I am strong because at 36 weeks, I gave birth to a baby who I knew would not be with me very long. I am strong because at my 20 week ultrasound, there were a few “little things” that looked off and a possibility for Trisomy 21. Even though I am 31 years old and had less than a 1%…
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My Belly, My Baby {Self Love}
This is a picture of my 15 month old and my belly. It has been well over a year, and I have slowly and peacefully accepted that my belly is going to be floppy and riddled with stretch marks for a very long time. She has helped me accept my body. When she nurses, she often caresses my soft, pillowy…
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Feeding the Children: Memories of a Single-Mom Childhood
Several months ago, I wrote ‘Eating is a Family Affair‘, a post detailing the many ways my husband supports me in breastfeeding. I loved reading the comments readers left. There were lots of mamas tagging their partners and thanking them for their support (love!). Some comments were from moms whose partners did not support them in their breastfeeding (tears!). And…
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To My Little Sister
To my little sister, You’re 38 weeks pregnant now, and as you approach your ‘due date’, there are some things I want you to know. This time is sacred. I bet you hate hearing that, but it is. Right now your baby is listening to your heartbeat, sleeping and moving and safe within you. Women look at you, and envy…
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Together as a Family, Part V
This is the final installment of a five-part series about loss and healing. Written by Shannon from Brisbane, AU, this powerful story outlines her experience of three miscarriages followed by the healthy pregnancy and birth of her son, Jasper. Yesterday, we shared her account of early labour; today, you get to read the happy birth story in its entirety! “We…
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Together as a Family, Part IV
This is the fourth post in a five-part series on loss and healing, a story shared by Shannon from Brisbane, AU. Yesterday, she shared her early pregnancy fears, and her decision to pursue midwifery care at the local hospital. Today, she writes about her experience of early labour. Check back tomorrow for the complete story and pictures of the birth of…
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Together as a Family, Part III
This is the third in a five-part series about loss and healing, shared by Shannon from Brisbane, AU. Yesterday, she shared about the grief and despair she felt during and after her third miscarriage. Today, she writes about the fears that arose during her next pregnancy, and her decision to pursue midwifery care. Check back tomorrow to hear the first…
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Why Should I Write My Birth Story?
I am daily compelled by the siren call of birth stories. I read them late at night when I can’t sleep because I’m pregnant. I read them early in the morning when I need inspiration because I’m pregnant and my toddler’s favourite co-sleeping position is ‘H is for Hell’. I recount them to my husband, my friends, my colleagues, and…
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BWF Blog One Year Anniversary: Top 10 Blog Posts
Today, October 25th, marks the one year anniversary of the Birth Without Fear blog! Here are the top 10 blog posts over the last year (by most visited according to Google)… 1. Breech Babies are Another Variation of Normal 2. A License to Rape 3. Beautiful and Inspiring Pregnancy and Birth Pictures 4. Top 10 Things Not to Say to…