What does a birth reflection involve?

A birth reflection is a conversation between a maternity professional, in this case, a midwife, and a parent or parents who have recently experienced pregnancy and birth. We will discuss events, your emotions and recovery, and I can answer any questions you have about your experience. As a balanced professional with training in trauma-informed care, I can provide insight and knowledge, a listening ear, and I hope to create an environment in which you feel comfortable sharing something that is so personal to you. It’s important to note that whilst I am working within my professional scope of practice, I am not a therapist or counsellor. It is my responsibility to suggest further professional input if you need support beyond what I can offer.

Do I need to have anything prepared?

There is no obligation (no homework!), but thinking about the story of your pregnancy and birth may help provide some structure to our session, helping you to make the most of our time together. Preparing questions or talking points beforehand can be a good way to ensure we don’t miss the opportunity to discuss something that’s important to you.

Should my partner attend?

If you want them to, absolutely. You can both benefit from and add to our discussion. Your partner may have insights about your shared experience or questions of their own. That being said, it is your decision if you choose to have an individual session or come together.

I consider my birthing story quite ‘straightforward,’ is this still for me?

A birth reflection is for anyone who feels they would benefit from, or feel empowered by, a conversation about their experience of the perinatal period. It’s not just about discussing something difficult or traumatic, it’s the opportunity to process a significant life event with an experienced professional who can bring clarity and share insight into your experiences. A positive birth experience deserves to be discussed and understood just as much as one which was considered more difficult. Evidence suggests that women who have taken part in birth reflections think it should be something available for everyone, no matter whether they view their experience as broadly positive or negative. You can have a look at the Birth Reflection section of the website for some of the reasons you might choose to have a reflective session.

What time period does a reflective session cover?

Although the phrase “birth reflection“ is often used to talk about midwife-led debriefs, a more accurate phrase might be a Perinatal Reflection - encompassing pregnancy, birth and the 6 week postnatal period. Our session may end up focusing on one particular episode or experience, or we may speak more broadly about the whole perinatal period. It is a truly individualised discussion so we will discuss whatever is most relevant to you.