Cathrine: the birth of Maud
Cathrine Mathiesen aka yogamamma is one of the best yoga teachers around, specializing in pregnancy and postpartum yoga.
I’ve had the pleasure of working with her at some of her yoga retreats, and was thrilled when she reached out to me for support in her fourth pregnancy.
She treated herself with some sessions of pregnancy massage and birth prep - and then, some weeks before her estimated due date, decided to include me in her birthing team.
Even though Cathrine was already so experienced and confident with birth, and knew she would have great support in her husband and the midwives at the ABC-clinic at Ullevål hospital, she allowed her self that extra care.
What she writes about choosing doula support speaks volumes:
Entering the birthing room at ABC, Ullevål to greet Cathrine, still with my winter coat on. Photo credit: Eva Rose
"For a long time, I didn’t think I needed a doula.”
“My previous births had been uncomplicated and, though intense, left me feeling empowered rather than traumatised.
Through my work I have come across many wonderful doulas who I warmly recommend to my pregnant students.
But I didn’t need any ‘help’ giving birth, did I?
I think Maud arrived to teach me what I had yet to learn.
Thankfully I woke up, followed my own advice and asked Ragnhild to be my doula.
“The birth of Maud was quick but very calm and quiet.
With few words Ragnhild knew exactly what I needed and when.
She arrived with homemade calendula oil and raspberry leaf tea.
Her knowing, loving hands squeezed my hips and pressed against my lower back during contractions, massaged shoulders and hands to release tension, stroked my skin to promote production of oxytocin.
Her beautiful way of holding space allowed me to relax completely.
The birth support I provide is tailored to every birthing person’s situation, wishes and needs. Photo credit: Eva Rose.
“One of the biggest misconceptions about doulas is that they take over the role or get in the way of the birthing partner or the midwife.
In my experience it’s the exact opposite.
“Ragnhild’s presence enabled my husband to be the best possible birthing partner.”
“Her easy, respectful and service-minded way with the midwives created a space of trust and community.
I felt truly loved, supported and accepted by my birthing team.
My husband later said he felt he was part of a tribal gathering of wise women.
And that’s what we all need.
On the path to motherhood, we need the presence and support of wise women, permission to be both vulnerable and powerful, and men who do not feel threatened by this."
Biased as I am, I couldn’t agree more…
Applying gentle massage and counter pressure as Cathrine moves through contractions. Photo credit: Eva Rose
Doulas are for every pregnant person and every birth
Regardless of who you are and what ‘type’ of birth you want, plan for and actually end up with:
the support that a a doula can contribute with before, during and after your birth is truly unique!
Want to know more on how we can work together?
Please don’t hesitate to contact me - or click the buttons below for more information.