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.  

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.

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.

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.

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.  

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. 

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

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.”

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! “

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!”

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.

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.

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).

Laura is a Calmbirth educator and also works as a midwife at the Gold Coast University Hospital.

“I am passionate about pregnancy and birth and I take joy in assisting couples to prepare for the birth of their baby. I originally became interested in Calmbirth, many years ago when a woman I met described giving birth as ecstatic and blissful. I thought “How could anyone describe birth and labour like that?!” After hearing this I had to find out more, so I attended a course during my second pregnancy. This course changed my life. I came away thinking that this was something every pregnant couple should be able to learn and I made the decision to become a midwife.

Laura is a Calmbirth educator and also works as a midwife at the Gold Coast University Hospital.

“I am passionate about pregnancy and birth and I take joy in assisting couples to prepare for the birth of their baby. I originally became interested in Calmbirth, many years ago when a woman I met described giving birth as ecstatic and blissful. I thought “How could anyone describe birth and labour like that?!” After hearing this I had to find out more, so I attended a course during my second pregnancy. This course changed my life. I came away thinking that this was something every pregnant couple should be able to learn and I made the decision to become a midwife.

Bridget has been a midwife for 17 years. She has worked in Sydney, Orange and is now based in Newcastle, in all areas of pregnancy birth and beyond. Bridget will be a teaching Calmbirth at the John Hunter Hospital in Newcastle starting from July and she can’t wait to share her knowledge and passion with pregnant couples from the Newcastle and surrounding areas. 

“It is such a privilege to get to know women and their families and be present at such an exciting moment in their lives. I love my job! 

“I became intrigued by Calmbirth when I saw how empowered and fearless women were during their births and I loved doing the course for my own pregnancies. 

“I’m excited to help families experience their birth with strength, knowledge and belief in themselves. I know a positive headspace can drastically improve birth outcomes and I want that for everyone. I love that Calmbirth celebrates every birth, no matter how that unfolds. Hope to see you in my classes. Can’t wait to be part of one of the best days of your lives.” 

Bridget has been a midwife for 17 years. She has worked in Sydney, Orange and is now based in Newcastle, in all areas of pregnancy birth and beyond. Bridget will be a teaching Calmbirth at the John Hunter Hospital in Newcastle starting from July and she can’t wait to share her knowledge and passion with pregnant couples from the Newcastle and surrounding areas. 

“It is such a privilege to get to know women and their families and be present at such an exciting moment in their lives. I love my job! 

“I became intrigued by Calmbirth when I saw how empowered and fearless women were during their births and I loved doing the course for my own pregnancies. 

“I’m excited to help families experience their birth with strength, knowledge and belief in themselves. I know a positive headspace can drastically improve birth outcomes and I want that for everyone. I love that Calmbirth celebrates every birth, no matter how that unfolds. Hope to see you in my classes. Can’t wait to be part of one of the best days of your lives.” 

Kylie has been working as a midwife since 2017.  Prior to becoming a midwife she was a paediatric nurse with over 20 years experience.  She has worked in all areas of midwifery but has now chosen to work in the Labour Ward as she loves supporting women and their partners in labour and experiencing the joy of birth. 

“I feel it is a privilege to be part of something so beautiful,  life changing and transformational.  I simply love my work. 

Kylie has been working as a midwife since 2017.  Prior to becoming a midwife she was a paediatric nurse with over 20 years experience.  She has worked in all areas of midwifery but has now chosen to work in the Labour Ward as she loves supporting women and their partners in labour and experiencing the joy of birth. 

“I feel it is a privilege to be part of something so beautiful,  life changing and transformational.  I simply love my work. 

Christine is a registered midwife, registered nurse, a neurodevelopment consultant and an immuniser.

“I have an amazing little boy who is the highlight of my life. One of my most memorable accomplishments was presenting at the International Lactation Conference in San Antonio Texas in 2010. I love adventure, being outdoors, spending time with family and friends and filming. I won a prize with my first short film I made.

“My passion in life has always been caring for and empowering families and individuals in Australia and overseas. I have nursed in many different areas including paediatrics, paediatric cancer ward, NICU, adult med./surg. and now midwifery. My diverse experience has given me the opportunity to view life and everything in it from many different lenses and that there are many ways to approach our life journeys. Calmbirth mimics my values and beliefs and for this reason I have proudly joined the Calmbirth educator team. It is truly a privilege to be able to help empower birthing couples to approach their birthing journey with greater understanding, less fear and anxiety and increased confidence to have a positive experience during one of the most important times in their lives. “

Christine is a registered midwife, registered nurse, a neurodevelopment consultant and an immuniser.

“I have an amazing little boy who is the highlight of my life. One of my most memorable accomplishments was presenting at the International Lactation Conference in San Antonio Texas in 2010. I love adventure, being outdoors, spending time with family and friends and filming. I won a prize with my first short film I made.

“My passion in life has always been caring for and empowering families and individuals in Australia and overseas. I have nursed in many different areas including paediatrics, paediatric cancer ward, NICU, adult med./surg. and now midwifery. My diverse experience has given me the opportunity to view life and everything in it from many different lenses and that there are many ways to approach our life journeys. Calmbirth mimics my values and beliefs and for this reason I have proudly joined the Calmbirth educator team. It is truly a privilege to be able to help empower birthing couples to approach their birthing journey with greater understanding, less fear and anxiety and increased confidence to have a positive experience during one of the most important times in their lives. “

Aimee Sing is a doula, lactation consultant (IBCLC), researcher, infant massage and baby yoga practitioner and mum to 3 beautiful children. She lives in the beautiful Blue Mountains, where she was born and now raises her own young family. 

She says, “I am a self-confessed birth nerd, having fallen in love with all things pregnancy and birth during my first birth journey, and believe that unbiased information and support are the keys to positive pregnancy, birth and postpartum experiences. I’ve supported hundreds of women throughout their pregnancy, birth and postnatal periods, and in my lactation work, have spent thousands of hours providing mother-to-mother support with compassion and empathy. 

Aimee Sing is a doula, lactation consultant (IBCLC), researcher, infant massage and baby yoga practitioner and mum to 3 beautiful children. She lives in the beautiful Blue Mountains, where she was born and now raises her own young family. 

She says, “I am a self-confessed birth nerd, having fallen in love with all things pregnancy and birth during my first birth journey, and believe that unbiased information and support are the keys to positive pregnancy, birth and postpartum experiences. I’ve supported hundreds of women throughout their pregnancy, birth and postnatal periods, and in my lactation work, have spent thousands of hours providing mother-to-mother support with compassion and empathy. 

Emma is a Nurse, Midwife and passionate Calmbirth Educator located in Hobart. She became a midwife because of her passion to support and empower women through pregnancy, labour, birth and the postpartum period and she does this by working as a Continuity of Care midwife in Hobart.

She says, “But it wasn’t until I supported a woman who had attended a Calmbirth course that I witnessed how calmly and confidently a baby could be birthed into the world. It was at that moment that I realised how important knowledge was during birth and how powerful women truly are when fully aware of their incredible bodies.

“My goal  is to teach as many families as I can about the body and birth as a natural, physiological process, providing them with tools to support and work with their bodies during their birth, whatever their journey looks like.

“Through the knowledge and tools that Calmbirth teaches I look forward to demystifying birth, reducing any anxieties or fears and working towards a community who admire and feel confident and empowered from all births.”

Emma is a Nurse, Midwife and passionate Calmbirth Educator located in Hobart. She became a midwife because of her passion to support and empower women through pregnancy, labour, birth and the postpartum period and she does this by working as a Continuity of Care midwife in Hobart.

She says, “But it wasn’t until I supported a woman who had attended a Calmbirth course that I witnessed how calmly and confidently a baby could be birthed into the world. It was at that moment that I realised how important knowledge was during birth and how powerful women truly are when fully aware of their incredible bodies.

“My goal  is to teach as many families as I can about the body and birth as a natural, physiological process, providing them with tools to support and work with their bodies during their birth, whatever their journey looks like.

“Through the knowledge and tools that Calmbirth teaches I look forward to demystifying birth, reducing any anxieties or fears and working towards a community who admire and feel confident and empowered from all births.”

Amy is a registered Nurse, Midwife, Maternal and Child Health Nurse, IBCLC Lactation Consultant and Calmbirth Educator based in Melbourne. She has been caring for women, children and the wider family in both the hospital and community setting for over 10 years.
I first came across Calmbirth when caring for women in labour and birth as a Midwife. I was amazed at how informed, calm and welcoming these birthing women and their partners/ support team were! I noticed how different these couples approached the day of welcoming their baby into the world. There was not fear and panic, the couples who had attended the Calmbirth course evoked a strong and positive mindset, a clear vision of their labour and birthing experience and had also discussed and planned their birth preferences and wishes. The couples who had attended the Calmbirth course were often very informed and equipped with their own strategies as the labour amplified to new levels. As a midwife, I stood in awe of these willing women, supportive partners and intimate holding circle of support, working together as an epic birthing team. The women welcomed the sensations of a progressing labour and were confident in bringing their baby’s into the world. These were amazing labour and births to be a part of and a privilege to witness as a Midwife.

“With knowledge comes confidence”…this could not be more true!

In 2019, when it came to preparing for my first labour and birth, I too attended the Calmbirth course. The philosophy and evidence-based content was perfectly aligned with my values and in supporting my positive mindset surrounding physiological labour and birth. Although knowing much of the theory already due to being a Midwife, the course further developed my confidence in my body and the amazing ability to birth. My partner thoroughly enjoyed the course, preparing him of the work involved and equipped him with strategies to support me. Since the course, I have experienced two positive and transformative births and we are now proud parents of two beautiful daughters!

Amy is a registered Nurse, Midwife, Maternal and Child Health Nurse, IBCLC Lactation Consultant and Calmbirth Educator based in Melbourne. She has been caring for women, children and the wider family in both the hospital and community setting for over 10 years.
I first came across Calmbirth when caring for women in labour and birth as a Midwife. I was amazed at how informed, calm and welcoming these birthing women and their partners/ support team were! I noticed how different these couples approached the day of welcoming their baby into the world. There was not fear and panic, the couples who had attended the Calmbirth course evoked a strong and positive mindset, a clear vision of their labour and birthing experience and had also discussed and planned their birth preferences and wishes. The couples who had attended the Calmbirth course were often very informed and equipped with their own strategies as the labour amplified to new levels. As a midwife, I stood in awe of these willing women, supportive partners and intimate holding circle of support, working together as an epic birthing team. The women welcomed the sensations of a progressing labour and were confident in bringing their baby’s into the world. These were amazing labour and births to be a part of and a privilege to witness as a Midwife.

“With knowledge comes confidence”…this could not be more true!

In 2019, when it came to preparing for my first labour and birth, I too attended the Calmbirth course. The philosophy and evidence-based content was perfectly aligned with my values and in supporting my positive mindset surrounding physiological labour and birth. Although knowing much of the theory already due to being a Midwife, the course further developed my confidence in my body and the amazing ability to birth. My partner thoroughly enjoyed the course, preparing him of the work involved and equipped him with strategies to support me. Since the course, I have experienced two positive and transformative births and we are now proud parents of two beautiful daughters!

Kirsty is a midwife, nurse, Calmbirth Educator, mum to a beautiful boy and passionate about all things pregnancy, birth and postpartum.

As a midwife I have the amazing privilege of supporting couples as they embark on this incredible journey to parenthood. I’ve been with many families during this raw, life changing moment and I still feel in awe at every birth!

I became a Calmbirth Educator because I wanted to find a way to help couples feel empowered, strong and present for the birth of their baby. I’ve witnessed how creating positive birthing conversations can help women realise how powerful they truly are and embrace their incredible bodies. Every birth is unique and although you cannot plan exactly what will happen on the day, you can prepare.

One of the things l Iove about Calmbirth is it’s not about a specific type of birth but about giving couples the knowledge and tools to create a positive birth experience, regardless of the twists and turns their birth journey may take. This was reinforced with my own birth – caesarean at 37 weeks, which was not the birth I had initially envisioned or planned, but was such a positive, empowering, wonderfully life changing experience. I want all women to feel like this at their birth – whatever their own journey looks like.

Through teaching Calmbirth I hope to reach as many families as I can, to help them feel knowledgeable, empowered and excited about their upcoming birth. I truly believe in Calmbirth’s ethos ‘with knowledge comes confidence’ and I look forward to demystifying birth and giving couples the tools and understanding to navigate their individual birth journey and meet their baby with joy!

Kirsty is a midwife, nurse, Calmbirth Educator, mum to a beautiful boy and passionate about all things pregnancy, birth and postpartum.

As a midwife I have the amazing privilege of supporting couples as they embark on this incredible journey to parenthood. I’ve been with many families during this raw, life changing moment and I still feel in awe at every birth!

I became a Calmbirth Educator because I wanted to find a way to help couples feel empowered, strong and present for the birth of their baby. I’ve witnessed how creating positive birthing conversations can help women realise how powerful they truly are and embrace their incredible bodies. Every birth is unique and although you cannot plan exactly what will happen on the day, you can prepare.

One of the things l Iove about Calmbirth is it’s not about a specific type of birth but about giving couples the knowledge and tools to create a positive birth experience, regardless of the twists and turns their birth journey may take. This was reinforced with my own birth – caesarean at 37 weeks, which was not the birth I had initially envisioned or planned, but was such a positive, empowering, wonderfully life changing experience. I want all women to feel like this at their birth – whatever their own journey looks like.

Through teaching Calmbirth I hope to reach as many families as I can, to help them feel knowledgeable, empowered and excited about their upcoming birth. I truly believe in Calmbirth’s ethos ‘with knowledge comes confidence’ and I look forward to demystifying birth and giving couples the tools and understanding to navigate their individual birth journey and meet their baby with joy!

Bec Rogers is a wife, a mother and has been a midwife for over 11 years practicing her entire career where she trained at the Royal North Shore Hospital in Sydney.

“I started out early into my midwifery career practicing as a group practice midwife (MGP) shortly after graduating. It was during these years I witnessed the incredible difference Calmbirth can have on a woman’s birth experience and journey into motherhood. I used to recommend a baby moon down to Bowral for the weekend, attending a Calmbirth course, to all my women and partners I cared for. Most attended, and as a result the difference was seen in so many women’s birth experience’s through the confidence they had in their body, and ability to trust in the process of birth and surrender to the empowering incredible journey that birth and motherhood truly is.

“I myself also had the pleasure of attending Peter Jackson’s class back in 2013 before the birth of my first daughter, and remain incredibly grateful for the knowledge and skills I learnt prior to giving birth. I went into the experience with extended knowledge, confidence to make informed decisions, and trust in my body’s ability to birth my baby exactly as intended.  As a result, I have had two very relaxed, calm and fearless and empowering water births, welcoming both my daughters earth side. 

“Three years ago I made the tree change to the Southern =Highlands and haven’t looked back. This change has opened up career opportunities including becoming a Calmbirth educator and now working along-side both Karen and Peter, a bit of a pinch myself career moment.” 

Bec Rogers is a wife, a mother and has been a midwife for over 11 years practicing her entire career where she trained at the Royal North Shore Hospital in Sydney.

“I started out early into my midwifery career practicing as a group practice midwife (MGP) shortly after graduating. It was during these years I witnessed the incredible difference Calmbirth can have on a woman’s birth experience and journey into motherhood. I used to recommend a baby moon down to Bowral for the weekend, attending a Calmbirth course, to all my women and partners I cared for. Most attended, and as a result the difference was seen in so many women’s birth experience’s through the confidence they had in their body, and ability to trust in the process of birth and surrender to the empowering incredible journey that birth and motherhood truly is.

“I myself also had the pleasure of attending Peter Jackson’s class back in 2013 before the birth of my first daughter, and remain incredibly grateful for the knowledge and skills I learnt prior to giving birth. I went into the experience with extended knowledge, confidence to make informed decisions, and trust in my body’s ability to birth my baby exactly as intended.  As a result, I have had two very relaxed, calm and fearless and empowering water births, welcoming both my daughters earth side. 

“Three years ago I made the tree change to the Southern =Highlands and haven’t looked back. This change has opened up career opportunities including becoming a Calmbirth educator and now working along-side both Karen and Peter, a bit of a pinch myself career moment.” 

Bec Eadie is a Registered Midwife, Nurse, and Calmbirth Educator. She is passionate about empowering families through education, to help them navigate pregnancy, birth and the postpartum period. Bec also holds a Masters in Public Health, and qualifications as a Yoga instructor, with additional certificates in Prenatal and Postnatal Yoga.

“I believe that positive birth experiences come in many forms, and education is one of the best ways to prepare for your biggest adventure yet! As a midwife, I have been looking after women and their families across a variety of settings for over 7 years. I also have two children (and a fur-baby) of my own who continue to teach me new lessons about parenting every day.

“I first came across Calmbirth as a student midwife, I could see the impact the course had on opening the lines of communication between couples, giving them confidence to make informed decisions during their labour and birth, and approaching the experience with a strong and positive mindset. A few years down the line, while planning for my own VBAC, I made Calmbirth an important part of my birth preparation. In all honesty, I thought it would be most beneficial for my husband, as I was already a midwife and I thought I had all the information I needed. However, Calmbirth really allowed me to take my midwife hat off, and view my birth as a completely unique experience, giving me the tools to turn off my analytical mind when I needed to and really embrace the whole amazing birth experience. The evidence-based education program not only helped us make informed decisions, but also gave us the tools to work through some of the more challenging physical aspects of labour and birth. After my transformative second birth, I knew that I wanted to become a Calmbirth educator.”

Bec Eadie is a Registered Midwife, Nurse, and Calmbirth Educator. She is passionate about empowering families through education, to help them navigate pregnancy, birth and the postpartum period. Bec also holds a Masters in Public Health, and qualifications as a Yoga instructor, with additional certificates in Prenatal and Postnatal Yoga.

“I believe that positive birth experiences come in many forms, and education is one of the best ways to prepare for your biggest adventure yet! As a midwife, I have been looking after women and their families across a variety of settings for over 7 years. I also have two children (and a fur-baby) of my own who continue to teach me new lessons about parenting every day.

“I first came across Calmbirth as a student midwife, I could see the impact the course had on opening the lines of communication between couples, giving them confidence to make informed decisions during their labour and birth, and approaching the experience with a strong and positive mindset. A few years down the line, while planning for my own VBAC, I made Calmbirth an important part of my birth preparation. In all honesty, I thought it would be most beneficial for my husband, as I was already a midwife and I thought I had all the information I needed. However, Calmbirth really allowed me to take my midwife hat off, and view my birth as a completely unique experience, giving me the tools to turn off my analytical mind when I needed to and really embrace the whole amazing birth experience. The evidence-based education program not only helped us make informed decisions, but also gave us the tools to work through some of the more challenging physical aspects of labour and birth. After my transformative second birth, I knew that I wanted to become a Calmbirth educator.”

My name is Amy. I’m a registered Nurse, Midwife, Maternal and Child Health Nurse, International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) and now a Calmbirth Educator.

Becoming a Calmbirth Educator feels like I am returning to the genuine roots of midwifery, coming full circle back to pregnancy care – educating and empowering woman, partners and support people in preparation for their upcoming labour and birth. Continuing my professional development and educating others has always been a passion and joy of mine. If I had not been accepted into nursing at university, my next career preference was teaching! I am so glad nursing chose me

My name is Amy. I’m a registered Nurse, Midwife, Maternal and Child Health Nurse, International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) and now a Calmbirth Educator.

Becoming a Calmbirth Educator feels like I am returning to the genuine roots of midwifery, coming full circle back to pregnancy care – educating and empowering woman, partners and support people in preparation for their upcoming labour and birth. Continuing my professional development and educating others has always been a passion and joy of mine. If I had not been accepted into nursing at university, my next career preference was teaching! I am so glad nursing chose me

Chloe Neville is a registered midwife and passionate childbirth Calmbirth educator!

“I began studying midwifery almost by accident, but I really believe now that it was meant for me all along. I am continually astonished by women – their innate abilities, their power and their triumphs as they grow, birth and nurture their babies.

Chloe Neville is a registered midwife and passionate childbirth Calmbirth educator!

“I began studying midwifery almost by accident, but I really believe now that it was meant for me all along. I am continually astonished by women – their innate abilities, their power and their triumphs as they grow, birth and nurture their babies.

Ruth is a registered midwife and child birth educator working in Hobart. She is passionate about inspiring and empowering women during their pregnancy and childbirth journey.

“My wish for you is to learn to trust your body’s own innate wisdom and support you to birth your baby without fear.

“I have been supporting women to birth in hospitals, birth centres and at home for over a decade, and I believe birth is the most profound experience in a woman’s life. With knowledge, preparation, and support, it can be an incredibly joyful, empowering, and transformative journey.

Ruth is a registered midwife and child birth educator working in Hobart. She is passionate about inspiring and empowering women during their pregnancy and childbirth journey.

“My wish for you is to learn to trust your body’s own innate wisdom and support you to birth your baby without fear.

“I have been supporting women to birth in hospitals, birth centres and at home for over a decade, and I believe birth is the most profound experience in a woman’s life. With knowledge, preparation, and support, it can be an incredibly joyful, empowering, and transformative journey.

“I grew up in South America and have clear memories of my mother and grandmother going out into the jungle late at night to help deliver babies. I spent a childhood at the feet of my grandmothers, deeply absorbed in the tales of their midnight deliveries.
“When I studied nursing I knew, without a doubt, that one day I would be a midwife and follow in the footsteps of both my grandmothers. I am honoured to continue their legacy.

“I grew up in South America and have clear memories of my mother and grandmother going out into the jungle late at night to help deliver babies. I spent a childhood at the feet of my grandmothers, deeply absorbed in the tales of their midnight deliveries.
“When I studied nursing I knew, without a doubt, that one day I would be a midwife and follow in the footsteps of both my grandmothers. I am honoured to continue their legacy.

Denise Round is a midwife, Calmbirth Educator and so much more. Her passion about pregnancy, birth and beyond, has led her to having a career that has spanned across all fields of Midwifery, Child & Family Health, Lactation Consultancy, Education; as well as working with and supporting new families as they transition and grow into their role as parents.

Denise says, “I believe that when a baby is born, so is a mother; and that this incredible transformation unfolds throughout birth .

“When women and their partners are given the knowledge and understanding of how the mind and body are connected; and how they can access and work with their inner recourses, they approach birth free from fear, no matter how it unfolds. They can then work together physically, spiritually and emotionally to meet their baby ,and travel together through their right of passage into parenting with love  and joy.”

Denise Round is a midwife, Calmbirth Educator and so much more. Her passion about pregnancy, birth and beyond, has led her to having a career that has spanned across all fields of Midwifery, Child & Family Health, Lactation Consultancy, Education; as well as working with and supporting new families as they transition and grow into their role as parents.

Denise says, “I believe that when a baby is born, so is a mother; and that this incredible transformation unfolds throughout birth .

“When women and their partners are given the knowledge and understanding of how the mind and body are connected; and how they can access and work with their inner recourses, they approach birth free from fear, no matter how it unfolds. They can then work together physically, spiritually and emotionally to meet their baby ,and travel together through their right of passage into parenting with love  and joy.”

Jess Boland is a Registered Nurse, Registered Midwife, IBCLC Lactation Consultant, Postpartum Doula, Calmbirth Educator, Wife and Mother.

“I have always had a passion for working with women, children and families and have spent the last decade gathering knowledge, experience, skills and even more enthusiasm for this field of work. I have had the privilege of supporting numerous couples through pregnancy, birth and beyond working as an MGP midwife for the last 6years. MGP model of care provides birthing couples continuity and a space to fulfil physiological birthing. From this I have witnessed the power of the mind and body and when a woman is able to surrender to this process, the beauty of it all.

“My aim is always to empower women, promote normalcy of birth, provide a safe, calm and private space and support them to believe in themselves, their body, their baby and the process. This offers them the opportunity for a positive and joyful experience no matter how their journey transpires and the community to admire and feel confident and empowered by birth. To change the narrative and culture around pregnancy, birth, postpartum and parenting to one of positivity, confidence and empowerment.

Jess Boland is a Registered Nurse, Registered Midwife, IBCLC Lactation Consultant, Postpartum Doula, Calmbirth Educator, Wife and Mother.

“I have always had a passion for working with women, children and families and have spent the last decade gathering knowledge, experience, skills and even more enthusiasm for this field of work. I have had the privilege of supporting numerous couples through pregnancy, birth and beyond working as an MGP midwife for the last 6years. MGP model of care provides birthing couples continuity and a space to fulfil physiological birthing. From this I have witnessed the power of the mind and body and when a woman is able to surrender to this process, the beauty of it all.

“My aim is always to empower women, promote normalcy of birth, provide a safe, calm and private space and support them to believe in themselves, their body, their baby and the process. This offers them the opportunity for a positive and joyful experience no matter how their journey transpires and the community to admire and feel confident and empowered by birth. To change the narrative and culture around pregnancy, birth, postpartum and parenting to one of positivity, confidence and empowerment.

Karen Keefe is a registered midwife with over 13 years experience, and she has practiced in a variety of contexts in Aotearoa New Zealand and Australia, including homebirth and hospital birthing spaces in various roles.

She says, “I became a registered Calmbirth® Educator in 2022 and loved learning about, and now teaching and promoting, the Calmbirth® philosophy and knowledge. It is wonderful to help equip women and partners so that they may tap into their mind, body and birth connection, feeling empowered to achieve their very best birth and transition to parenthood – no matter how the journey unfolds.

“Prior to my midwifery journey I was a certified doula in California and Hawaii. Outside of the birthwork space I am an avid wilderness photographer, a yoga teacher, regularly go out bushwalking and camping, enjoy meeting and connecting with birthworkers all over the world, and spend my time helping to protect wilderness places as well as help look after canine and feline fur babies for others. One day I’d love to learn to be a rescue wildlife carer.  I look forward to sharing Calmbirth® with you!”

Karen Keefe is a registered midwife with over 13 years experience, and she has practiced in a variety of contexts in Aotearoa New Zealand and Australia, including homebirth and hospital birthing spaces in various roles.

She says, “I became a registered Calmbirth® Educator in 2022 and loved learning about, and now teaching and promoting, the Calmbirth® philosophy and knowledge. It is wonderful to help equip women and partners so that they may tap into their mind, body and birth connection, feeling empowered to achieve their very best birth and transition to parenthood – no matter how the journey unfolds.

“Prior to my midwifery journey I was a certified doula in California and Hawaii. Outside of the birthwork space I am an avid wilderness photographer, a yoga teacher, regularly go out bushwalking and camping, enjoy meeting and connecting with birthworkers all over the world, and spend my time helping to protect wilderness places as well as help look after canine and feline fur babies for others. One day I’d love to learn to be a rescue wildlife carer.  I look forward to sharing Calmbirth® with you!”

I first discovered Calmbirth while working as a Midwife in the hospital and seeing firsthand the impact it had on a couple’s ability to approach birth with excitement and without overwhelming fear, confidently make informed choices, and support themselves in a range of ways that led to more positive outcomes. I have also completed my Master’s in Public Health, so I was interested to see that the evidence also reflected what I was seeing in the hospital, that couples who attended Calmbirth courses seemed to have lower intervention rates and higher overall satisfaction with their birth experience. It wasn’t until I was preparing for my own VBAC (vaginal birth after caesarean) that I started to consider Calmbirth as part of my personal birth preparation.

I first discovered Calmbirth while working as a Midwife in the hospital and seeing firsthand the impact it had on a couple’s ability to approach birth with excitement and without overwhelming fear, confidently make informed choices, and support themselves in a range of ways that led to more positive outcomes. I have also completed my Master’s in Public Health, so I was interested to see that the evidence also reflected what I was seeing in the hospital, that couples who attended Calmbirth courses seemed to have lower intervention rates and higher overall satisfaction with their birth experience. It wasn’t until I was preparing for my own VBAC (vaginal birth after caesarean) that I started to consider Calmbirth as part of my personal birth preparation.

Beth is a nurse and midwife, local to Swan Hill. ” Becoming a midwife and providing antenatal care drove my passion to become a Calmbirth educator, when I found that in a clinic setting there just isn’t enough time to really help families become empowered with unbiased, evidence-based education.”

“My goal is to leave families with the power in their hands, to make true informed decisions about their pregnancy, birth and beyond and to feel confident doing so.

“By teaching Calmbirth, I aim to build confidence in birthing parents to achieve the most empowering birth possible, through any scenario!”

Beth is a nurse and midwife, local to Swan Hill. ” Becoming a midwife and providing antenatal care drove my passion to become a Calmbirth educator, when I found that in a clinic setting there just isn’t enough time to really help families become empowered with unbiased, evidence-based education.”

“My goal is to leave families with the power in their hands, to make true informed decisions about their pregnancy, birth and beyond and to feel confident doing so.

“By teaching Calmbirth, I aim to build confidence in birthing parents to achieve the most empowering birth possible, through any scenario!”

My passion and drive has always been to promote and encourage a positive birth experience for all. Trusting, and encouraging all women and partners that I meet to have faith and belief, that their body and their baby knows exactly what the right (and therefore perfect) birth is for them.

It is clearly obvious to most birth professionals on a birthing suite which pregnant couples have immersed themselves in the knowledge to assist them on their birthing journey. Calmbirth, to me, is the missing link for many people to empower them on their journey together as a couple to meet their baby and ultimately start their new life as a family.

My passion and drive has always been to promote and encourage a positive birth experience for all. Trusting, and encouraging all women and partners that I meet to have faith and belief, that their body and their baby knows exactly what the right (and therefore perfect) birth is for them.

It is clearly obvious to most birth professionals on a birthing suite which pregnant couples have immersed themselves in the knowledge to assist them on their birthing journey. Calmbirth, to me, is the missing link for many people to empower them on their journey together as a couple to meet their baby and ultimately start their new life as a family.

Sheridan, who is a Registered midwife and nurse, supports pregnant women and couples in Wangaratta and says, “Being present whilst people become parents is one of the greatest privileges of my life!

“It is an absolute joy to bring Calmbirth childbirth education course to the birthing community of Benalla and surrounds! My goal is to contribute to positive birth experiences for you, your partner and your baby through childbirth education. I will help do this through Calmbirth with Sheridan where we will exchange any fears around birth with knowledge and confidence for this special time in your life.

“When I’m not relishing in all things midwifery, I am busy raising the next generation of Geelong Cats supporters. You can also find me in my garden taking too many photos of my dog and veggie patch.

 “I can’t wait to celebrate and share the magic of labour and birth with you.”

Sheridan, who is a Registered midwife and nurse, supports pregnant women and couples in Wangaratta and says, “Being present whilst people become parents is one of the greatest privileges of my life!

“It is an absolute joy to bring Calmbirth childbirth education course to the birthing community of Benalla and surrounds! My goal is to contribute to positive birth experiences for you, your partner and your baby through childbirth education. I will help do this through Calmbirth with Sheridan where we will exchange any fears around birth with knowledge and confidence for this special time in your life.

“When I’m not relishing in all things midwifery, I am busy raising the next generation of Geelong Cats supporters. You can also find me in my garden taking too many photos of my dog and veggie patch.

 “I can’t wait to celebrate and share the magic of labour and birth with you.”

Jess is a registered midwife and registered nurse.and as a midwife she has supported many women and families during their pregnancies and attended many amazing births. She says, “In my experience I have witnessed just how calmly and confidently women labour and birth when they are informed and prepared.

Jess is a registered midwife and registered nurse.and as a midwife she has supported many women and families during their pregnancies and attended many amazing births. She says, “In my experience I have witnessed just how calmly and confidently women labour and birth when they are informed and prepared.

Mel Scott has been a Midwife for over 15 years and Lactation Consultant for over 7 years. She is also a mum of 4 and wife to 1!

She has worked across both the public and private hospital settings and most recently works at a GPO practice in Albany, Western Australia and says she feels it is a privilege to work with parents and their babies in this time of life where things can sometimes be uncertain or unchartered.

“I feel that here at Calmbirth we have the advantage of empowering women and their partners to make the decisions they need to for this journey they are going on. My focus will be on a small group of couples so that you have the opportunity to ask any questions you want, to get to know others going through the same thing you are.

Mel Scott has been a Midwife for over 15 years and Lactation Consultant for over 7 years. She is also a mum of 4 and wife to 1!

She has worked across both the public and private hospital settings and most recently works at a GPO practice in Albany, Western Australia and says she feels it is a privilege to work with parents and their babies in this time of life where things can sometimes be uncertain or unchartered.

“I feel that here at Calmbirth we have the advantage of empowering women and their partners to make the decisions they need to for this journey they are going on. My focus will be on a small group of couples so that you have the opportunity to ask any questions you want, to get to know others going through the same thing you are.

I love stories.  Reading them, watching them, listening to them. I even love singing and dancing them.  I especially love birth stories.  I’m excited to have the opportunity, through Calmbirth, to help you start your own birth story.  Investing in a Calmbirth course will provide you with the knowledge, confidence, and tools that you need to be the author of your birth story.  Calmbirth will also give you the ability to handle any plot twists that may come your way.  To learn more about the course click on the following links What to expect and Why Calmbirth?

Let me tell you a little of my own story…

I became fascinated with pregnancy and birth when I was a nursing student.  My good friends were having their first baby and they invited me to sit in on an antenatal appointment.  The moment I heard that baby heart beat I was hooked!  I returned to university to study midwifery as soon as I could, and I’ve not looked back.   I love working at the local hospital and meeting new parents and their babies, witnessing part of their birthing story and the beginning of their parenting journey.  I’m absolutely delighted to be able to work closer with couples though Calmbirth.   I love talking about pregnancy, birth and caring for little people and I often get teased by my husband, and business partner, for talking about birth when I am supposed to be serving in our shop, and from my children when I stop wherever we are to admire babies and pregnant bellies and ask questions of both little people and parents.

I love stories.  Reading them, watching them, listening to them. I even love singing and dancing them.  I especially love birth stories.  I’m excited to have the opportunity, through Calmbirth, to help you start your own birth story.  Investing in a Calmbirth course will provide you with the knowledge, confidence, and tools that you need to be the author of your birth story.  Calmbirth will also give you the ability to handle any plot twists that may come your way.  To learn more about the course click on the following links What to expect and Why Calmbirth?

Let me tell you a little of my own story…

I became fascinated with pregnancy and birth when I was a nursing student.  My good friends were having their first baby and they invited me to sit in on an antenatal appointment.  The moment I heard that baby heart beat I was hooked!  I returned to university to study midwifery as soon as I could, and I’ve not looked back.   I love working at the local hospital and meeting new parents and their babies, witnessing part of their birthing story and the beginning of their parenting journey.  I’m absolutely delighted to be able to work closer with couples though Calmbirth.   I love talking about pregnancy, birth and caring for little people and I often get teased by my husband, and business partner, for talking about birth when I am supposed to be serving in our shop, and from my children when I stop wherever we are to admire babies and pregnant bellies and ask questions of both little people and parents.

Even before I started midwifery, I have always had an admiration for and curiosity of the human body. I have completed a Bachelors degree in Medical and Health Science, in the hopes of one day becoming a doctor. However when I stumbled upon midwifery I quickly learned that this would be the right path for me. After witnessing my first birth in my first year as a student midwife I fell in love with midwifery, and still to this day I am in such awe every time I see a baby born into this world.

Even before I started midwifery, I have always had an admiration for and curiosity of the human body. I have completed a Bachelors degree in Medical and Health Science, in the hopes of one day becoming a doctor. However when I stumbled upon midwifery I quickly learned that this would be the right path for me. After witnessing my first birth in my first year as a student midwife I fell in love with midwifery, and still to this day I am in such awe every time I see a baby born into this world.

Miriam Hart is a Registered Midwife with experience working in Maternity in both the public and private sectors.  She also has experience working as a Midwife in an Early Parenting Unit.

“I completed my Bachelor of Midwifery as a mature-age student. During this time I experienced many models of care from Homebirth, Midwifery Group Practice, and the public and private hospital maternity system.  I have always been in awe of how incredible women’s bodies are and how amazing it is that we can not only grow a baby but also birth and nurture a baby.  Having a Dutch background (which has the highest rate of homebirths) I have often wondered how birth has become so medicalised and feared in different countries and cultures.

“I became a Calmbirth educator because I want to support women and their partners to feel confident and empowered during their pregnancy, labour, and birth. One of the things l love about Calmbirth is it gives couples the knowledge and tools to create a positive birth experience, regardless of the path that their birth journey may take.”

Miriam Hart is a Registered Midwife with experience working in Maternity in both the public and private sectors.  She also has experience working as a Midwife in an Early Parenting Unit.

“I completed my Bachelor of Midwifery as a mature-age student. During this time I experienced many models of care from Homebirth, Midwifery Group Practice, and the public and private hospital maternity system.  I have always been in awe of how incredible women’s bodies are and how amazing it is that we can not only grow a baby but also birth and nurture a baby.  Having a Dutch background (which has the highest rate of homebirths) I have often wondered how birth has become so medicalised and feared in different countries and cultures.

“I became a Calmbirth educator because I want to support women and their partners to feel confident and empowered during their pregnancy, labour, and birth. One of the things l love about Calmbirth is it gives couples the knowledge and tools to create a positive birth experience, regardless of the path that their birth journey may take.”

Hi, I’m Karen McClay Director and owner of Calmbirth. It’s been a while since I last introduced myself.  I also want to use today, International Day of the Midwife to pay homage to all the wonderful work midwives do around the world and to thank all the midwives I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with.

I’ve been a midwife for over 14 years, and I can honestly say that what I love best about being a midwife is being with women and holding space for them as they transition into motherhood. It is the relationship and trust that is built that enables me to support, guide, and nurture them through their journey knowing they will feel safe. And to be able to bear witness to one of the most amazing miracles of life… birth in my day-to-day work is an honour I will forever cherish.

Hi, I’m Karen McClay Director and owner of Calmbirth. It’s been a while since I last introduced myself.  I also want to use today, International Day of the Midwife to pay homage to all the wonderful work midwives do around the world and to thank all the midwives I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with.

I’ve been a midwife for over 14 years, and I can honestly say that what I love best about being a midwife is being with women and holding space for them as they transition into motherhood. It is the relationship and trust that is built that enables me to support, guide, and nurture them through their journey knowing they will feel safe. And to be able to bear witness to one of the most amazing miracles of life… birth in my day-to-day work is an honour I will forever cherish.

First and foremost, I am a mumma to two beautiful children and one fur baby, located in the Hills District, Sydney. And love all things nature, art, coffee, and birth.

First and foremost, I am a mumma to two beautiful children and one fur baby, located in the Hills District, Sydney. And love all things nature, art, coffee, and birth.

Sarah Koffmann is a GP Obstetrician working in the beautiful regional town of Bathurst NSW as well as a Calmbirth Educator.
My passion is working with women to optimise their health especially in areas of contraception, pregnancy care, postnatal health, breastfeeding, peri/menopause and mental health.

Sarah Koffmann is a GP Obstetrician working in the beautiful regional town of Bathurst NSW as well as a Calmbirth Educator.
My passion is working with women to optimise their health especially in areas of contraception, pregnancy care, postnatal health, breastfeeding, peri/menopause and mental health.

In my career as a midwife I have witnessed the incredible strength of many women and families bringing new life into this world. There truly is no greater privilege than being present at such a vulnerable and significant moment of a woman’s life. I have seen women enter the labour and birth environment with hesitation, anxiety and fear and have also seen women leap into their labour with courage, calmness and trust. The contrasting experiences that all women undergo is what makes my job so interesting and rewarding.  But I felt like I could do more…

In my career as a midwife I have witnessed the incredible strength of many women and families bringing new life into this world. There truly is no greater privilege than being present at such a vulnerable and significant moment of a woman’s life. I have seen women enter the labour and birth environment with hesitation, anxiety and fear and have also seen women leap into their labour with courage, calmness and trust. The contrasting experiences that all women undergo is what makes my job so interesting and rewarding.  But I felt like I could do more…

Kathryn March is a Private Midwife caring for women across the Central West of NSW, based in Dubbo.

“A lifetime ago I was a practising Exercise Physiologist with a fascination of the human body. I thought that this was the career for me until the birth of my first child.

“Birth introduced me to the empowering world of women supporting women known as midwifery, which I immediately fell in love with. My career trajectory was changed overnight!”

Kathryn March is a Private Midwife caring for women across the Central West of NSW, based in Dubbo.

“A lifetime ago I was a practising Exercise Physiologist with a fascination of the human body. I thought that this was the career for me until the birth of my first child.

“Birth introduced me to the empowering world of women supporting women known as midwifery, which I immediately fell in love with. My career trajectory was changed overnight!”

Shirley is a dedicated paediatric nurse with 2 years of experience and an accomplished midwife with 8 years in the field. As a mother of two, Shirley is deeply committed to ensuring women feel confident and empowered during their birth experiences.

“I believe in the innate wisdom of women’s bodies during labur, and I strive to create a safe, calm, and undisturbed environment, allowing them to focus on the birthing process.

“My passion extends to postnatal care, where I offer support in the comfort of the women’s homes. Services include: breastfeeding support, postnatal massage, assistance with daily tasks, newborn care, and postnatal depression observation during the early days.

“I also specialise in providing culturally appropriate confinement-style care for Asian women.”

Shirley is a dedicated paediatric nurse with 2 years of experience and an accomplished midwife with 8 years in the field. As a mother of two, Shirley is deeply committed to ensuring women feel confident and empowered during their birth experiences.

“I believe in the innate wisdom of women’s bodies during labur, and I strive to create a safe, calm, and undisturbed environment, allowing them to focus on the birthing process.

“My passion extends to postnatal care, where I offer support in the comfort of the women’s homes. Services include: breastfeeding support, postnatal massage, assistance with daily tasks, newborn care, and postnatal depression observation during the early days.

“I also specialise in providing culturally appropriate confinement-style care for Asian women.”

As we have so many new followers I thought I’d re introduce myself especially since we are having a milestone birthday this year and turning 20!

I’m Karen McClay and as the Director of Calmbirth and a midwife myself, I am honoured to continue my father’s vision of exchanging the feeling of fear into trust.  We strive to make our Calmbirth program accessible to as many birthing couples and caregivers as possible. One of the ways we achieve this is by offering Calmbirth as part of the antenatal offerings in maternity hospitals, providing couples with a choice in accessing quality & evidence based childbirth education.

As we have so many new followers I thought I’d re introduce myself especially since we are having a milestone birthday this year and turning 20!

I’m Karen McClay and as the Director of Calmbirth and a midwife myself, I am honoured to continue my father’s vision of exchanging the feeling of fear into trust.  We strive to make our Calmbirth program accessible to as many birthing couples and caregivers as possible. One of the ways we achieve this is by offering Calmbirth as part of the antenatal offerings in maternity hospitals, providing couples with a choice in accessing quality & evidence based childbirth education.

Emily is a Registered Midwife, Registered Nurse and Calmbirth Educator in southern Tasmania. She is also a mother of four young children.

Emily says, “Calmbirth first entered my world 13 years ago when I attended a course in preparation for the birth of my first child. Despite already being a midwife, I walked away from that weekend with more knowledge and understanding about the natural physiological process of birth and what my body was capable of than I anticipated. I had a renewed sense of trust in myself and that I had the tools to work with whatever was ahead of us.  My husband also left the course feeling far less fearful about birth and more confident in his ability to support me. We went on to use those tools for each of our subsequent babies.

Emily is a Registered Midwife, Registered Nurse and Calmbirth Educator in southern Tasmania. She is also a mother of four young children.

Emily says, “Calmbirth first entered my world 13 years ago when I attended a course in preparation for the birth of my first child. Despite already being a midwife, I walked away from that weekend with more knowledge and understanding about the natural physiological process of birth and what my body was capable of than I anticipated. I had a renewed sense of trust in myself and that I had the tools to work with whatever was ahead of us.  My husband also left the course feeling far less fearful about birth and more confident in his ability to support me. We went on to use those tools for each of our subsequent babies.

Laura is a registered midwife and nurse and is a mother to 3 beautiful children. She has worked in Sydney and Canberra in all varieties of the midwifery scope.

She says, “In my early days as a midwife in 2011, it was obvious to me those who had embraced the Calmbirth course. The confidence, the teamwork, the experiences I observed blew me away.

“Pregnancy, birth and parenting are life changing experiences for a woman and her partner. I believe that Calmbirth provides a solid foundation for a positive experience and life skills going forward. The physical and emotional journey are respected and techniques to work with this journey are embraced.

Laura is a registered midwife and nurse and is a mother to 3 beautiful children. She has worked in Sydney and Canberra in all varieties of the midwifery scope.

She says, “In my early days as a midwife in 2011, it was obvious to me those who had embraced the Calmbirth course. The confidence, the teamwork, the experiences I observed blew me away.

“Pregnancy, birth and parenting are life changing experiences for a woman and her partner. I believe that Calmbirth provides a solid foundation for a positive experience and life skills going forward. The physical and emotional journey are respected and techniques to work with this journey are embraced.

Ciao! I’m Shanae, a passionate advocate for empowering women and their families on their journey through matrescence. With a rich background in nursing, midwifery, and lactation consulting, I’ve dedicated my career to supporting families through the transformative experience of childbirth.

Ciao! I’m Shanae, a passionate advocate for empowering women and their families on their journey through matrescence. With a rich background in nursing, midwifery, and lactation consulting, I’ve dedicated my career to supporting families through the transformative experience of childbirth.

I’m Michelle and I’ve had the privilege of working with birthing women and their families for over twenty five years.  My calling as a Calmbirth Educator began with a deep-seated passion for empowering women and their partners to embrace the transformative journey of childbirth with calmness and confidence.

I’m Michelle and I’ve had the privilege of working with birthing women and their families for over twenty five years.  My calling as a Calmbirth Educator began with a deep-seated passion for empowering women and their partners to embrace the transformative journey of childbirth with calmness and confidence.

Hi, I’m Hannah. I am a Registered Midwife and mother to two beautiful young children, living in Orange NSW. Since becoming a Midwife in 2016, I have found it a real privilege sharing in women’s transitions to motherhood and supporting families on their journey.

Hi, I’m Hannah. I am a Registered Midwife and mother to two beautiful young children, living in Orange NSW. Since becoming a Midwife in 2016, I have found it a real privilege sharing in women’s transitions to motherhood and supporting families on their journey.

Congratulations and welcome to your incredible journey towards parenthood. I’m Elle, a passionate registered nurse and midwife with over a decade of experience. I’ve had the privilege of guiding countless families through the beautiful process of pregnancy, childbirth, and early parenthood.

“It has become obvious to me over this time that the parents who are active participants in their journey come out of it in a truly positive way, regardless of how it unfolds. I am a firm believer in education being the foundation of self-determination; you are the expert of your body and your baby. After all, you are not only birthing your baby but birthing yourselves as parents.”

Congratulations and welcome to your incredible journey towards parenthood. I’m Elle, a passionate registered nurse and midwife with over a decade of experience. I’ve had the privilege of guiding countless families through the beautiful process of pregnancy, childbirth, and early parenthood.

“It has become obvious to me over this time that the parents who are active participants in their journey come out of it in a truly positive way, regardless of how it unfolds. I am a firm believer in education being the foundation of self-determination; you are the expert of your body and your baby. After all, you are not only birthing your baby but birthing yourselves as parents.”

I am an experienced Midwife and Registered Nurse who has worked over a number of states and hospitals in Australia. I continue to have the privilege of caring for women and their families at Northern Beaches Hospital in pregnancy,  labour, on the postnatal ward and visiting them at home at NBH.

I am excited to be teaching Calmbirth at NBH and to give families tools to navigate pregnancy, labour and the postnatal period with a sense of ease knowing they have all they need to birth confidently and calmly as they advocate for the birth they desire.

Calmbirth empowers families to recognise that remaining calm and relaxed in labour, they can encourage their bodies to birth as they were designed to. Giving them a birthing experience that is joyous and empowering.

I am an experienced Midwife and Registered Nurse who has worked over a number of states and hospitals in Australia. I continue to have the privilege of caring for women and their families at Northern Beaches Hospital in pregnancy,  labour, on the postnatal ward and visiting them at home at NBH.

I am excited to be teaching Calmbirth at NBH and to give families tools to navigate pregnancy, labour and the postnatal period with a sense of ease knowing they have all they need to birth confidently and calmly as they advocate for the birth they desire.

Calmbirth empowers families to recognise that remaining calm and relaxed in labour, they can encourage their bodies to birth as they were designed to. Giving them a birthing experience that is joyous and empowering.

Since 2018, I’ve embarked on a deeply fulfilling journey as a midwife at the largest tertiary hospital in the southern hemisphere. My days are spent primarily in the vibrant, dynamic atmosphere of the birth suite, where I blend clinical expertise with compassionate care to support families through the miracle of childbirth.

In addition to my hospital duties, I find immense joy in teaching parent education classes, where my goal is to create a nurturing and empowering space for expecting individuals and couples. Through evidence-based antenatal, labour, birth, and postnatal education, I strive to equip families with the knowledge and confidence to navigate this transformative journey.

My passions lie in empowering women through education. Women deserve to be encouraged to speak their mind and make decisions that are important to them.

Outside of my role as a midwife, I cherish the simple pleasures of life. You’ll often find me enjoying leisurely walks that inevitably lead to brunch spots with friends, savouring both the food and the laughter shared. And when I seek solace and comfort, nothing beats the warm cuddles from my two beautiful sausage dogs, who never fail to bring light and joy into my world.

Since 2018, I’ve embarked on a deeply fulfilling journey as a midwife at the largest tertiary hospital in the southern hemisphere. My days are spent primarily in the vibrant, dynamic atmosphere of the birth suite, where I blend clinical expertise with compassionate care to support families through the miracle of childbirth.

In addition to my hospital duties, I find immense joy in teaching parent education classes, where my goal is to create a nurturing and empowering space for expecting individuals and couples. Through evidence-based antenatal, labour, birth, and postnatal education, I strive to equip families with the knowledge and confidence to navigate this transformative journey.

My passions lie in empowering women through education. Women deserve to be encouraged to speak their mind and make decisions that are important to them.

Outside of my role as a midwife, I cherish the simple pleasures of life. You’ll often find me enjoying leisurely walks that inevitably lead to brunch spots with friends, savouring both the food and the laughter shared. And when I seek solace and comfort, nothing beats the warm cuddles from my two beautiful sausage dogs, who never fail to bring light and joy into my world.

Congratulations on becoming pregnant and starting an incredible journey towards parenthood or growing your family. My name is Yanna and I am excited to be a part of your journey. I’m a Registered Nurse and Midwife of over 10 years and I have a passion for supporting women and their families to improved health and emotional wellbeing.
My passion lies in facilitating an empowering journey through the sharing of knowledge, exploration of beliefs/fears, and transforming them to offer a connection to the innate power within. Childbirth is a deeply meaningful and significant event affecting the life-long journey of parenting.
Through this incredible course, I hope to provide tools that you can utilize along your journey. Education is pivotal in our world today, so come and spend a weekend in a safe, supportive and inclusive space, learning and asking questions all about childbirth. I run group classes on weekends in Bundaberg or I’m happy to provide tailored times if weekends aren’t suited in the comfort of your own home. Please feel free to contact me for more information, I’d love to help you realize your birthing visions.

Congratulations on becoming pregnant and starting an incredible journey towards parenthood or growing your family. My name is Yanna and I am excited to be a part of your journey. I’m a Registered Nurse and Midwife of over 10 years and I have a passion for supporting women and their families to improved health and emotional wellbeing.
My passion lies in facilitating an empowering journey through the sharing of knowledge, exploration of beliefs/fears, and transforming them to offer a connection to the innate power within. Childbirth is a deeply meaningful and significant event affecting the life-long journey of parenting.
Through this incredible course, I hope to provide tools that you can utilize along your journey. Education is pivotal in our world today, so come and spend a weekend in a safe, supportive and inclusive space, learning and asking questions all about childbirth. I run group classes on weekends in Bundaberg or I’m happy to provide tailored times if weekends aren’t suited in the comfort of your own home. Please feel free to contact me for more information, I’d love to help you realize your birthing visions.

Hi, I’m Tara. I am a registered midwife for the last 5 years and a proud mumma of a beautiful girl. I am passionate about empowered and informed childbirth and my goal for you is to ensure that you feel confident and have the tools you need to make informed decisions about your birth journey. I offer to bring extensive experience and a deep understanding of childbirth and am currently undertaking studies in lactation consultancy and pharmacology to ensure that you receive the most current and comprehensive care. I offer a mother’s perspective as well as a professional one as I focus on both the physical and emotional aspects of childbirth, empowering you with practical skills and confidence to make informed and educated decisions when it comes to maternity care.

So, join me and others like you to join a community of expecting parents and share your experiences in a nurturing, supportive setting.

Hi, I’m Tara. I am a registered midwife for the last 5 years and a proud mumma of a beautiful girl. I am passionate about empowered and informed childbirth and my goal for you is to ensure that you feel confident and have the tools you need to make informed decisions about your birth journey. I offer to bring extensive experience and a deep understanding of childbirth and am currently undertaking studies in lactation consultancy and pharmacology to ensure that you receive the most current and comprehensive care. I offer a mother’s perspective as well as a professional one as I focus on both the physical and emotional aspects of childbirth, empowering you with practical skills and confidence to make informed and educated decisions when it comes to maternity care.

So, join me and others like you to join a community of expecting parents and share your experiences in a nurturing, supportive setting.