registered Midwife currently working in a large tertiary hospital in Melbourne. Working with women everyday in a busy Birth Centre, I’ve noticed how a calm environment could influence the birth of a baby and therefore the woman’s experience.  

Kath is a Registered Midwife currently working in a large tertiary hospital in Melbourne. Working with women everyday in a busy Birth Centre, I’ve noticed how a calm environment could influence the birth of a baby and therefore the woman’s experience.  

Lea has been a midwife for over 20 years within the hospital system as well as working as a Private practise elegible midwife for “Optimal Midwifery”. She is also a registered Calmbirth® Educator and believes the Calmbirth® program is an amazing and empowering opportunity for women and families in the community.

Lea has been a midwife for over 20 years within the hospital system as well as working as a Private practise elegible midwife for “Optimal Midwifery”. She is also a registered Calmbirth® Educator and believes the Calmbirth® program is an amazing and empowering opportunity for women and families in the community.

Kristal Byrne is a practising Registered Nurse, Midwife and childbirth educator working in Wangaratta. She is a busy wife and mother of two girls but always finds time for her other passion.

Kristal Byrne is a practising Registered Nurse, Midwife and childbirth educator working in Wangaratta. She is a busy wife and mother of two girls but always finds time for her other passion.

Karen McClay is the Director of Calmbirth®PTY LTD. She is also a Southern Highlands Calmbirth Educator, practising Registered Midwife (RM), and a Registered Nurse (RN) and is the daughter of the founder of Calmbirth®, Peter Jackson.

Karen McClay is the Director of Calmbirth®PTY LTD. She is also a Southern Highlands Calmbirth Educator, practising Registered Midwife (RM), and a Registered Nurse (RN) and is the daughter of the founder of Calmbirth®, Peter Jackson.

Rosie lives on a farm with her husband, & two children. It was after doing the Calmbirth program with her partner 5 years ago (before the birth of their first child), that she knew it was something she was passionate to pursue.

Rosie lives on a farm with her husband, & two children. It was after doing the Calmbirth program with her partner 5 years ago (before the birth of their first child), that she knew it was something she was passionate to pursue.

Bec is a Registered Midwife and Calmbirth Educator. Over the past 12 years of clinical practice she has always loved educating, empowering and assisting couples before, during and after their birthing process.

Bec is a Registered Midwife and Calmbirth Educator. Over the past 12 years of clinical practice she has always loved educating, empowering and assisting couples before, during and after their birthing process.

Dawn Worgan is a passionate midwife with more than 30 years experience. She works across the full scope of the midwifery practice, in a continuity of care (caseload) model.

Dawn Worgan is a passionate midwife with more than 30 years experience. She works across the full scope of the midwifery practice, in a continuity of care (caseload) model.

Sue Doogan has been a Registered Nurse, Midwife and Maternal & Child Health Nurse for well over 25 years.

Sue Doogan has been a Registered Nurse, Midwife and Maternal & Child Health Nurse for well over 25 years.

My name is Brooke Cooper and I’m a Registered Nurse and Midwife with a combined 11 years’ experience. I am the mother of 2 beautiful girls and was fortunate to have used Calmbirth® for both of my births which were very different from each other and can say first hand that I found it invaluable.

My name is Brooke Cooper and I’m a Registered Nurse and Midwife with a combined 11 years’ experience. I am the mother of 2 beautiful girls and was fortunate to have used Calmbirth® for both of my births which were very different from each other and can say first hand that I found it invaluable.

Kate Corbett is a midwife and mother of three young children. Her passion lies in assisting birthing couples to discover and develop their inner strengths for pregnancy, birth and beyond so that they may approach their baby’s birth feeling calm, confident and empowered.

Kate Corbett is a midwife and mother of three young children. Her passion lies in assisting birthing couples to discover and develop their inner strengths for pregnancy, birth and beyond so that they may approach their baby’s birth feeling calm, confident and empowered.

Her passion to become a Calmbirth® educator was driven by both her professional and personal experiences. She is a registered nurse, midwife and ‘mother’ to two beautiful girls.

Her passion to become a Calmbirth® educator was driven by both her professional and personal experiences. She is a registered nurse, midwife and ‘mother’ to two beautiful girls.

We are so excited to announce that Calmbirth Educator, Jessica Cuneo, will be joining Karen and Peter in the Southern Highlands Calmbirth Centre in Mittagong to teach our highly acclaimed and trusted Calmbirth program.

Jessica is a Registered and practicing Midwife, and a Registered Nurse specialising in Paediatrics.

We are so excited to announce that Calmbirth Educator, Jessica Cuneo, will be joining Karen and Peter in the Southern Highlands Calmbirth Centre in Mittagong to teach our highly acclaimed and trusted Calmbirth program.

Jessica is a Registered and practicing Midwife, and a Registered Nurse specialising in Paediatrics.

We are so pleased to announce that Calmbirth Educator, Jenna Troy, will be joining Karen, Peter and Jessica in the Southern Highlands Calmbirth Centre in Mittagong to teach our highly acclaimed and trusted Calmbirth program.

Jenna is a Registered Nurse and Midwife who has enjoyed working in all areas and facets of Maternity but has found birth suite her calling.

We are so pleased to announce that Calmbirth Educator, Jenna Troy, will be joining Karen, Peter and Jessica in the Southern Highlands Calmbirth Centre in Mittagong to teach our highly acclaimed and trusted Calmbirth program.

Jenna is a Registered Nurse and Midwife who has enjoyed working in all areas and facets of Maternity but has found birth suite her calling.

We are so excited to announce that the Calmbirth program will be available for ALL pregnant couples living in the sutherland shire and surrounding area at the Sutherland Hospital in March. 

We are equally just as excited to announce that midwife and Calmbirth Educator, Alisha Dewes will be teaching the Calmbirth program at Sutherland Hospital. We would like you to get to know her a little better…Getting to know Alisha Dewes.

We are so excited to announce that the Calmbirth program will be available for ALL pregnant couples living in the sutherland shire and surrounding area at the Sutherland Hospital in March. 

We are equally just as excited to announce that midwife and Calmbirth Educator, Alisha Dewes will be teaching the Calmbirth program at Sutherland Hospital. We would like you to get to know her a little better…Getting to know Alisha Dewes.

Debbie Peters is a mum and certified Calmbirth Educator, who successfully used the Calmbirth relaxation techniques for the birth of her own daughter, Waimarie (9lb 6oz), without any need for drugs. She had such an amazing birth experience that she wanted to share this knowledge so became a Calmbirth Educator so that she could build and instil confidence in other pregnant couples.

Debbie Peters is a mum and certified Calmbirth Educator, who successfully used the Calmbirth relaxation techniques for the birth of her own daughter, Waimarie (9lb 6oz), without any need for drugs. She had such an amazing birth experience that she wanted to share this knowledge so became a Calmbirth Educator so that she could build and instil confidence in other pregnant couples.

Calmbirth Educator Vida Rye is a passionate advocate for physiological birth whether it be at home, in hospital or in a birth centre and she is very active in her local birthing community. She has worked as a birth and postnatal doula (a trained birth companion and supporter after birth) in England in the community and also in Holloway Prison in London with women who were facing pregnancy and childbirth whilst serving their sentences/on remand before moving to Wellington, New Zealand in 2002.

Calmbirth Educator Vida Rye is a passionate advocate for physiological birth whether it be at home, in hospital or in a birth centre and she is very active in her local birthing community. She has worked as a birth and postnatal doula (a trained birth companion and supporter after birth) in England in the community and also in Holloway Prison in London with women who were facing pregnancy and childbirth whilst serving their sentences/on remand before moving to Wellington, New Zealand in 2002.

Birth is mysterious and there is no certainty as to how it will unfold, it is a journey with infinite possibilities. Birth challenges us to face this rather uncomfortable space of not knowing and surrendering to the unknown. Despite this uncertainty there is so much that can be done to prepare for birth in all its beautiful forms.

Birth is mysterious and there is no certainty as to how it will unfold, it is a journey with infinite possibilities. Birth challenges us to face this rather uncomfortable space of not knowing and surrendering to the unknown. Despite this uncertainty there is so much that can be done to prepare for birth in all its beautiful forms.

It’s amazing how newborns change the shapes of their heads in order to fit through the mother’s pelvis. 

It’s amazing how newborns change the shapes of their heads in order to fit through the mother’s pelvis. 

A woman’s body never ceases to amaze me!

A woman’s body never ceases to amaze me!

Maja completed her Midwifery in Germany in 2005. She has worked as a community midwife in Frankfurt, Germany, and as a hospital based midwife in Dublin. She now works as a midwife in Sydney in a Birth Centre and has been a Calmbirth Educator since 2017.We are so pleased to announce that Maja will be joining our team of Calmbirth Educators and will be teaching the Calmbirth Program at the NSPH starting on 16th& 23rd June.  

Maja completed her Midwifery in Germany in 2005. She has worked as a community midwife in Frankfurt, Germany, and as a hospital based midwife in Dublin. She now works as a midwife in Sydney in a Birth Centre and has been a Calmbirth Educator since 2017.We are so pleased to announce that Maja will be joining our team of Calmbirth Educators and will be teaching the Calmbirth Program at the NSPH starting on 16th& 23rd June.  

6ｃｍ Ｄｉｌａｔｅd
You know you’re a Midwife when you see this image and the first thing you think is “6cm dilated” haha!Which leads me into the topic of vaginal examinations (aka VE or internals) in labour. Did you know that vaginal examinations have NO predictive value in determining how long your labour will last? Or when you will give birth?

6ｃｍ Ｄｉｌａｔｅd
You know you’re a Midwife when you see this image and the first thing you think is “6cm dilated” haha!Which leads me into the topic of vaginal examinations (aka VE or internals) in labour. Did you know that vaginal examinations have NO predictive value in determining how long your labour will last? Or when you will give birth?

Sarah Tooke is a registered midwife who works at the Mater Hospital in North Sydney. She is also a childbirth and parenting educator, as well as a registered Calmbirth Educator. 

Sarah Tooke is a registered midwife who works at the Mater Hospital in North Sydney. She is also a childbirth and parenting educator, as well as a registered Calmbirth Educator. 

Susie is a registered nurse, midwife and child and family health nurse. She is also a registered Calmbirth Educator who will be teaching the very sought after, highly acclaimed and TRUSTED Calmbirth Program at the Mater Hospital in North Sydney when it’s launched later in July this year.

Susie is a registered nurse, midwife and child and family health nurse. She is also a registered Calmbirth Educator who will be teaching the very sought after, highly acclaimed and TRUSTED Calmbirth Program at the Mater Hospital in North Sydney when it’s launched later in July this year.

‘The amniotic membrane is adhered to the chorion – the other membrane attached to the placenta that sits between the amniotic membrane and the uterus.’ These membranes look like one, but are in fact two.

‘The amniotic membrane is adhered to the chorion – the other membrane attached to the placenta that sits between the amniotic membrane and the uterus.’ These membranes look like one, but are in fact two.

In my twenty years as a midwife I have assisted and witnessed hundreds of beautiful births. I have also seen many women and their partners who are very afraid of birth and the effects of that fear. I wanted to find a way for women to learn about the resources they have within them, to help them understand what a wonderful and transformative experience birth can be. I studied Masters in Midwifery and taught antenatal classes for some time, but did not feel satisfied that the classes truly connected women and their partners with their inner potential. The classes really only looked at what was happening in the outside world and although worthy, did not address what was happening and could happen internally.

In my twenty years as a midwife I have assisted and witnessed hundreds of beautiful births. I have also seen many women and their partners who are very afraid of birth and the effects of that fear. I wanted to find a way for women to learn about the resources they have within them, to help them understand what a wonderful and transformative experience birth can be. I studied Masters in Midwifery and taught antenatal classes for some time, but did not feel satisfied that the classes truly connected women and their partners with their inner potential. The classes really only looked at what was happening in the outside world and although worthy, did not address what was happening and could happen internally.

Heidi is a Calmbirth Educator for the Central Queensland region, CQ Birth & Beyond offering weekend small groups as well as private classes in tranquil Limestone Creek (between Rockhampton and Yeppoon). She is a Registered Nurse who has specialised in the field of Paediatrics for over 18 years, as well as a Registered Midwife since 2008 and is excited to share her knowledge and expertise to take pregnant couples on their own parenting journey of self discovery and embracing birth calmly and confidently. 

Heidi is a Calmbirth Educator for the Central Queensland region, CQ Birth & Beyond offering weekend small groups as well as private classes in tranquil Limestone Creek (between Rockhampton and Yeppoon). She is a Registered Nurse who has specialised in the field of Paediatrics for over 18 years, as well as a Registered Midwife since 2008 and is excited to share her knowledge and expertise to take pregnant couples on their own parenting journey of self discovery and embracing birth calmly and confidently. 

SROM (Sh-rom) aka Spontaneous Rupture of Membranes or in layman’s terms most people know it is simply as “your waters breaking” and refers to the fluid-filled bag of waters surrounding your baby breaking.

SROM (Sh-rom) aka Spontaneous Rupture of Membranes or in layman’s terms most people know it is simply as “your waters breaking” and refers to the fluid-filled bag of waters surrounding your baby breaking.

Did you know studies suggest that eating 60-80g of fresh medjool dates (equivalent to around 5-6 dates) every day from 36-37 weeks can lead to:

Did you know studies suggest that eating 60-80g of fresh medjool dates (equivalent to around 5-6 dates) every day from 36-37 weeks can lead to:

Sam is a midwife and Nurse on the beautiful Sunshine Coast Australia. She’s also a wife and mother to a gorgeous cheeky 3yr old girl and her Golden fur baby. 

Sam is a midwife and Nurse on the beautiful Sunshine Coast Australia. She’s also a wife and mother to a gorgeous cheeky 3yr old girl and her Golden fur baby. 

Doula and Chinese Medicine Practitioner Melinda Webb Shares Her Insights with Grace Tales On Birth, Babies & Beyond

Doula and Chinese Medicine Practitioner Melinda Webb Shares Her Insights with Grace Tales On Birth, Babies & Beyond

Thought I would share the birthing story of our new little one – Aroha Shirley Coupar

Thought I would share the birthing story of our new little one – Aroha Shirley Coupar

Hi Dawn I wanted to thank you for giving David and I the invaluable skills and tools we learnt at your calm birth workshop on the 2nd of Feb.

Hi Dawn I wanted to thank you for giving David and I the invaluable skills and tools we learnt at your calm birth workshop on the 2nd of Feb.

Cherie Chugg is our one and only Calmbirth Educator in Tasmania. She is passionate about birth and works as a doula and Calmbirth Educator in Launceston. 
 
Supporting women as a doula was not enough for me I wanted to reach a wider group of people and I wanted to teach more couples about how to be prepared for childbirth. I knew from my own personal experience that having an understanding of what was going to be happening in my body helped eliminate any fears I had around childbirth.

Cherie Chugg is our one and only Calmbirth Educator in Tasmania. She is passionate about birth and works as a doula and Calmbirth Educator in Launceston. 
 
Supporting women as a doula was not enough for me I wanted to reach a wider group of people and I wanted to teach more couples about how to be prepared for childbirth. I knew from my own personal experience that having an understanding of what was going to be happening in my body helped eliminate any fears I had around childbirth.

Karen Williams is a midwife and Calmbirth Educator who offers the Calmbirth program to pregnant couples in the Yass Valley, Canberra and surrounding districts. Karen loves supporting pregnant couples to prepare for the arrival of their baby and for the early parenting period, she says “being a part of a couples journey in birth and early parenting is a great privilege and one that I relish!”

Karen Williams is a midwife and Calmbirth Educator who offers the Calmbirth program to pregnant couples in the Yass Valley, Canberra and surrounding districts. Karen loves supporting pregnant couples to prepare for the arrival of their baby and for the early parenting period, she says “being a part of a couples journey in birth and early parenting is a great privilege and one that I relish!”

Lyndal is a Registered Midwife/Nurse. Her recent maternity experience is mostly in postnatal care, however she has experience and has  worked in all areas, including Midwifery Group Practice.Lyndal knows and has seen first hand that birth is life changing and says, “I don’t just want to help you or your loved ones reach their birthing potential but over time I want to see and be part of a generational change where our daughters and granddaughters no longer fear labour and birth but instead, revel in the challenge of seeing what a woman’s body is truly capable of.” 

Lyndal is a Registered Midwife/Nurse. Her recent maternity experience is mostly in postnatal care, however she has experience and has  worked in all areas, including Midwifery Group Practice.Lyndal knows and has seen first hand that birth is life changing and says, “I don’t just want to help you or your loved ones reach their birthing potential but over time I want to see and be part of a generational change where our daughters and granddaughters no longer fear labour and birth but instead, revel in the challenge of seeing what a woman’s body is truly capable of.” 

We are so excited to announce and introduce our fabulously talented Midwife and Calmbirth Educator, Natalie Grinbergs, who will be teaching for us at Southern Highlands Calmbirth and joining Director Karen McClay and Jenna Troy. Natalie Grinbergs is a Registered Midwife (RM), Child and Family Health Nurse, and Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), and has worked with women and their families for over 15 years.Despite already being a midwife, Natalie and her partner also did the Calmbirth program to help prepare her for her own birth and found Calmbirth an invaluable learning experience. She says, “the Calmbirth® knowledge and skills, in particular learning how the mind-body connection affects birth, increased my trust in my body, and enhanced my partner’s ability to support me throughout labour and birth. Welcoming our child into the world was such a calm and joyful adventure, and it is my wish that every couple could experience this kind of empowering birth.”

We are so excited to announce and introduce our fabulously talented Midwife and Calmbirth Educator, Natalie Grinbergs, who will be teaching for us at Southern Highlands Calmbirth and joining Director Karen McClay and Jenna Troy. Natalie Grinbergs is a Registered Midwife (RM), Child and Family Health Nurse, and Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), and has worked with women and their families for over 15 years.Despite already being a midwife, Natalie and her partner also did the Calmbirth program to help prepare her for her own birth and found Calmbirth an invaluable learning experience. She says, “the Calmbirth® knowledge and skills, in particular learning how the mind-body connection affects birth, increased my trust in my body, and enhanced my partner’s ability to support me throughout labour and birth. Welcoming our child into the world was such a calm and joyful adventure, and it is my wish that every couple could experience this kind of empowering birth.”

Lucy is a Registered Midwife from Bath, England. She has a wealth of midwifery experience ranging from working with the low risk midwifery led birthing unit, the high risk obstetric unit and the ante and postnatal wards. She completed her Midwifery training at the prestigious City University in London between 2006 – 2009, and then she went on to do her preceptorship year at a large NHS University Hospital in East London. When an opportunity for an overseas midwifery role arose in 2014, I ventured here to Australia taking a position at the Mater Private Hospital working across all areas of Maternity: Birth unit, the Post Natal ward and the Education Team utilising my diverse range of midwifery skills.My love for education has grown through my midwifery career, leading me to Calmbirth and becoming a Calmbirth Educator. I have a great interest in the mind- body connection during labour which is the foundation of the Calmbirth teaching and principles.

Lucy is a Registered Midwife from Bath, England. She has a wealth of midwifery experience ranging from working with the low risk midwifery led birthing unit, the high risk obstetric unit and the ante and postnatal wards. She completed her Midwifery training at the prestigious City University in London between 2006 – 2009, and then she went on to do her preceptorship year at a large NHS University Hospital in East London. When an opportunity for an overseas midwifery role arose in 2014, I ventured here to Australia taking a position at the Mater Private Hospital working across all areas of Maternity: Birth unit, the Post Natal ward and the Education Team utilising my diverse range of midwifery skills.My love for education has grown through my midwifery career, leading me to Calmbirth and becoming a Calmbirth Educator. I have a great interest in the mind- body connection during labour which is the foundation of the Calmbirth teaching and principles.

After working with pregnant women for over 20 years I know that you want the very best for your precious baby, but you may be unsure if it’s even possible to have a good birth or be a calm and confident mother.  There’s so much information and advice and it can be hard to know where to start and what’s important for you. I’ve created this ‘Village’ to give you a safe and caring place away from the busyness of life so that you can enjoy a healthy and happy pregnancy, prepare calmly for your baby’s safe arrival and enjoy your new baby with ease and comfort.  

After working with pregnant women for over 20 years I know that you want the very best for your precious baby, but you may be unsure if it’s even possible to have a good birth or be a calm and confident mother.  There’s so much information and advice and it can be hard to know where to start and what’s important for you. I’ve created this ‘Village’ to give you a safe and caring place away from the busyness of life so that you can enjoy a healthy and happy pregnancy, prepare calmly for your baby’s safe arrival and enjoy your new baby with ease and comfort.  

We are so excited and proud to be announcing that we are still revolutionising and pioneering childbirth education by having Australia’s first ever, fully trained and qualified, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Dr Lanzis Homar, join our Calmbirth family by becoming a Calmbirth Educator.  This is a milestone in changing our birth culture one family at a time, through the collaborative approach of an obstetrician working together with his midwife and pregnant couples to bring about cultural change and minimise the risk of intervention. 

We are so excited and proud to be announcing that we are still revolutionising and pioneering childbirth education by having Australia’s first ever, fully trained and qualified, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Dr Lanzis Homar, join our Calmbirth family by becoming a Calmbirth Educator.  This is a milestone in changing our birth culture one family at a time, through the collaborative approach of an obstetrician working together with his midwife and pregnant couples to bring about cultural change and minimise the risk of intervention. 

Sally Crothers is a midwife and Calmbirth Educator who is passionate about educating women and their families. She strongly believes that knowledge is power and having strong relationships between the members of a multidisciplinary team.”For almost all of my midwifery career I have worked in small rural communities, including Ayers Rock, Alice Springs, Roma and Chinchilla. In these areas, with limited personnel I have learnt the value of having a strong relationship between obstetricians, midwives and all of the multi -disciplinary team.”So, this leads me to “Calmbirth with Lanziz and Sally”. When Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Dr Lanziz Homar approached me and suggested that we work as a team to teach Calmbirth it just made sense, and really combined all of my birthing philosophies. To be able to work in partnership with Lanziz and educate women and families to approach their birth feeling calm and relaxed, is a really positive step to providing outstanding care to the women of Toowoomba.When a woman leaves our class saying “I am so excited about the birth, I can’t wait”, I really feel like we are achieving our goal, of “changing the world one birth at a time. “

Sally Crothers is a midwife and Calmbirth Educator who is passionate about educating women and their families. She strongly believes that knowledge is power and having strong relationships between the members of a multidisciplinary team.”For almost all of my midwifery career I have worked in small rural communities, including Ayers Rock, Alice Springs, Roma and Chinchilla. In these areas, with limited personnel I have learnt the value of having a strong relationship between obstetricians, midwives and all of the multi -disciplinary team.”So, this leads me to “Calmbirth with Lanziz and Sally”. When Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Dr Lanziz Homar approached me and suggested that we work as a team to teach Calmbirth it just made sense, and really combined all of my birthing philosophies. To be able to work in partnership with Lanziz and educate women and families to approach their birth feeling calm and relaxed, is a really positive step to providing outstanding care to the women of Toowoomba.When a woman leaves our class saying “I am so excited about the birth, I can’t wait”, I really feel like we are achieving our goal, of “changing the world one birth at a time. “

Kiri, is a registered midwife and complementary therapist, with varied experiences working within the UK and Australia.Her decision to train as a Calmbirth educator was a natural progression, stemming from her wish to assist women striving to reach their desired birth experience.”I was struck by the simplicity of the Calmbirth techniques which can be utilised throughout life, not just for birth! “

Kiri, is a registered midwife and complementary therapist, with varied experiences working within the UK and Australia.Her decision to train as a Calmbirth educator was a natural progression, stemming from her wish to assist women striving to reach their desired birth experience.”I was struck by the simplicity of the Calmbirth techniques which can be utilised throughout life, not just for birth! “

Tanya is a Registered Midwife and Registered Nurse with over 25 years experience working as a health professional. Her passion for educating and supporting women and their partners as they transform into parents for the first, second, third or fourth time, has been inspired by her belief that knowledge and resources are essential for women to create the best experiences for themselves and their families.”I love seeing how Calmbirth helps to dispel the myths and reduce fear surrounding birth while providing knowledge and trust in the amazing ability of a woman’s mind and body.  Well informed and prepared couples are active participants in their journey and look forward to the birth of their baby with excitement and confidence,” she says. 

Tanya is a Registered Midwife and Registered Nurse with over 25 years experience working as a health professional. Her passion for educating and supporting women and their partners as they transform into parents for the first, second, third or fourth time, has been inspired by her belief that knowledge and resources are essential for women to create the best experiences for themselves and their families.”I love seeing how Calmbirth helps to dispel the myths and reduce fear surrounding birth while providing knowledge and trust in the amazing ability of a woman’s mind and body.  Well informed and prepared couples are active participants in their journey and look forward to the birth of their baby with excitement and confidence,” she says. 

Angela is a mum of 3 beautiful children, and is a qualified and experienced Registered Nurse, Midwife & Calmbirth Educator. She has 20 + years of experience working across the spectrum of pregnancy and birth in low risk country settings to extensive high risk experience in tertiary hospitals in both the public and private sector.

Angela is a mum of 3 beautiful children, and is a qualified and experienced Registered Nurse, Midwife & Calmbirth Educator. She has 20 + years of experience working across the spectrum of pregnancy and birth in low risk country settings to extensive high risk experience in tertiary hospitals in both the public and private sector.

Kat is a Registered Midwife since 2015 and has been facilitating childbirth education classes since 2017. Perinatal education is where her passion lies and truly believes that with Knowledge comes Confidence!  She says, “my passion for education has led me to Calmbirth and I am so glad it did! What an amazing, mindful, oxytocin inducing program!”

Kat is a Registered Midwife since 2015 and has been facilitating childbirth education classes since 2017. Perinatal education is where her passion lies and truly believes that with Knowledge comes Confidence!  She says, “my passion for education has led me to Calmbirth and I am so glad it did! What an amazing, mindful, oxytocin inducing program!”

Ashlee is a registered nurse, and registered midwife.”In my work I’ve handled hundreds of high risk births, and more recently have practised in a smaller rural centre. For many years I have referred people to Calmbirth as I saw the amazing outcomes of women who had been educated by the program. In fact, as a midwife I chose to attend the program myself, along with my husband, when we were expecting our first child. I”‘m also a mum to twin boys and, between all the kids, my husband and I are kept on our toes. A few years ago, we relocated to the Kanimbla Valley as a family to pursue a desire to live a slower, sustainable life. I will be running Calmbirth courses on our property, where we live off-grid and produce most of our own food, and on-site accommodation will be an option for Calmbirth participants.

Ashlee is a registered nurse, and registered midwife.”In my work I’ve handled hundreds of high risk births, and more recently have practised in a smaller rural centre. For many years I have referred people to Calmbirth as I saw the amazing outcomes of women who had been educated by the program. In fact, as a midwife I chose to attend the program myself, along with my husband, when we were expecting our first child. I”‘m also a mum to twin boys and, between all the kids, my husband and I are kept on our toes. A few years ago, we relocated to the Kanimbla Valley as a family to pursue a desire to live a slower, sustainable life. I will be running Calmbirth courses on our property, where we live off-grid and produce most of our own food, and on-site accommodation will be an option for Calmbirth participants.

This is us!Well it was 10 months ago! ⠀With so many new followers lately I just wanted to say a quick “hello” and “thank you”!⠀Thank you for investing in your own and your families wellbeing. Even if it’s just one post that resonates with you I feel extremely fortunate to be able to help.⠀Sharing my knowledge with you all is something that excites me in my dream that one day birth will be enjoyed & looked forward to rather than feared.⠀

This is us!Well it was 10 months ago! ⠀With so many new followers lately I just wanted to say a quick “hello” and “thank you”!⠀Thank you for investing in your own and your families wellbeing. Even if it’s just one post that resonates with you I feel extremely fortunate to be able to help.⠀Sharing my knowledge with you all is something that excites me in my dream that one day birth will be enjoyed & looked forward to rather than feared.⠀

You are never alone, when your body is home to trillions of bacteria who are paying rent to you as the landlord by helping to protect against intruders, providing power and keeping up morale! There is a close symbiotic relationship existing between your gut microbes and your survival.Hosting your microbiome is like throwing a party, it’s all about being a good host! You invite a diverse balance of guests, provide a relaxing environment, offer good tasty food, and discourage gate crashers! 

You are never alone, when your body is home to trillions of bacteria who are paying rent to you as the landlord by helping to protect against intruders, providing power and keeping up morale! There is a close symbiotic relationship existing between your gut microbes and your survival.Hosting your microbiome is like throwing a party, it’s all about being a good host! You invite a diverse balance of guests, provide a relaxing environment, offer good tasty food, and discourage gate crashers! 

My name is Mel and I am a mother of two grown boys, or should I say men, and know the excitement, intensity and exhilaration birth presents. I have been working as a Registered Midwife for more than 5 years, and currently work for Queensland Health at the local Toowoomba Hospital and I’m passionate about creating a positive birth culture. It is a privilege and honour to witness the strength and determination of women, supported by their loved ones, as they birth their baby, and welcome them into the world.Becoming a Calmbirth® Educator has given me the ability to help you replace fear with confidence and anxiety with knowledge. I love empowering women and couples to achieve what they never thought possible. I am excited to provide you with a holistic and thorough childbirth education that encompasses your birthing needs on an emotional and physical level. I look forward to empowering you on your journey to parenthood.

My name is Mel and I am a mother of two grown boys, or should I say men, and know the excitement, intensity and exhilaration birth presents. I have been working as a Registered Midwife for more than 5 years, and currently work for Queensland Health at the local Toowoomba Hospital and I’m passionate about creating a positive birth culture. It is a privilege and honour to witness the strength and determination of women, supported by their loved ones, as they birth their baby, and welcome them into the world.Becoming a Calmbirth® Educator has given me the ability to help you replace fear with confidence and anxiety with knowledge. I love empowering women and couples to achieve what they never thought possible. I am excited to provide you with a holistic and thorough childbirth education that encompasses your birthing needs on an emotional and physical level. I look forward to empowering you on your journey to parenthood.

Lauretta is a Registered Nurse and Midwife as well as a mum of two beautiful little girls!”I attended a Calmbirth course during my first pregnancy and after the first day, I knew I had to teach this incredible course and share it with as many couples as I possibly could! It helped my husband and I to work together and prepare ourselves with the mindset and practical tools to create a really positive birth experience.”I then did a refresher course for my second pregnancy and again, despite being an educator myself by this time, I gained so much confidence going into my second birth – it was so lovely to have time together to focus on and prepare for the birth of our second little girl – and wow, it was just as incredible as the first! Intense and powerful but so well supported by my husband, sister and colleagues.”One of the many things I love about Calmbirth is that it teaches skills for LIFE! Not just skills to be used in pregnancy, labour and birth, but ones that you will find yourself using everyday and even more so when you face stressful or challenging situations (especially when your toddler is having a LOT of emotions!). “I also love that it’s not about a specific type of birth – Calmbirth is about creating a positive experience, regardless of the birth scenario and what may play out on the day, and we prepare you with the knowledge of how to manage any situation. We can’t always control what happens, but we CAN control the attitude we bring to it, with the right knowledge and tools to make sure that you can savour the life altering moment of meeting your beautiful baby!”

Lauretta is a Registered Nurse and Midwife as well as a mum of two beautiful little girls!”I attended a Calmbirth course during my first pregnancy and after the first day, I knew I had to teach this incredible course and share it with as many couples as I possibly could! It helped my husband and I to work together and prepare ourselves with the mindset and practical tools to create a really positive birth experience.”I then did a refresher course for my second pregnancy and again, despite being an educator myself by this time, I gained so much confidence going into my second birth – it was so lovely to have time together to focus on and prepare for the birth of our second little girl – and wow, it was just as incredible as the first! Intense and powerful but so well supported by my husband, sister and colleagues.”One of the many things I love about Calmbirth is that it teaches skills for LIFE! Not just skills to be used in pregnancy, labour and birth, but ones that you will find yourself using everyday and even more so when you face stressful or challenging situations (especially when your toddler is having a LOT of emotions!). “I also love that it’s not about a specific type of birth – Calmbirth is about creating a positive experience, regardless of the birth scenario and what may play out on the day, and we prepare you with the knowledge of how to manage any situation. We can’t always control what happens, but we CAN control the attitude we bring to it, with the right knowledge and tools to make sure that you can savour the life altering moment of meeting your beautiful baby!”

Jordan Harper is a registered midwife and Calmbirth educator in the Port Macquarie area. A beautiful place to call home she says!

“I found Calmbirth as a student midwife and felt drawn to it ever since. I became an educator because I am passionate about educating women and families about the magical, life changing experience of pregnancy and birth. Empowering women to be informed and involved in their childbirth experience brings me so much joy. I love seeing women realise how strong they are and I have seen how Calmbirth helps them to do that. I am also a huge supporter of getting partners involved in birth and that is one of my favourite aspects of the Calmbirth course.”

Jordan Harper is a registered midwife and Calmbirth educator in the Port Macquarie area. A beautiful place to call home she says!

“I found Calmbirth as a student midwife and felt drawn to it ever since. I became an educator because I am passionate about educating women and families about the magical, life changing experience of pregnancy and birth. Empowering women to be informed and involved in their childbirth experience brings me so much joy. I love seeing women realise how strong they are and I have seen how Calmbirth helps them to do that. I am also a huge supporter of getting partners involved in birth and that is one of my favourite aspects of the Calmbirth course.”

Emmy is a Registered Midwife and Registered Nurse with over 10 years experience in supporting women through all areas of their birthing and parenting journey.  Her particular passion is in Antenatal and Early Parenting Education and she is happiest when sharing her knowledge and accompanying couples on their own unique journey into parenthood.

She says, “It is my firm belief that every woman is born instinctively knowing how to give birth but societal norms have caused us to lose sight of this amazing, innate ability. As a result, we don’t fully trust our bodies to see the process through and women become weighed down by fear and anxiety.

“I see my role as a “re-educator”, rather than an ‘educator’, and Calmbirth as the master-key to unlocking your own strength and ability to birth your baby in the best way for you. Every single birth is incredible and unique and having had 3 children myself, I can attest to the fact that no two births are the same.

Emmy is a Registered Midwife and Registered Nurse with over 10 years experience in supporting women through all areas of their birthing and parenting journey.  Her particular passion is in Antenatal and Early Parenting Education and she is happiest when sharing her knowledge and accompanying couples on their own unique journey into parenthood.

She says, “It is my firm belief that every woman is born instinctively knowing how to give birth but societal norms have caused us to lose sight of this amazing, innate ability. As a result, we don’t fully trust our bodies to see the process through and women become weighed down by fear and anxiety.

“I see my role as a “re-educator”, rather than an ‘educator’, and Calmbirth as the master-key to unlocking your own strength and ability to birth your baby in the best way for you. Every single birth is incredible and unique and having had 3 children myself, I can attest to the fact that no two births are the same.

We LOVE getting testimonials 14 years later!!

This is a beautiful testimonial from one of Peter Jackson’s original Calmbirth couples, Karen Lobwein who did the Calmbirth course 14 years ago.

We LOVE getting testimonials 14 years later!!

This is a beautiful testimonial from one of Peter Jackson’s original Calmbirth couples, Karen Lobwein who did the Calmbirth course 14 years ago.

Gemma Pearce works as a Privately Practicing Midwife in her own business Village Midwifery. 

She says, “What I love most about being a Calmbirth Educator is to see Fear replaced with faith and admiration in the miracle, simplicity and nature of labour and birth.

“Seeing a baby being born makes me feel absolutely in awe of the nature of labour and birth and the strength and power of our bodies as women, I am always left feeling honoured and privileged to witness these incredible life events and the love and birth of families.” 
She says, “It is my firm belief that every woman is born instinctively knowing how to give birth but societal norms have caused us to lose sight of this amazing, innate ability. As a result, we don’t fully trust our bodies to see the process through and women become weighed down by fear and anxiety.

“I see my role as a “re-educator”, rather than an ‘educator’, and Calmbirth as the master-key to unlocking your own strength and ability to birth your baby in the best way for you. Every single birth is incredible and unique and having had 3 children myself, I can attest to the fact that no two births are the same.

Gemma Pearce works as a Privately Practicing Midwife in her own business Village Midwifery. 

She says, “What I love most about being a Calmbirth Educator is to see Fear replaced with faith and admiration in the miracle, simplicity and nature of labour and birth.

“Seeing a baby being born makes me feel absolutely in awe of the nature of labour and birth and the strength and power of our bodies as women, I am always left feeling honoured and privileged to witness these incredible life events and the love and birth of families.” 
She says, “It is my firm belief that every woman is born instinctively knowing how to give birth but societal norms have caused us to lose sight of this amazing, innate ability. As a result, we don’t fully trust our bodies to see the process through and women become weighed down by fear and anxiety.

“I see my role as a “re-educator”, rather than an ‘educator’, and Calmbirth as the master-key to unlocking your own strength and ability to birth your baby in the best way for you. Every single birth is incredible and unique and having had 3 children myself, I can attest to the fact that no two births are the same.

Working in the community meant that I was able to be a part of a woman’s pregnancy and birthing experience, often starting from week 6 of pregnancy, until their baby was 6 weeks old. 9 whole months! This meant that that I really got to understand the journey pregnant women and their families were on during this time – the excitement, the fears, the vulnerability, the overwhelm that can sometimes be a part of this transition into motherhood. I have come to realise the huge importance of good education and knowledge and I became really passionate about providing women and their support people with this. And the best part is being able to do this in a way that empowers, strengthens and excites them!

Working in the community meant that I was able to be a part of a woman’s pregnancy and birthing experience, often starting from week 6 of pregnancy, until their baby was 6 weeks old. 9 whole months! This meant that that I really got to understand the journey pregnant women and their families were on during this time – the excitement, the fears, the vulnerability, the overwhelm that can sometimes be a part of this transition into motherhood. I have come to realise the huge importance of good education and knowledge and I became really passionate about providing women and their support people with this. And the best part is being able to do this in a way that empowers, strengthens and excites them!

Anne Ludlow has been a midwife for over 20 years, having changed from a thoroughly enjoyable nursing career after having three children of her  own.

She says, “I have an immense passion for ensuring not only healthy bodies, but excellent mental well-being for the pregnant woman and her partner. A woman who goes through pregnancy in a calm, relaxed and confident way will not only have a better birth experience herself; her partner and baby will too!”

Anne’s background in nursing and midwifery is complemented by knowledge in psychology, education and counselling. She has conducted many antenatal classes, but having qualified as a Calmbirth educator, she knows how important it is for the pregnant woman to be in the best possible frame of mind when preparing to give birth.

Anne will be teaching the Calmbirth course at the Northern Beaches Hospital which will be launching at the Hospital shortly, so watch this space for dates. 

Anne Ludlow has been a midwife for over 20 years, having changed from a thoroughly enjoyable nursing career after having three children of her  own.

She says, “I have an immense passion for ensuring not only healthy bodies, but excellent mental well-being for the pregnant woman and her partner. A woman who goes through pregnancy in a calm, relaxed and confident way will not only have a better birth experience herself; her partner and baby will too!”

Anne’s background in nursing and midwifery is complemented by knowledge in psychology, education and counselling. She has conducted many antenatal classes, but having qualified as a Calmbirth educator, she knows how important it is for the pregnant woman to be in the best possible frame of mind when preparing to give birth.

Anne will be teaching the Calmbirth course at the Northern Beaches Hospital which will be launching at the Hospital shortly, so watch this space for dates. 

Ebony is the only Calmbirth® Educator in the picturesque Manning Valley region of NSW and she has been a Registered Midwife since 2018 and holds qualifications in Prenatal and Postnatal Yoga.

“I am a mother of two beautiful children, whose births transformed and inspired my life in ways I can not describe. Since the birth of my first child, my passion for education and empowerment for women and families around pregnancy, birth and beyond has only grown. After witnessing many births and experiencing birth itself, I can honestly say that the answer to a positive birth experience lies within yourself, and your educational and emotional preparation. During my classes I aim to offer women and their families a safe and nurturing space to gain the knowledge, confidence, and inner strength essential for childbirth and beyond.”

She says, “I am a firm believer in the idea that “healing birth, heals the earth”. Which is exactly why I have chosen to be an Educator with Calmbirth®, as our vision is to change our current birth culture to one that is talked about and experienced far more positively, now and for future generations.”

Ebony is the only Calmbirth® Educator in the picturesque Manning Valley region of NSW and she has been a Registered Midwife since 2018 and holds qualifications in Prenatal and Postnatal Yoga.

“I am a mother of two beautiful children, whose births transformed and inspired my life in ways I can not describe. Since the birth of my first child, my passion for education and empowerment for women and families around pregnancy, birth and beyond has only grown. After witnessing many births and experiencing birth itself, I can honestly say that the answer to a positive birth experience lies within yourself, and your educational and emotional preparation. During my classes I aim to offer women and their families a safe and nurturing space to gain the knowledge, confidence, and inner strength essential for childbirth and beyond.”

She says, “I am a firm believer in the idea that “healing birth, heals the earth”. Which is exactly why I have chosen to be an Educator with Calmbirth®, as our vision is to change our current birth culture to one that is talked about and experienced far more positively, now and for future generations.”

Alana Hurst has been a Midwife for 15 years and has now also become a Calmbirth Educator. What some of you may not know, or you may even recognise her as being our poster girl or the face for Calmbirth’s, There’s no birth like a Calmbirth campaign which features her very own birth of her daughter Poppy.

“I love my job and the incredible women, families, midwives and other health professionals I have the pleasure to work with. I have always loved sharing birth stories and helping prepare women and their families for bringing a baby in to their lives. I attended a Clambirth session when I was pregnant and I just loved everything about the course and couldn’t wait to become a facilitator. I am a mother to four children and in my spare time I am also a wedding celebrant and love nothing more than going for a run or a swim or reading a good book.”

Alana Hurst has been a Midwife for 15 years and has now also become a Calmbirth Educator. What some of you may not know, or you may even recognise her as being our poster girl or the face for Calmbirth’s, There’s no birth like a Calmbirth campaign which features her very own birth of her daughter Poppy.

“I love my job and the incredible women, families, midwives and other health professionals I have the pleasure to work with. I have always loved sharing birth stories and helping prepare women and their families for bringing a baby in to their lives. I attended a Clambirth session when I was pregnant and I just loved everything about the course and couldn’t wait to become a facilitator. I am a mother to four children and in my spare time I am also a wedding celebrant and love nothing more than going for a run or a swim or reading a good book.”

WHAT IS EPIGENETICS?

Epigenetics is an emerging area of scientific research that shows us how various influences affect the expression of our genes. At the heart of every cell in our body sits DNA which stores codes or information as chemicals, known as the epigenome (1,5).

During development, our unique epigenetic signaturecan determine how genes are expressed(5).The mechanism used by cells to control gene expression vital to embryo development is called DNA methylation. These signals can turn genes on or off. Researchers have linked abnormal DNA methylation to some diseases (7,8).

Our baby’s epigenome can be affected positively or negatively throughout pregnancy andmay determine their susceptibility to heart disease, obesity and cancer (15,5).Epigenetics also plays a major role in developing metabolism, brain architecture and even the behaviour of our offspring (13).

WHAT IS EPIGENETICS?

Epigenetics is an emerging area of scientific research that shows us how various influences affect the expression of our genes. At the heart of every cell in our body sits DNA which stores codes or information as chemicals, known as the epigenome (1,5).

During development, our unique epigenetic signaturecan determine how genes are expressed(5).The mechanism used by cells to control gene expression vital to embryo development is called DNA methylation. These signals can turn genes on or off. Researchers have linked abnormal DNA methylation to some diseases (7,8).

Our baby’s epigenome can be affected positively or negatively throughout pregnancy andmay determine their susceptibility to heart disease, obesity and cancer (15,5).Epigenetics also plays a major role in developing metabolism, brain architecture and even the behaviour of our offspring (13).