The Calmbirth® program embraces and accepts the beauty and power of our diversity in life, culture, love and family.
The Calmbirth® program embraces and accepts the beauty and power of our diversity in life, culture, love and family.
We all know Peter Jackson as the Midwife and Founder of the Calmbirth childbirth education program in Australia.
We all know Peter Jackson as the Midwife and Founder of the Calmbirth childbirth education program in Australia.
As a psychologist in Bowral NSW working in perinatal psychology (supporting mothers from the time of conception, through pregnancy and into early childhood) I appreciate very much that the local community have access to the Calmbirth childbirth education program in Mittagong.
As a psychologist in Bowral NSW working in perinatal psychology (supporting mothers from the time of conception, through pregnancy and into early childhood) I appreciate very much that the local community have access to the Calmbirth childbirth education program in Mittagong.
Celia lives in the Southern Highlands with her husband and two young children. She is passionate about the empowerment of women in pregnancy and birth and assists women to achieve this through prenatal yoga, meditation and acupuncture.
Celia lives in the Southern Highlands with her husband and two young children. She is passionate about the empowerment of women in pregnancy and birth and assists women to achieve this through prenatal yoga, meditation and acupuncture.
There are lots of exercises that are safe during training and your current training plan can be modified to allow you to continue training though out all stages of pregnancy.
There are lots of exercises that are safe during training and your current training plan can be modified to allow you to continue training though out all stages of pregnancy.
Why is childbirth so feared in our society? I know for certain that I’m not the only woman who has enjoyed her labour and births.
Why is childbirth so feared in our society? I know for certain that I’m not the only woman who has enjoyed her labour and births.
Preparing for parenthood, fatherhood and family life is A MUCH BIGGER TRANSITION than it may first seem.
Preparing for parenthood, fatherhood and family life is A MUCH BIGGER TRANSITION than it may first seem.
This Father’s Day, Fatherhood expert and author, Timothy O’Leary reflects on what fatherhood has meant to him over the years.
This Father’s Day, Fatherhood expert and author, Timothy O’Leary reflects on what fatherhood has meant to him over the years.
Today, pregnant couples all over Australia are lucky enough to have many choices about how and where they can birth their baby.
Today, pregnant couples all over Australia are lucky enough to have many choices about how and where they can birth their baby.
Cathie’s mental health was so dire that a psychologist suggested she get her tubes tied, but she hid it so well that even her obstetrician husband had no idea for two years.
Cathie’s mental health was so dire that a psychologist suggested she get her tubes tied, but she hid it so well that even her obstetrician husband had no idea for two years.
Lets be honest, being a mum is hard work. The demands that today’s mothers are under are different to those of generations that came before, being time poor is one such challenge. Each generation has its own story.
Lets be honest, being a mum is hard work. The demands that today’s mothers are under are different to those of generations that came before, being time poor is one such challenge. Each generation has its own story.
When I talk about the topic of birth preferences, the general feedback from people is “we have heard if you have a birth plan, it won’t go to plan”. Most feel that they will leave their birth in the capable hands of their care providers as “they know best” and are the experts.
When I talk about the topic of birth preferences, the general feedback from people is “we have heard if you have a birth plan, it won’t go to plan”. Most feel that they will leave their birth in the capable hands of their care providers as “they know best” and are the experts.
In today’s day and age, there is the expectation that men will attend the births of their children.
In today’s day and age, there is the expectation that men will attend the births of their children.
As time progresses, we as a society have made great progress in understanding women’s emotional state following childbirth, especially in delicate areas such as postnatal depression, so much so that as a society we are able to better recognised early signs of struggles and are able to provide support much quicker and provide the necessary assistance to start addressing this issue.
As time progresses, we as a society have made great progress in understanding women’s emotional state following childbirth, especially in delicate areas such as postnatal depression, so much so that as a society we are able to better recognised early signs of struggles and are able to provide support much quicker and provide the necessary assistance to start addressing this issue.
Here is list of some very useful and supportive organisations that look after your emotional and mental wellbeing during pregnancy, labour and the postnatal period.
Here is list of some very useful and supportive organisations that look after your emotional and mental wellbeing during pregnancy, labour and the postnatal period.
Here is list of some great books that will help you on your pregnancy, labour and birth journey as well as on your parenting journey.
Here is list of some great books that will help you on your pregnancy, labour and birth journey as well as on your parenting journey.
Here is list of some very useful and supportive organisations that look after your emotional and mental wellbeing after experiencing birth trauma.
Here is list of some very useful and supportive organisations that look after your emotional and mental wellbeing after experiencing birth trauma.
Here is list of some very useful and supportive Postnatal services.
Here is list of some very useful and supportive Postnatal services.
Other Recommended & Helpful Educational Courses for Parents
Other Recommended & Helpful Educational Courses for Parents
Support groups for LGBTIQA & Families
Support groups for LGBTIQA & Families
Here is list of some very useful and supportive organisations for Parents.
Here is list of some very useful and supportive organisations for Parents.
Here is list of some very useful and supportive Prenatal Services.
Here is list of some very useful and supportive Prenatal Services.
Here are some health, fitness and nutrition resources for pregnancy and post pregnancy
Here are some health, fitness and nutrition resources for pregnancy and post pregnancy
“You’ve always had the power my dear, you just had to learn it for yourself.” Glinda from The Wizard of OZ.What does the Wizard of OZ and Calmbirth have in common?Sitting and watching the legendary and classic movie “The Wizard of Oz” with my family, it dawned on me how many parallels can be drawn upon to the journey of labour, birth, parenting and our Calmbirth Program that enables and empowers couples to discover their own strength, courage and to trust themselves and each other. So, let me take you on this journey…
“You’ve always had the power my dear, you just had to learn it for yourself.” Glinda from The Wizard of OZ.What does the Wizard of OZ and Calmbirth have in common?Sitting and watching the legendary and classic movie “The Wizard of Oz” with my family, it dawned on me how many parallels can be drawn upon to the journey of labour, birth, parenting and our Calmbirth Program that enables and empowers couples to discover their own strength, courage and to trust themselves and each other. So, let me take you on this journey…
Riki Copper is a Limitless Mindset Coach who has been working with Bob Proctor and the Proctor Gallagher Institute sinice 2017 to change peoples lives with results that stick – helping people to live happier, healthier and wealthier lives.”OUR MISSION is to assist in raising the level of conscious awareness of every individual who we come into contact with. We do this through facilitating key learnings in a number of self study and mentor programs,” says Riki. As a Mindset Coach, Riki uses some of these principles and shares his knowledge with pregnant couples to help them create the birth they want by using techniques such as visualisation in childbirth and tools to help pregnant couples change their thoughts, perceptions and feelings about birth – to help them create the birth they want by getting them to focus on ‘on what the birth they want actually looks like for them.
Riki Copper is a Limitless Mindset Coach who has been working with Bob Proctor and the Proctor Gallagher Institute sinice 2017 to change peoples lives with results that stick – helping people to live happier, healthier and wealthier lives.”OUR MISSION is to assist in raising the level of conscious awareness of every individual who we come into contact with. We do this through facilitating key learnings in a number of self study and mentor programs,” says Riki. As a Mindset Coach, Riki uses some of these principles and shares his knowledge with pregnant couples to help them create the birth they want by using techniques such as visualisation in childbirth and tools to help pregnant couples change their thoughts, perceptions and feelings about birth – to help them create the birth they want by getting them to focus on ‘on what the birth they want actually looks like for them.
Up until now, the fourth trimester or otherwise known as the postpartum period was seldom talked about. Today, this post partum period has been recognised as crucial not only for the healthy development of the baby, but also for the healing of the mother after birth and the transition to parenthood for both mother and father/partner alike.This is why we are collaborating with experts in the field of perinatal mental health and wellbeing to continue to offer support and confidence to new parents who may be feeling challenged or even overwhelmed with the complexities and emotional journey that becoming new parents brings. We are working together with Rachel Bridge, a psychologist and author who shares our passion and values in supporting families on their postpartum journey by providing much needed resources and strategies to cope during this very fragile time in a new parent’s life.
Up until now, the fourth trimester or otherwise known as the postpartum period was seldom talked about. Today, this post partum period has been recognised as crucial not only for the healthy development of the baby, but also for the healing of the mother after birth and the transition to parenthood for both mother and father/partner alike.This is why we are collaborating with experts in the field of perinatal mental health and wellbeing to continue to offer support and confidence to new parents who may be feeling challenged or even overwhelmed with the complexities and emotional journey that becoming new parents brings. We are working together with Rachel Bridge, a psychologist and author who shares our passion and values in supporting families on their postpartum journey by providing much needed resources and strategies to cope during this very fragile time in a new parent’s life.
Thinking will not overcome FEAR but ACTION will.Given I am passionate about teaching couples how to remain calm during labour & birth, one would assume that I am always calm myself.When things go to plan life is beautiful; I am totally calm & confident. However, recently things didn’t go to plan and I found myself submerged in a sea of fear; drowning my natural abilities to go with the flow.
Thinking will not overcome FEAR but ACTION will.Given I am passionate about teaching couples how to remain calm during labour & birth, one would assume that I am always calm myself.When things go to plan life is beautiful; I am totally calm & confident. However, recently things didn’t go to plan and I found myself submerged in a sea of fear; drowning my natural abilities to go with the flow.
Pregnancy is usually a time of joy and nerves but the anxiety is only rising as the coronavirus continues to spread.Calm Birth owner Karen McClay tells Deborah Knight that the coronavirus is having a major impact on pregnant women. “There’s maternity units that are having to consider cutting down visitors and limiting who can actually go onto units as well, so there’s concern about what support people they can take with them.”She says they have tried to adjust to the new normal by moving programs online and using telehealth appointments.
Pregnancy is usually a time of joy and nerves but the anxiety is only rising as the coronavirus continues to spread.Calm Birth owner Karen McClay tells Deborah Knight that the coronavirus is having a major impact on pregnant women. “There’s maternity units that are having to consider cutting down visitors and limiting who can actually go onto units as well, so there’s concern about what support people they can take with them.”She says they have tried to adjust to the new normal by moving programs online and using telehealth appointments.
Due to the current threat of the Coronavirus and the increased risk of cross infection between class participants, all major maternity hospitals in Sydney have suspended face to face antenatal education classes.
It is anticipated that hospitals in other states will soon apply the same restrictions and private practitioners may also need to adopt the same boundaries. As a result of this pandemic, Calmbirth has come up with an innovative solution that enables pregnant couples, whose anxiety levels maybe peaking with all the uncertainties to still be able to access quality and evidence based childbirth education in a virtual classroom via ZOOM, where the couples can engage with other pregnant couples, their Calmbirth Educator as well as calm their fears about giving birth.
Due to the current threat of the Coronavirus and the increased risk of cross infection between class participants, all major maternity hospitals in Sydney have suspended face to face antenatal education classes.
It is anticipated that hospitals in other states will soon apply the same restrictions and private practitioners may also need to adopt the same boundaries. As a result of this pandemic, Calmbirth has come up with an innovative solution that enables pregnant couples, whose anxiety levels maybe peaking with all the uncertainties to still be able to access quality and evidence based childbirth education in a virtual classroom via ZOOM, where the couples can engage with other pregnant couples, their Calmbirth Educator as well as calm their fears about giving birth.
Hi, I’m Karen McClay, I’m the the owner Director of Calmbirth, Midwife, mother and Calmbirth Educator. Now more than ever it’s crucial for pregnant couples to empower themselves with the best quality and evidence based childbirth education to prepare for labour & birth, so that you can work together as a team to birth your baby. The skills and tools you will learn in Calmbirth are tools for life and will help you to deal with your heightened levels of fear, anxiety and stress, especially in these uncertain times as you navigate your way to becoming new parents.
Hi, I’m Karen McClay, I’m the the owner Director of Calmbirth, Midwife, mother and Calmbirth Educator. Now more than ever it’s crucial for pregnant couples to empower themselves with the best quality and evidence based childbirth education to prepare for labour & birth, so that you can work together as a team to birth your baby. The skills and tools you will learn in Calmbirth are tools for life and will help you to deal with your heightened levels of fear, anxiety and stress, especially in these uncertain times as you navigate your way to becoming new parents.
It’s a challenging time for everyone at the moment particularly for pregnant women and those who are soon to birth. So it is important as a birth partner you can be the best support person you can be!
It’s a challenging time for everyone at the moment particularly for pregnant women and those who are soon to birth. So it is important as a birth partner you can be the best support person you can be!
Currently 1 in 4 women are being induced in Australia.Inductions can increase:The need for medical pain relief most commonly epiduralVacuum or forceps deliveryEmergency Caesarean sectionsWhen deciding to have an induction we are often evaluating ‘risks’. this term alone can provoke fear or anxiety and can inhibit a woman’s ability to make an informed decision. There is an element of risk in everything we do and we all perceive it differently. In making a decision about induction we are balancing the pros and cons, based on evidence based information/statistics in relation to the mother and baby’s health. Equally important is the emotional impact on the Mother, her concerns, fears and anxiety about inducing or not need to be considered.
Currently 1 in 4 women are being induced in Australia.Inductions can increase:The need for medical pain relief most commonly epiduralVacuum or forceps deliveryEmergency Caesarean sectionsWhen deciding to have an induction we are often evaluating ‘risks’. this term alone can provoke fear or anxiety and can inhibit a woman’s ability to make an informed decision. There is an element of risk in everything we do and we all perceive it differently. In making a decision about induction we are balancing the pros and cons, based on evidence based information/statistics in relation to the mother and baby’s health. Equally important is the emotional impact on the Mother, her concerns, fears and anxiety about inducing or not need to be considered.
Times are really crazy and surreal at the moment and stress levels are high. There are things we can do though, to help manage our stress and anxiety during these times and finding ways to do this is important. Connecting with our breath is one way and the beautiful thing is that it’s easy to do, and we can do it whenever and wherever we need to.
Times are really crazy and surreal at the moment and stress levels are high. There are things we can do though, to help manage our stress and anxiety during these times and finding ways to do this is important. Connecting with our breath is one way and the beautiful thing is that it’s easy to do, and we can do it whenever and wherever we need to.
As a parent educator till recently I would walk into a room filled with becoming parents and with knowledge, experience, my presence, my voice and my hands I would deliver good quality education mixed with the groups involvement, hands on as well as a slight twist of humour and a tinge of a German accent. Only recently I found myself walking into my bedroom to sit in front of a screen to teach Calmbirth to couples.
As a parent educator till recently I would walk into a room filled with becoming parents and with knowledge, experience, my presence, my voice and my hands I would deliver good quality education mixed with the groups involvement, hands on as well as a slight twist of humour and a tinge of a German accent. Only recently I found myself walking into my bedroom to sit in front of a screen to teach Calmbirth to couples.
Perinatal, Child & Family Psychologist Services.
Perinatal, Child & Family Psychologist Services.
Rachel Bridge is a Perinatal, child and family psychologist and author.She is also one of our Calmbirth expert contributors that prepares Resources for our Calmbirth couples on topics ranging from the postpartum period, setting expectations & parenting to name a few.
Rachel Bridge is a Perinatal, child and family psychologist and author.She is also one of our Calmbirth expert contributors that prepares Resources for our Calmbirth couples on topics ranging from the postpartum period, setting expectations & parenting to name a few.
The one million dollar question we get asked every day since the COVID -19 restrictions came into place is, “When will Calmbirth be resuming face to face antenatal classes?” I wish the answer was that simple that we could give you a definite answer. Even with ‘talk’ of some restrictions being eased off, we still have to practice social distancing within a classroom environment. Here is the latest recommendations and guidelines from The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, that face to face antenatal courses are not recommended. So, don’t delay booking your Calmbirth ZOOM course and empowering yourself with knowledge and confidence to prepare for your birth because it looks like ZOOM will be here to stay for a while.
The one million dollar question we get asked every day since the COVID -19 restrictions came into place is, “When will Calmbirth be resuming face to face antenatal classes?” I wish the answer was that simple that we could give you a definite answer. Even with ‘talk’ of some restrictions being eased off, we still have to practice social distancing within a classroom environment. Here is the latest recommendations and guidelines from The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, that face to face antenatal courses are not recommended. So, don’t delay booking your Calmbirth ZOOM course and empowering yourself with knowledge and confidence to prepare for your birth because it looks like ZOOM will be here to stay for a while.
Welcome to the Calmbirth Conversation Series!!During these conversations I will be talking with experts in the birthing and parenting fields to provide you with information to make informed decisions for birthing and parenting journeys.
Welcome to the Calmbirth Conversation Series!!During these conversations I will be talking with experts in the birthing and parenting fields to provide you with information to make informed decisions for birthing and parenting journeys.
A great conversation with Karen McClay, Director of Calmbirth and Melinda Webb from The Birthing Webb about the Benefits of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Acupuncture for Pregnancy, Labour & Birth.
A great conversation with Karen McClay, Director of Calmbirth and Melinda Webb from The Birthing Webb about the Benefits of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Acupuncture for Pregnancy, Labour & Birth.
Listen to me on Ready Together and let’s work together to give you your best birth experience.
Listen to me on Ready Together and let’s work together to give you your best birth experience.
During this conversation, Karen McClay, Midwife & Director of Calmbirth chats with Melinda Webb from The Birthing Webb (https://www.melindawebb.com.au). Melinda is a Dr of Chinese Medicine, a Doula and a Calmbirth educator. Here they talk about Doulas’ and how they support couples and families during labour & birth.
During this conversation, Karen McClay, Midwife & Director of Calmbirth chats with Melinda Webb from The Birthing Webb (https://www.melindawebb.com.au). Melinda is a Dr of Chinese Medicine, a Doula and a Calmbirth educator. Here they talk about Doulas’ and how they support couples and families during labour & birth.
Our gorgeous Calmbirth Educator Kathy Kitzis who offers our Calmbirth program in France talks to ‘Interested Podcast’ about Calmbirth and her personal experience as a mother. It’s such a powerful interview!!!
Our gorgeous Calmbirth Educator Kathy Kitzis who offers our Calmbirth program in France talks to ‘Interested Podcast’ about Calmbirth and her personal experience as a mother. It’s such a powerful interview!!!
“As a professional working in the field of perinatal and parental mental health and parenting, I, in no way thought that I was above the mama experiences of unmet expectations or the all mighty ‘mother guilt’…I just thought since I knew the risk factors of perinatal mental health difficulty, I know the approaches that are helpful, I teach the skills and have experienced the journey with so many beautiful and inspirational mamas…. I thought, surely I would have this sorted!!!!!!! wow!!!!!!! was I in for surprise. TGhe intensity of the feelings bought on by these little beings is something I could have never prepared myself for. The rawness of the emotions felt as a mama caught me of guard like a blast of cold wind. the endless unconditional love, the mama bear like protectiveness, the self doubt, the sleep deprivation, the hormones, the relationship adjustments and the self and role adjustments have been and continue to be the most challenging, rewarding journey of my life”.
“As a professional working in the field of perinatal and parental mental health and parenting, I, in no way thought that I was above the mama experiences of unmet expectations or the all mighty ‘mother guilt’…I just thought since I knew the risk factors of perinatal mental health difficulty, I know the approaches that are helpful, I teach the skills and have experienced the journey with so many beautiful and inspirational mamas…. I thought, surely I would have this sorted!!!!!!! wow!!!!!!! was I in for surprise. TGhe intensity of the feelings bought on by these little beings is something I could have never prepared myself for. The rawness of the emotions felt as a mama caught me of guard like a blast of cold wind. the endless unconditional love, the mama bear like protectiveness, the self doubt, the sleep deprivation, the hormones, the relationship adjustments and the self and role adjustments have been and continue to be the most challenging, rewarding journey of my life”.
Story by Claire Heenan, Media & Communications at Homebirth NSW & a Sydney-based birth and postpartum doula Choosing where to give birth and whom you’d like on your birth team is a significantly loaded decision in terms of how you are going to feel about your pregnancy, birth and postpartum experience. Sometimes making a decision as important as this calls for starting with the vision in mind and asking yourself about the hopes and dreams you have for your birth. How do you visualise the birth of your baby? Are you hoping to avoid unnecessary intervention? Do you trust birth as a physiological journey? Of course, the evidence is important too, and as a doula and member of the Homebirth NSW committee, I am a big believer in marrying good quality evidence with a woman’s own intuitive knowing as to what will be best for her and her baby.”Babies being born where they are made. Midwives being ‘with woman’ in every sense. The woman, a warrior at the centre of her birth experience, handing her power to no one. Skin to skin in a woman’s own comfy bed, no rush or fuss. A baby, born into a warm, loving and familiar place; Home”, says Claire Heenan.
Story by Claire Heenan, Media & Communications at Homebirth NSW & a Sydney-based birth and postpartum doula Choosing where to give birth and whom you’d like on your birth team is a significantly loaded decision in terms of how you are going to feel about your pregnancy, birth and postpartum experience. Sometimes making a decision as important as this calls for starting with the vision in mind and asking yourself about the hopes and dreams you have for your birth. How do you visualise the birth of your baby? Are you hoping to avoid unnecessary intervention? Do you trust birth as a physiological journey? Of course, the evidence is important too, and as a doula and member of the Homebirth NSW committee, I am a big believer in marrying good quality evidence with a woman’s own intuitive knowing as to what will be best for her and her baby.”Babies being born where they are made. Midwives being ‘with woman’ in every sense. The woman, a warrior at the centre of her birth experience, handing her power to no one. Skin to skin in a woman’s own comfy bed, no rush or fuss. A baby, born into a warm, loving and familiar place; Home”, says Claire Heenan.
During this conversation, Karen McClay, Midwife & Director of Calmbirth chats with Lael Stone & Marion Rose from Aware Parenting about raising children with awareness and connection.
During this conversation, Karen McClay, Midwife & Director of Calmbirth chats with Lael Stone & Marion Rose from Aware Parenting about raising children with awareness and connection.
Find out what the ‘magic’ is about the Calmbirth program and experience it for yourself – WHY THERE’S NO BIRTH LIKE A CALMBIRTH “You’ve always had the power my dear, you just had to learn it for yourself.”Glinda from The Wizard of OZ.What does the Wizard of OZ and Calmbirth have in common?Sitting and watching the legendary and classic movie “The Wizard of Oz” with my family, it dawned on me how many parallels can be drawn upon to the journey of labour, birth, parenting and our Calmbirth Program that enables and empowers couples to discover their own strength, courage and to trust themselves and each other. So, let me take you on this journey…
Find out what the ‘magic’ is about the Calmbirth program and experience it for yourself – WHY THERE’S NO BIRTH LIKE A CALMBIRTH “You’ve always had the power my dear, you just had to learn it for yourself.”Glinda from The Wizard of OZ.What does the Wizard of OZ and Calmbirth have in common?Sitting and watching the legendary and classic movie “The Wizard of Oz” with my family, it dawned on me how many parallels can be drawn upon to the journey of labour, birth, parenting and our Calmbirth Program that enables and empowers couples to discover their own strength, courage and to trust themselves and each other. So, let me take you on this journey…
Tune in to this episode of the Calmbirth Conversation Podcast with Director Calmbirth, Karen McClay, who chats with Sophie Carroll, a women’s health physio from Enlightened Physiotherapy, about the importance of caring for your pelvic floor during pregnancy, including perineal massage, which in turn helps with labour and birth. They also then go on to talk about how to support the recovery of your pelvic floor once you’ve had your baby.
Tune in to this episode of the Calmbirth Conversation Podcast with Director Calmbirth, Karen McClay, who chats with Sophie Carroll, a women’s health physio from Enlightened Physiotherapy, about the importance of caring for your pelvic floor during pregnancy, including perineal massage, which in turn helps with labour and birth. They also then go on to talk about how to support the recovery of your pelvic floor once you’ve had your baby.
Are you looking for help with your baby or toddler’s sleep that is not sleep training? As we move through this year of drought, bush-fire, and COVID 19 on into the challenge of the 2020s, increasing numbers of parents are making a decision to avoid conventional sleep training methods.
This could be because they have tried sleep training and have decided it doesn’t work for their family. Experimenting is a great parenting strength and it makes sense that many of us experiment with what still remains the dominant approach to infant sleep.
Or it could be that parents have decided that sleep training doesn’t align with their parenting values. These values are unique to each parent and each family – and it is important to never judge another family’s decisions, since everyone wants to do the right thing by their child.
Are you looking for help with your baby or toddler’s sleep that is not sleep training? As we move through this year of drought, bush-fire, and COVID 19 on into the challenge of the 2020s, increasing numbers of parents are making a decision to avoid conventional sleep training methods.
This could be because they have tried sleep training and have decided it doesn’t work for their family. Experimenting is a great parenting strength and it makes sense that many of us experiment with what still remains the dominant approach to infant sleep.
Or it could be that parents have decided that sleep training doesn’t align with their parenting values. These values are unique to each parent and each family – and it is important to never judge another family’s decisions, since everyone wants to do the right thing by their child.
In this episode the Director of Calmbirth, Karen McClay, chats with Catherine Bell, a Birth Cartographer @birthmapping, about her book “The Birth Map”. This is a fantastic tool to assist women and their partners navigate their journey of birth.
The Birth Map enables them to open the lines of communication with each other and their caregivers and most importantly, make informed decisions for the best birth for not only themselves but for their babies.
In this episode the Director of Calmbirth, Karen McClay, chats with Catherine Bell, a Birth Cartographer @birthmapping, about her book “The Birth Map”. This is a fantastic tool to assist women and their partners navigate their journey of birth.
The Birth Map enables them to open the lines of communication with each other and their caregivers and most importantly, make informed decisions for the best birth for not only themselves but for their babies.
Being a soon to be mum is already pretty daunting and that is before COVID!
Being a mum of three, I’ve had three different birth experiences and being a midwife I’ve helped 100’s of soon to be mums go through this.
Being a soon to be mum is already pretty daunting and that is before COVID!
Being a mum of three, I’ve had three different birth experiences and being a midwife I’ve helped 100’s of soon to be mums go through this.
The birthing of a baby, and the birthing of a mother and of a father, is a significant transitional event in our lives. . A mothers experience of birth, can go onto shape her experiences of motherhood in its entirety. Her experiences of self, her experiences of her relationships (particularly the relationship with her baby), and her experiences of the world and how she feels supported, or unsupported in her journey of motherhood.
The birthing of a baby, and the birthing of a mother and of a father, is a significant transitional event in our lives. . A mothers experience of birth, can go onto shape her experiences of motherhood in its entirety. Her experiences of self, her experiences of her relationships (particularly the relationship with her baby), and her experiences of the world and how she feels supported, or unsupported in her journey of motherhood.
Listen to Karen McClay, Director of Calmbirth as she talks about how to prepare for a positve birth for @thenestcpr ‘s Ultimate Mothers Group. Karen covers everything you need to know on how to achieve a positive birth.
Listen to Karen McClay, Director of Calmbirth as she talks about how to prepare for a positve birth for @thenestcpr ‘s Ultimate Mothers Group. Karen covers everything you need to know on how to achieve a positive birth.
In this episode I chat with Professor Hannah Dahlen from Western Sydney University about the importance of choosing the best model of care and the right caregiver to support you with your wishes for your pregnancy and birth. We talk about why this decision is so important and what the latest research is showing. Happy listening…
The Birth Map enables them to open the lines of communication with each other and their caregivers and most importantly, make informed decisions for the best birth for not only themselves but for their babies.
In this episode I chat with Professor Hannah Dahlen from Western Sydney University about the importance of choosing the best model of care and the right caregiver to support you with your wishes for your pregnancy and birth. We talk about why this decision is so important and what the latest research is showing. Happy listening…
The Birth Map enables them to open the lines of communication with each other and their caregivers and most importantly, make informed decisions for the best birth for not only themselves but for their babies.
Tune in to this episode of the Calmbirth Conversation Podcast with Director Calmbirth, Karen McClay, who chats with @melindawebb_healthpractitioner about the benefits of Chinese Medicine and acupuncture for pregnancy, labour and birth.
Melinda is a Dr of Chinese Medicine, specialising in Women’s Health in Rozelle NSW. She also works closely with families as a Doula and Calmbirth Educator.
Tune in to this episode of the Calmbirth Conversation Podcast with Director Calmbirth, Karen McClay, who chats with @melindawebb_healthpractitioner about the benefits of Chinese Medicine and acupuncture for pregnancy, labour and birth.
Melinda is a Dr of Chinese Medicine, specialising in Women’s Health in Rozelle NSW. She also works closely with families as a Doula and Calmbirth Educator.
The messages are flowing, the visitors are frequent and there are huge smiles all round. You’ve just given birth to the most spectacular little human you have ever seen! Life is hectic and tiring, yet somehow you still feel a sense of energy and excitement when you gaze into those sparkling, curious eyes.
Quite quickly your new life settles into its new pattern. Partners go back to work, family and friends visit much less often, and the messages become a slow trickle rather than a tsunami. You are now feeling far more alone than you had ever expected. Who do you talk to? Who do you share your little victories with? What about navigating those inevitable challenges that come along with caring for a baby? Nobody told you how hard this really is.
The messages are flowing, the visitors are frequent and there are huge smiles all round. You’ve just given birth to the most spectacular little human you have ever seen! Life is hectic and tiring, yet somehow you still feel a sense of energy and excitement when you gaze into those sparkling, curious eyes.
Quite quickly your new life settles into its new pattern. Partners go back to work, family and friends visit much less often, and the messages become a slow trickle rather than a tsunami. You are now feeling far more alone than you had ever expected. Who do you talk to? Who do you share your little victories with? What about navigating those inevitable challenges that come along with caring for a baby? Nobody told you how hard this really is.
A testimonial from a Calmbirth couple, Christina Fortes & Noa Pitovao that were part of a pilot study at the Auckland City Hospital.
We are firm believers of Calmbirth
and sincerely hope we manage to encourage many more couples to attend,
and most of all, get the Auckland City Hospital to continue providing the Calmbirth course for free so it is accessible by all walks of life and not just those who have spare money floating about.
This pilot project is part of an initiative to support natural birth in Auckland City Hospital. To learn more and to register go to: http://pepi.adhb.govt.nz/
SEE if you qualify for a FREE Auckland DHB CALMBIRTH Course. To Learn more and to Register go to: http://pepi.adhb.govt.nz/
Tag and Tell ALL your pregnant friends in Auckland, NZ.
Melinda is a Dr of Chinese Medicine, specialising in Women’s Health in Rozelle NSW. She also works closely with families as a Doula and Calmbirth Educator.
A testimonial from a Calmbirth couple, Christina Fortes & Noa Pitovao that were part of a pilot study at the Auckland City Hospital.
We are firm believers of Calmbirth
and sincerely hope we manage to encourage many more couples to attend,
and most of all, get the Auckland City Hospital to continue providing the Calmbirth course for free so it is accessible by all walks of life and not just those who have spare money floating about.
This pilot project is part of an initiative to support natural birth in Auckland City Hospital. To learn more and to register go to: http://pepi.adhb.govt.nz/
SEE if you qualify for a FREE Auckland DHB CALMBIRTH Course. To Learn more and to Register go to: http://pepi.adhb.govt.nz/
Tag and Tell ALL your pregnant friends in Auckland, NZ.
Melinda is a Dr of Chinese Medicine, specialising in Women’s Health in Rozelle NSW. She also works closely with families as a Doula and Calmbirth Educator.
For part 3 of Clair Wind from the Mum Will Know Podcast mini series on Childbirth Education options, Claire speaks with Calmbirth director Karen McClay. Following in her father’s footsteps as a midwife and Calmbirth educator, Karen opens up how birth is not just about birthing a baby, but the birth of a mother too.
She delves into the importance of acknowledging the emotional side of birth and parenting and discusses how the event of giving birth is monumental in preparing a couple to face parenthood.
Karen shares exactly what to expect from a Calmbirth course and offers wisdom on the importance of education in all aspects of life
For part 3 of Clair Wind from the Mum Will Know Podcast mini series on Childbirth Education options, Claire speaks with Calmbirth director Karen McClay. Following in her father’s footsteps as a midwife and Calmbirth educator, Karen opens up how birth is not just about birthing a baby, but the birth of a mother too.
She delves into the importance of acknowledging the emotional side of birth and parenting and discusses how the event of giving birth is monumental in preparing a couple to face parenthood.
Karen shares exactly what to expect from a Calmbirth course and offers wisdom on the importance of education in all aspects of life
Dr Pamela Douglas is in conversation with Melbourne neonatologist Dr Danielle Freeman about breastfeeding in the first days and weeks of life and avoiding formula use in the days after the birth but still keeping baby safe.
Dr Pamela Douglas is in conversation with Melbourne neonatologist Dr Danielle Freeman about breastfeeding in the first days and weeks of life and avoiding formula use in the days after the birth but still keeping baby safe.
One of our biggest goals in the @Calmbirth Program is to give you and your partner tools to work with the challenges and stressors that can arise not only in labour but also parenting and your everyday life. So here is a quick and simple, but powerful tool to use whenever you may be feeling a little overwhelmed and stressed.
Have you ever noticed that you can’t sense and stress at the same time?
Just stop and think about it for a moment – you can’t sense and stress at the same time!
One of our biggest goals in the @Calmbirth Program is to give you and your partner tools to work with the challenges and stressors that can arise not only in labour but also parenting and your everyday life. So here is a quick and simple, but powerful tool to use whenever you may be feeling a little overwhelmed and stressed.
Have you ever noticed that you can’t sense and stress at the same time?
Just stop and think about it for a moment – you can’t sense and stress at the same time!
As a girl I grew up exposed to mainstream media in which birthing women on TV or in the movies were always portrayed to be screaming, swearing at their partners, and huffing and puffing whilst squeezing their partner’s hands so tightly, and pushing their babies out so hard that I thought that they would both pass out! Even today, with everything we know about birth, these prevalent stereotypical images become deeply ingrained in us as individuals, and in our culture, influencing our beliefs and perceptions of labour and birth – planting seeds of fear and doubt around giving birth.
But not all births are like that and nor do they have to be!
As a girl I grew up exposed to mainstream media in which birthing women on TV or in the movies were always portrayed to be screaming, swearing at their partners, and huffing and puffing whilst squeezing their partner’s hands so tightly, and pushing their babies out so hard that I thought that they would both pass out! Even today, with everything we know about birth, these prevalent stereotypical images become deeply ingrained in us as individuals, and in our culture, influencing our beliefs and perceptions of labour and birth – planting seeds of fear and doubt around giving birth.
But not all births are like that and nor do they have to be!
Mums-to-be and their birth partners can benefit from tips and techniques to enrich their birth experience when the highly-acclaimed Calmbirth education program begins at Nepean Hospital at the end of February.
Nepean Hospital is the only hospital in Western Sydney currently offering this well-regarded childbirth education program.
“Calmbirth gives women and caregivers the tools to promote positive birth, decrease stress and empower women by instilling them with confidence during birth,” says Nepean Hospital Clinical Midwifery Consultant, Justine Elliott.
“Midwives highly value the education the program provides women and we believe Calmbirth will be of real bene t to the expectant parents we care for.”
Mums-to-be and their birth partners can benefit from tips and techniques to enrich their birth experience when the highly-acclaimed Calmbirth education program begins at Nepean Hospital at the end of February.
Nepean Hospital is the only hospital in Western Sydney currently offering this well-regarded childbirth education program.
“Calmbirth gives women and caregivers the tools to promote positive birth, decrease stress and empower women by instilling them with confidence during birth,” says Nepean Hospital Clinical Midwifery Consultant, Justine Elliott.
“Midwives highly value the education the program provides women and we believe Calmbirth will be of real bene t to the expectant parents we care for.”
2021 brings new beginnings in NZ. Many without their family here due to COVID border restrictions, and they look to Calmbirth antenatal classes being offered for FREE as part of a Pilot Project at the Auckland City hospital to help them feel more at ease and prepared for their birth.
Calmbirth is being offered for FREE as a pilot project at the Auckland City Hospital. This pilot project is part of an initiative to support normal birth in Auckland City Hospital. With only months left to go before this pilot ends in June 2021, make sure you don’t miss out! To learn more and to register go to: http://pepi.adhb.govt.nz/
2021 brings new beginnings in NZ. Many without their family here due to COVID border restrictions, and they look to Calmbirth antenatal classes being offered for FREE as part of a Pilot Project at the Auckland City hospital to help them feel more at ease and prepared for their birth.
Calmbirth is being offered for FREE as a pilot project at the Auckland City Hospital. This pilot project is part of an initiative to support normal birth in Auckland City Hospital. With only months left to go before this pilot ends in June 2021, make sure you don’t miss out! To learn more and to register go to: http://pepi.adhb.govt.nz/
A highly acclaimed birth education program will be available for expectant mothers and their birth partners in February at Nepean Hospital. The only hospital in Western Sydney currently offering Calmbirth, the classes will provide tips and techniques to enhance the birthing experience.
Nepean Hospital is the only hospital in Western Sydney currently offering this well-regarded childbirth education program.
“Calmbirth gives women and caregivers the tools to promote positive birth, decrease stress and empower women by instilling them with confidence during birth,” says Nepean Hospital Clinical Midwifery Consultant, Justine Elliott.
“Midwives highly value the education the program provides women and we believe Calmbirth will be of real bene t to the expectant parents we care for.”
A highly acclaimed birth education program will be available for expectant mothers and their birth partners in February at Nepean Hospital. The only hospital in Western Sydney currently offering Calmbirth, the classes will provide tips and techniques to enhance the birthing experience.
Nepean Hospital is the only hospital in Western Sydney currently offering this well-regarded childbirth education program.
“Calmbirth gives women and caregivers the tools to promote positive birth, decrease stress and empower women by instilling them with confidence during birth,” says Nepean Hospital Clinical Midwifery Consultant, Justine Elliott.
“Midwives highly value the education the program provides women and we believe Calmbirth will be of real bene t to the expectant parents we care for.”
“It’s a different birth, you’ve got this”
Karen McClay is better known as the Director of Calmbirth but a lesser known fact about the registered midwife, nurse and mother of three is that she herself undertook her own VBAC journey. In today’s bonus episode we had the privilege of hearing that personal story.
Karen tells of her first birth and the emotions surrounding this initial caesarean. Karen talks about the complexity of this experience and how women on a VBAC journey are often forced to look back and examine their first birth experiences in a different way to others. Karen is also the daughter of Calmbirth founder, Peter Jackson and we hear of how the program evolved here in Australia.
“It’s a different birth, you’ve got this”
Karen McClay is better known as the Director of Calmbirth but a lesser known fact about the registered midwife, nurse and mother of three is that she herself undertook her own VBAC journey. In today’s bonus episode we had the privilege of hearing that personal story.
Karen tells of her first birth and the emotions surrounding this initial caesarean. Karen talks about the complexity of this experience and how women on a VBAC journey are often forced to look back and examine their first birth experiences in a different way to others. Karen is also the daughter of Calmbirth founder, Peter Jackson and we hear of how the program evolved here in Australia.
“Women have the right to make informed choices. They have the right to give and decline and withdraw consent at any point. Midwives and doctors should be able to support those rights without fear of persecution” – Jo Hunter
“Women have the right to make informed choices. They have the right to give and decline and withdraw consent at any point. Midwives and doctors should be able to support those rights without fear of persecution” – Jo Hunter
A testimonial from a Calmbirth mother, Lucy who had a beautiful baby girl, Dahlia born on the 30th January 2021 at Auckland City Hospital.
Lucy completed the Auckland City Hospital ADHB Calmbirth weekend course on the 5 & 6 December 2020.
She said the Calmbirth breathing techniques and all the knowledge & confidence she gained throughout the Calmbirth Program was pivotal in making her have a positive birth experience.
Calmbirth is being offered for FREE as a pilot project at the Auckland City Hospital. This pilot project is part of an initiative to support normal birth in Auckland City Hospital. With only months left to go before this pilot ends in June 2021, make sure you don’t miss out! To learn more and to register go to: http://pepi.adhb.govt.nz/
A testimonial from a Calmbirth mother, Lucy who had a beautiful baby girl, Dahlia born on the 30th January 2021 at Auckland City Hospital.
Lucy completed the Auckland City Hospital ADHB Calmbirth weekend course on the 5 & 6 December 2020.
She said the Calmbirth breathing techniques and all the knowledge & confidence she gained throughout the Calmbirth Program was pivotal in making her have a positive birth experience.
Calmbirth is being offered for FREE as a pilot project at the Auckland City Hospital. This pilot project is part of an initiative to support normal birth in Auckland City Hospital. With only months left to go before this pilot ends in June 2021, make sure you don’t miss out! To learn more and to register go to: http://pepi.adhb.govt.nz/
When it comes to birthing your baby there are 5 essential things you can do to make your birth a positive experience..Here are my top five: your mindset matters, knowledge is power, practice makes permanent, setting up your birth space/environment and knowing your birth rights and choices.
When it comes to birthing your baby there are 5 essential things you can do to make your birth a positive experience..Here are my top five: your mindset matters, knowledge is power, practice makes permanent, setting up your birth space/environment and knowing your birth rights and choices.
Sterile water injections work for over 85% of women with back pain in labour. They are quick, easy and safe.
Sterile water injections work for over 85% of women with back pain in labour. They are quick, easy and safe.
Looking for the ideal baby shower or mother’s day to be present?…Then look no further as Calmbirth has the perfect gift.
Looking for the ideal baby shower or mother’s day to be present?…Then look no further as Calmbirth has the perfect gift.
Birth quotes & affirmations are a wonderful tool to use when preparing for, and during labour and birth. Why? Because they are positive, powerful statements and words which inspire and empower you to think differently and to change your mindset.
Birth quotes & affirmations are a wonderful tool to use when preparing for, and during labour and birth. Why? Because they are positive, powerful statements and words which inspire and empower you to think differently and to change your mindset.
Vaginal bleeding (known as Lochia) is a normal part of giving birth, whether you have a vaginal birth or a Caesarean section birth. Lochia is made up of tissue, blood and mucous.
The bleeding is due to the placenta detaching from the wall of the uterus (after the birth of baby), where it was held in place by blood vessels that ran between the uterus and placenta. This leaves the blood vessels open, which causes the bleeding, whilst the uterus works hard to clamp them shut post birth and renew the lining of the uterus.
Vaginal bleeding (known as Lochia) is a normal part of giving birth, whether you have a vaginal birth or a Caesarean section birth. Lochia is made up of tissue, blood and mucous.
The bleeding is due to the placenta detaching from the wall of the uterus (after the birth of baby), where it was held in place by blood vessels that ran between the uterus and placenta. This leaves the blood vessels open, which causes the bleeding, whilst the uterus works hard to clamp them shut post birth and renew the lining of the uterus.
Here are some of Calmbirth’s most frequently asked questions we get from pregnant couples.
Here are some of Calmbirth’s most frequently asked questions we get from pregnant couples.
Tune in to this episode of the Calmbirth Conversation Podcast with Director Calmbirth, Karen McClay, who chats with the leading obstetrician here in Australia on breech birth delivery, Dr Andrew Bissett.
Tune in to this episode of the Calmbirth Conversation Podcast with Director Calmbirth, Karen McClay, who chats with the leading obstetrician here in Australia on breech birth delivery, Dr Andrew Bissett.
Tune in to this episode of the Calmbirth Conversation Podcast with Director Calmbirth, Karen McClay, who chats with Hazel Keedle, who is a VBAC Researcher, as well as a Lecturer and Academic Course Advisor of the Bachelor of Midwifery and PhD candidate in the School of Nursing and Midwifery at Western Sydney Univeristy. Hazel talks to Karen about VBAC.
Tune in to this episode of the Calmbirth Conversation Podcast with Director Calmbirth, Karen McClay, who chats with Hazel Keedle, who is a VBAC Researcher, as well as a Lecturer and Academic Course Advisor of the Bachelor of Midwifery and PhD candidate in the School of Nursing and Midwifery at Western Sydney Univeristy. Hazel talks to Karen about VBAC.
Hannah and her partner Tony welcomed their beautiful baby at home after participating in the Calmbirth Pilot Study in the Auckland City Hosptial in New Zealand.
Here they share their story and what they thought about the Calmbirth program.
Hannah and her partner Tony welcomed their beautiful baby at home after participating in the Calmbirth Pilot Study in the Auckland City Hosptial in New Zealand.
Here they share their story and what they thought about the Calmbirth program.
My name is Karen. I have worked as a Midwife for almost 30 years.
About 7 years ago I decided to take a position as a Community Midwife in Aboriginal health. My AMIHS (Aboriginal Maternal Infant Health Service) position allows me to see women in the antenatal period and up until 6 weeks post-partum. A job which is both challenging and extremely rewarding.
I work alongside an Aboriginal Health Practioner. Together we support all pregnant Aboriginal Women, as well as those Non Indigenous women having Aboriginal babies.
What we quickly realised in our community, was that breast feeding rates amongst our clients were extremely low.
Some of the reasons for not breast feeding identified were
“My mum, sister, aunty didn’t breast feed so why should I”
I won’t have enough milk.
Its “shame”
My name is Karen. I have worked as a Midwife for almost 30 years.
About 7 years ago I decided to take a position as a Community Midwife in Aboriginal health. My AMIHS (Aboriginal Maternal Infant Health Service) position allows me to see women in the antenatal period and up until 6 weeks post-partum. A job which is both challenging and extremely rewarding.
I work alongside an Aboriginal Health Practioner. Together we support all pregnant Aboriginal Women, as well as those Non Indigenous women having Aboriginal babies.
What we quickly realised in our community, was that breast feeding rates amongst our clients were extremely low.
Some of the reasons for not breast feeding identified were
“My mum, sister, aunty didn’t breast feed so why should I”
I won’t have enough milk.
Its “shame”
Calmbirth Director, Karen McClay chats with Perinatal, Child and Family Psychologist, Rachel Bridge about creating a safe, calm and private environment in the fourth trimester.
Calmbirth Director, Karen McClay chats with Perinatal, Child and Family Psychologist, Rachel Bridge about creating a safe, calm and private environment in the fourth trimester.
How do the combs work?
They are a simple, effective and wonderful pain management tool that help women in labour as they act as a powerful distraction or a focal point by activating the Gate Control Theory. Researchers have long observed that factors such as thoughts, emotions, and expectations can influence our perceptions of pain.
The Gate Control Theory of pain asserts that non-painful input closes the nerve “gates” to painful input, which prevents pain sensation from traveling to the central nervous system. The comb works on the Pain Gate Control Theory, distracting the brain which allows more of your attention to focus on the sensation of what is happening with your hand and away from the sensations of contractions.
How do the combs work?
They are a simple, effective and wonderful pain management tool that help women in labour as they act as a powerful distraction or a focal point by activating the Gate Control Theory. Researchers have long observed that factors such as thoughts, emotions, and expectations can influence our perceptions of pain.
The Gate Control Theory of pain asserts that non-painful input closes the nerve “gates” to painful input, which prevents pain sensation from traveling to the central nervous system. The comb works on the Pain Gate Control Theory, distracting the brain which allows more of your attention to focus on the sensation of what is happening with your hand and away from the sensations of contractions.
A single mum shares her gratitude on being given the opportunity to do the Calmbirth course as part of the Calmbirth Pilot Study at the Auckland City Hosptial.
Here is what she had to say:
A single mum shares her gratitude on being given the opportunity to do the Calmbirth course as part of the Calmbirth Pilot Study at the Auckland City Hosptial.
Here is what she had to say:
It’s World Breastfeeding Week! This year’s theme is: “Protect breastfeeding: a shared responsibility”. The theme highlights the importance of support – right from a nuclear level through to a more structural level, to enable women to achieve their breastfeeding goals, so that babies and infants can reach their optimal health.
It’s World Breastfeeding Week! This year’s theme is: “Protect breastfeeding: a shared responsibility”. The theme highlights the importance of support – right from a nuclear level through to a more structural level, to enable women to achieve their breastfeeding goals, so that babies and infants can reach their optimal health.
In episode 13 of the Calmbirth Conversation Podcast, Calmbirth Director, Karen McClay talks to the Founder of Possums & Co & Medical Director & lactation consultant, Pamela Douglas about how the work of Possums & Co helps prepare, educate and support families in the challenges of the first 12 months of their parenting journey with breastfeeding, baby sleep and cry fuss problems and parent mood and attachment.
In episode 13 of the Calmbirth Conversation Podcast, Calmbirth Director, Karen McClay talks to the Founder of Possums & Co & Medical Director & lactation consultant, Pamela Douglas about how the work of Possums & Co helps prepare, educate and support families in the challenges of the first 12 months of their parenting journey with breastfeeding, baby sleep and cry fuss problems and parent mood and attachment.
A Calmbirth couple share their gratitude on being given the opportunity to do the Calmbirth course as part of the Calmbirth Pilot Study at the Auckland City Hosptial.
A Calmbirth couple share their gratitude on being given the opportunity to do the Calmbirth course as part of the Calmbirth Pilot Study at the Auckland City Hosptial.
Thanks NZ calmbirth families for adapting to ZOOM.
Just like birth, sometimes things can change, unfold a way we didn’t expect. Thanks for remaining positive for yourselves and your babies, being open to learn a different way.
Open mind, is an open body.
“Things turn out the best for the people who make the best of the way things turn out” – Peter Jackson, founder of calmbirth.
During NZ Lockdown CALMBIRTH continues via ZOOM
– full weekends, 2 x Sundays, or 4x Evening sessions 6-9pm.
Thanks NZ calmbirth families for adapting to ZOOM.
Just like birth, sometimes things can change, unfold a way we didn’t expect. Thanks for remaining positive for yourselves and your babies, being open to learn a different way.
Open mind, is an open body.
“Things turn out the best for the people who make the best of the way things turn out” – Peter Jackson, founder of calmbirth.
During NZ Lockdown CALMBIRTH continues via ZOOM
– full weekends, 2 x Sundays, or 4x Evening sessions 6-9pm.
In Episode 14 of the Calmbirth Conversation Podcast, Karen McClay talks to Dr. Nicole Highet who is the Founder & Executive Director of COPE, the Centre of Perinatal Excellence and how COPE is providing support for the emotional challenges of becoming a parent.
In Episode 14 of the Calmbirth Conversation Podcast, Karen McClay talks to Dr. Nicole Highet who is the Founder & Executive Director of COPE, the Centre of Perinatal Excellence and how COPE is providing support for the emotional challenges of becoming a parent.
In Episode 15 of the Calmbirth Conversation Podcast, Calmbirth Director, Karen McClay talks to Dr Carla Brion & Nadia Parisi about the Golden Month – an in-home postpartum service they have created based on Traditional Chinese Medicine & Ayurvedic practices to nourish and nurture women in the postnatal period.
Dr Carla Brion is a Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Acupuncturist & Women’s Health Specialist while Nadia Parisi is a Women’s Health Massage Therapist, Fertility, Prenatal & Postnatal Yoga Teacher, Holistic Pelvic Care Practitioner – two dynamic women who are here to break the mould, shake things up & bring women the care that they really need. It takes a village to hold the mother. “We want to re-shape the postpartum care in our community, for our daughters & their daughters to come.”
In Episode 15 of the Calmbirth Conversation Podcast, Calmbirth Director, Karen McClay talks to Dr Carla Brion & Nadia Parisi about the Golden Month – an in-home postpartum service they have created based on Traditional Chinese Medicine & Ayurvedic practices to nourish and nurture women in the postnatal period.
Dr Carla Brion is a Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Acupuncturist & Women’s Health Specialist while Nadia Parisi is a Women’s Health Massage Therapist, Fertility, Prenatal & Postnatal Yoga Teacher, Holistic Pelvic Care Practitioner – two dynamic women who are here to break the mould, shake things up & bring women the care that they really need. It takes a village to hold the mother. “We want to re-shape the postpartum care in our community, for our daughters & their daughters to come.”
In Episode 16 of the Calmbirth Conversation Podcast Calmbirth Director, Karen McClay talks to our wonderful Calmbirth Educators and Yoga Instructors, Maja Batista and Karen Shlegeris about the benefits of pregnancy yoga in preparation for labour and birth.
In Episode 16 of the Calmbirth Conversation Podcast Calmbirth Director, Karen McClay talks to our wonderful Calmbirth Educators and Yoga Instructors, Maja Batista and Karen Shlegeris about the benefits of pregnancy yoga in preparation for labour and birth.
Our culture tends to view birth simply as a physical process of the female body, the mechanical opening of the uterus and cervix, then the expulsion of a baby from the uterus and out of the vagina. But birth is far more complex than this. For birth is just as much of the mind as it is of the body.
She is an absolute dream, and I can say a calm birth has lead to a calm baby! She is an absolute dream and we are loving being parents.
Our culture tends to view birth simply as a physical process of the female body, the mechanical opening of the uterus and cervix, then the expulsion of a baby from the uterus and out of the vagina. But birth is far more complex than this. For birth is just as much of the mind as it is of the body.
She is an absolute dream, and I can say a calm birth has lead to a calm baby! She is an absolute dream and we are loving being parents.
In episode 17 of the Calmbirth Conversation Podcast I talk to Dr. Sarah Buckley about Oxytocin and birth. Dr. Sarah Buckley is a GP/family physician with qualifications in GP-obstetrics and family planning. She is the mother of four home-born children, and currently combines motherhood with her work as a writer on pregnancy, birth, and parenting.
In episode 17 of the Calmbirth Conversation Podcast I talk to Dr. Sarah Buckley about Oxytocin and birth. Dr. Sarah Buckley is a GP/family physician with qualifications in GP-obstetrics and family planning. She is the mother of four home-born children, and currently combines motherhood with her work as a writer on pregnancy, birth, and parenting.
One of things we talk a lot about in Calmbirth is that Practice makes Permanent. This means that through our practice we create habits of doing (& thinking) and then the things that we practice become automatic and easy for us to do (& think). And the biggest tool that we encourage our couples to ‘make permanent’ is the Relaxation Response.
She is an absolute dream, and I can say a calm birth has lead to a calm baby! She is an absolute dream and we are loving being parents.
One of things we talk a lot about in Calmbirth is that Practice makes Permanent. This means that through our practice we create habits of doing (& thinking) and then the things that we practice become automatic and easy for us to do (& think). And the biggest tool that we encourage our couples to ‘make permanent’ is the Relaxation Response.
She is an absolute dream, and I can say a calm birth has lead to a calm baby! She is an absolute dream and we are loving being parents.
Mothers Milk Bank Charity is thrilled to be collaborating with Calmbirth to spread the word about our service and give parents the opportunity to learn about how they, as mothers, can donate their breastmilk milk as well as obtain donor breast milk as an ‘insurance policy’ just in case they need it.
We will be working together, providing pregnant women samples of their naturopathically designed lactation cookies and supporting women on their pregnancy and breastfeeding journey.
Mothers Milk Bank Charity is thrilled to be collaborating with Calmbirth to spread the word about our service and give parents the opportunity to learn about how they, as mothers, can donate their breastmilk milk as well as obtain donor breast milk as an ‘insurance policy’ just in case they need it.
We will be working together, providing pregnant women samples of their naturopathically designed lactation cookies and supporting women on their pregnancy and breastfeeding journey.
Choosing a care provider for your pregnancy can be confusingYet it is so important. Here’s a rundown of some of the options.
Choosing a care provider for your pregnancy can be confusingYet it is so important. Here’s a rundown of some of the options.
Pregnancy is a time of massive change – mentally, emotionally, hormonally, and biomechanically
It is also a time when many women look for other options to manage various health challenges during their pregnancy. Chiropractic care rates among the many that women choose during this time. The great thing about chiropractic care is that it is safe, gentle, and drug-free – things we all want in any intervention while pregnant.
As a chiropractor, it is both a responsibility and a privilege to care for increasing numbers of pregnant women as more and more of them seek out chiropractic care as part of their pregnancy plans.
This article explores some new research around the possible benefits of chiropractic care for pregnant women and offers a brief review of the broader picture of chiropractic care in this area.
Pregnancy is a time of massive change – mentally, emotionally, hormonally, and biomechanically
It is also a time when many women look for other options to manage various health challenges during their pregnancy. Chiropractic care rates among the many that women choose during this time. The great thing about chiropractic care is that it is safe, gentle, and drug-free – things we all want in any intervention while pregnant.
As a chiropractor, it is both a responsibility and a privilege to care for increasing numbers of pregnant women as more and more of them seek out chiropractic care as part of their pregnancy plans.
This article explores some new research around the possible benefits of chiropractic care for pregnant women and offers a brief review of the broader picture of chiropractic care in this area.
Today was a light bulb moment
Before heading off to a gorgeous winery with friends to celebrate our mumma to be, I had organised a little guessing game of ‘if you guess the DOB/gender you win a bottle of wine from the Yarra Valley’
As I was writing on the answer cards I thought up the idea of numbering each card. The number on the card represented what week postpartum each friend was going to be a go to support person for our friend in the early postpartum.
Today was a light bulb moment
Before heading off to a gorgeous winery with friends to celebrate our mumma to be, I had organised a little guessing game of ‘if you guess the DOB/gender you win a bottle of wine from the Yarra Valley’
As I was writing on the answer cards I thought up the idea of numbering each card. The number on the card represented what week postpartum each friend was going to be a go to support person for our friend in the early postpartum.
Oxytocin is the hormone of LOVE, associated with trust, empathy, relationship building, sexual activity, labour, birthing, breastfeeding and bonding!
Oxytocin is the hormone of LOVE, associated with trust, empathy, relationship building, sexual activity, labour, birthing, breastfeeding and bonding!
I have been an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant for 5 years now and will be re-certifying my LC certificate this year.
Being a Lactation Consultant has been hugely rewarding in my career as a Maternal and Child Health Nurse, having early access to women and their feeding journey within the first week of birth.
I have been an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant for 5 years now and will be re-certifying my LC certificate this year.
Being a Lactation Consultant has been hugely rewarding in my career as a Maternal and Child Health Nurse, having early access to women and their feeding journey within the first week of birth.
As a midwife, there is nothing worse! Read below 👇
There is nothing worse than seeing a partner or support person frantically rummaging around through a large suit case trying to find the one thing the woman wants or needs whilst in the throws of labour.
As a midwife, there is nothing worse! Read below 👇
There is nothing worse than seeing a partner or support person frantically rummaging around through a large suit case trying to find the one thing the woman wants or needs whilst in the throws of labour.
Have you started visualising your labour and birth yet?
Imagine the sensations, the feelings…
What is your partner/ support person doing to keep you centred and grounded?
What’s the mood and environment like?
Have you started visualising your labour and birth yet?
Imagine the sensations, the feelings…
What is your partner/ support person doing to keep you centred and grounded?
What’s the mood and environment like?
Have you considered your ride into hospital?
Here are some tips:
Have you considered your ride into hospital?
Here are some tips:
April is Caesarean Birth Awareness Month
Throughout this month I hope to generate awareness and shed some light on caesarean births. Firstly, I call them caesarean births not ‘sections’ as words hold power and no matter how your baby was born it is a birth – your birth.
April is Caesarean Birth Awareness Month
Throughout this month I hope to generate awareness and shed some light on caesarean births. Firstly, I call them caesarean births not ‘sections’ as words hold power and no matter how your baby was born it is a birth – your birth.
THE GOLDEN HOURS
From the time your baby is born and the first postpartum hours together
This is a sacred time.
Feeling safe, calm, private and undisturbed is paramount to this time
This is a time of great transition and adjustment
For Baby
For Mother
For the Family
THE GOLDEN HOURS
From the time your baby is born and the first postpartum hours together
This is a sacred time.
Feeling safe, calm, private and undisturbed is paramount to this time
This is a time of great transition and adjustment
For Baby
For Mother
For the Family
This theory was initially discovered by obstetrician Grantly Dick-Read in the 1920’s after observing women in labour. He noted that in an otherwise uncomplicated labour, it was the emotion of fear that caused complications. This theory has since been proven now that we understand the impact of the stress response on our body and hormones of labour and birth.
This theory was initially discovered by obstetrician Grantly Dick-Read in the 1920’s after observing women in labour. He noted that in an otherwise uncomplicated labour, it was the emotion of fear that caused complications. This theory has since been proven now that we understand the impact of the stress response on our body and hormones of labour and birth.
Here is some incredible info from @midwifethinking and @wait4white
“Wait for White” describes an umbilical cord which has completed its natural physiology (ceases pulsation) and is easily facilitated in the majority of births.
Here is some incredible info from @midwifethinking and @wait4white
“Wait for White” describes an umbilical cord which has completed its natural physiology (ceases pulsation) and is easily facilitated in the majority of births.
Bringing your baby home from hospital is a BIG deal!
So it’s okay to feel hesitant, unsure, overwhelmed, or unexcited by the concept of visitors in the early postpartum period.
From a primitive and survival stand point, really, it’s only YOU that your baby wants and needs ✨
A baby’s first environment is their mother.
A mother is also born.
Bringing your baby home from hospital is a BIG deal!
So it’s okay to feel hesitant, unsure, overwhelmed, or unexcited by the concept of visitors in the early postpartum period.
From a primitive and survival stand point, really, it’s only YOU that your baby wants and needs ✨
A baby’s first environment is their mother.
A mother is also born.
By Rachel Bridge
The journey into and through parenthood comes with so many expectations, from so many directions, well-meaning friends and family, health professionals, media, social media, as well as our own experiences and expectations of self.
When we begin stepping towards the journey of parenthood, hopes, dreams, desires start to surface. We envisage certain moments of our experience and how that may or may not look…the pregnancy announcement, the baby shower, maternity leave, birth, postpartum, pregnancy care, postpartum care, support, the list goes on.
By Rachel Bridge
The journey into and through parenthood comes with so many expectations, from so many directions, well-meaning friends and family, health professionals, media, social media, as well as our own experiences and expectations of self.
When we begin stepping towards the journey of parenthood, hopes, dreams, desires start to surface. We envisage certain moments of our experience and how that may or may not look…the pregnancy announcement, the baby shower, maternity leave, birth, postpartum, pregnancy care, postpartum care, support, the list goes on.
Partner and birth support people are vital for the birthing woman. I often acknowledge this responsibility early in my Calmbirth courses. Partners and birth support people, you have a big role to play. You are her person, her support, her advocate, her safe haven. Affirming words and holding space, believing she can will support physiological labour and birthing.
Partner and birth support people are vital for the birthing woman. I often acknowledge this responsibility early in my Calmbirth courses. Partners and birth support people, you have a big role to play. You are her person, her support, her advocate, her safe haven. Affirming words and holding space, believing she can will support physiological labour and birthing.
Coming to a Calmbirth course is great!
But it’s only one piece of the preparation puzzle.
Coming to a Calmbirth course is great!
But it’s only one piece of the preparation puzzle.
Have you started building your labour and birth playlist yet?
We do this for other epic life events and occasions. We need to put the same amount of love and effort into our labour and birth playlist as we would for a once in a lifetime road trip, a groovy dinner party, wedding.
Have you started building your labour and birth playlist yet?
We do this for other epic life events and occasions. We need to put the same amount of love and effort into our labour and birth playlist as we would for a once in a lifetime road trip, a groovy dinner party, wedding.
After spending A LOT of time in my feeding chair the past few weeks, it got me thinking about the feeding space and what has saved me from going bananas.
A fun fact…Breastfeeding for one year is approximately 1800 hours…
That’s a full-time job with 3 weeks annual leave…
No matter how you’re feeding your baby, you’ll be doing many feeds, cuddles, settling and sleeps here too!
After spending A LOT of time in my feeding chair the past few weeks, it got me thinking about the feeding space and what has saved me from going bananas.
A fun fact…Breastfeeding for one year is approximately 1800 hours…
That’s a full-time job with 3 weeks annual leave…
No matter how you’re feeding your baby, you’ll be doing many feeds, cuddles, settling and sleeps here too!
“One last surge and your baby will be here. You are almost there.”
A final grunt, and her baby’s shoulders and body are moved between the worlds into the waiting hands of a care provider, her partner, or the mother herself.
These two, mother and baby, know each other so intimately, yet are meeting for the first time.
A moment of silence. A small intake of breath. Then, a cry.
This child who has only known fluid, is now one of air.
It is just seconds of time. From the outside, we see barely anything, but internally, these seconds bring the most complex changes our bodies ever do.
“One last surge and your baby will be here. You are almost there.”
A final grunt, and her baby’s shoulders and body are moved between the worlds into the waiting hands of a care provider, her partner, or the mother herself.
These two, mother and baby, know each other so intimately, yet are meeting for the first time.
A moment of silence. A small intake of breath. Then, a cry.
This child who has only known fluid, is now one of air.
It is just seconds of time. From the outside, we see barely anything, but internally, these seconds bring the most complex changes our bodies ever do.
You have so many inner resources that you can draw upon and utilise to serve you well in labour and birth!
Here are some – Just to name a few.
You have so many inner resources that you can draw upon and utilise to serve you well in labour and birth!
Here are some – Just to name a few.
“You are going to influence the psychological and organic life of your patients today and that may continue 20 years from now. So, you had better know what you are saying. You had better be willing to reflect upon the words you use, to wonder what their meanings are and to seek out and understand their many associations.” This statement by Dr Milton Erickson is especially true for the language around birth.
“You are going to influence the psychological and organic life of your patients today and that may continue 20 years from now. So, you had better know what you are saying. You had better be willing to reflect upon the words you use, to wonder what their meanings are and to seek out and understand their many associations.” This statement by Dr Milton Erickson is especially true for the language around birth.
These can be such a powerful tool for birth.
The confidence boost you might need when it all feels too much.
Hearing those soft words whispered into your ear as you break between surges.
Reassurance that you’re doing it.
The encouragement to surrender.
A reminder to trust the process.
These can be such a powerful tool for birth.
The confidence boost you might need when it all feels too much.
Hearing those soft words whispered into your ear as you break between surges.
Reassurance that you’re doing it.
The encouragement to surrender.
A reminder to trust the process.
It’s World Breastfeeding Week. With this year’s theme: Educate and Support. But what does this mean?
It’s World Breastfeeding Week. With this year’s theme: Educate and Support. But what does this mean?
Pregnancy is about more than just growing a baby.
Sure, technically that’s what it’s about, but for your body it means so much more.
Every single system of your body needs to change in some way to keep you and your baby healthy. Seems drastic, maybe, but growing new humans is a pretty drastic undertaking, wouldn’t you say?
There are of course a thousand different changes your body goes through during pregnancy, but here are 5 systems and the fascinating ways your body adapts them for pregnancy and to prepare for birth.
Happy reading!
Pregnancy is about more than just growing a baby.
Sure, technically that’s what it’s about, but for your body it means so much more.
Every single system of your body needs to change in some way to keep you and your baby healthy. Seems drastic, maybe, but growing new humans is a pretty drastic undertaking, wouldn’t you say?
There are of course a thousand different changes your body goes through during pregnancy, but here are 5 systems and the fascinating ways your body adapts them for pregnancy and to prepare for birth.
Happy reading!
When I am teaching parents about birth I intentionally include a picture of a baby when they are first born – many people are surprised by their initial colour! I find that in the first day after birth, one of the most common questions I get asked is about the colour of their baby’s hands and feet. We’re tackling these concepts in this blog post, so read on for more!
When I am teaching parents about birth I intentionally include a picture of a baby when they are first born – many people are surprised by their initial colour! I find that in the first day after birth, one of the most common questions I get asked is about the colour of their baby’s hands and feet. We’re tackling these concepts in this blog post, so read on for more!
To the family and friends that make up a new parents’ village,
There are few things that are more exciting than when one of your loved ones grows a new family member. There is a special responsibility that comes with being close to new parents, and ones that may well bring a shift in your relationship. You are entrusted to listen without judgement, to love them through their transformation into parenthood, and to pursue them through it. You are part of their village, and whether it’s their first baby or their thirteenth, there are lots of ways you can help. If you are new to the village (or a village veteran!) and want some tips, know that your thoughtfulness has already brought you halfway there! See below for more great ways to love on new parents.
To the family and friends that make up a new parents’ village,
There are few things that are more exciting than when one of your loved ones grows a new family member. There is a special responsibility that comes with being close to new parents, and ones that may well bring a shift in your relationship. You are entrusted to listen without judgement, to love them through their transformation into parenthood, and to pursue them through it. You are part of their village, and whether it’s their first baby or their thirteenth, there are lots of ways you can help. If you are new to the village (or a village veteran!) and want some tips, know that your thoughtfulness has already brought you halfway there! See below for more great ways to love on new parents.
Breastmilk is a living tissue (just like blood/ plasma and bone marrow)
Breastmilk is a living tissue (just like blood/ plasma and bone marrow)
In labour, if we stay out of our critical and analytical part of our brain, surrendering to the primitive and instinctual brain, we place ourselves in a state of growth.
In labour, if we stay out of our critical and analytical part of our brain, surrendering to the primitive and instinctual brain, we place ourselves in a state of growth.
Did you know that how often your baby needs to feed is based on your own unique breastmilk storage capacity and milk synthesis rate? Neither of these factors are up for manipulation and are unique to each mother/baby dyad.
Did you know that how often your baby needs to feed is based on your own unique breastmilk storage capacity and milk synthesis rate? Neither of these factors are up for manipulation and are unique to each mother/baby dyad.
I’m not crying, you’re crying…
Bianca & Mitch,
Your story is everything. Your words, your strength, your power. Thank you for sharing your journey. ‘with knowledge, comes confidence’ – Calmbirth
Hey Jess! Hope you have been well. Just thought I’d update you on some very exciting news and share with you my very positive birth story!
My baby boy couldn’t wait any longer and was born 3 weeks and a day early! Introducing Julian Gregory Napoleone, born 18.8.22
I got the natural birth I wanted and I whole heartedly believe it’s the learnings from your class that made that possible. Your class also gave my partner Mitch the tools and understanding to be the perfect support person throughout. We are so grateful we did your class and we cannot thank you enough.
I’m not crying, you’re crying…
Bianca & Mitch,
Your story is everything. Your words, your strength, your power. Thank you for sharing your journey. ‘with knowledge, comes confidence’ – Calmbirth
Hey Jess! Hope you have been well. Just thought I’d update you on some very exciting news and share with you my very positive birth story!
My baby boy couldn’t wait any longer and was born 3 weeks and a day early! Introducing Julian Gregory Napoleone, born 18.8.22
I got the natural birth I wanted and I whole heartedly believe it’s the learnings from your class that made that possible. Your class also gave my partner Mitch the tools and understanding to be the perfect support person throughout. We are so grateful we did your class and we cannot thank you enough.
