Bangalore Birth Network

Image Source A woman is at her most vulnerable yet incredibly powerful space during the moments that her baby is born. A doula by her side at this time helps her in this passage without being judgemental and offering her unconditional support - helping her focus on the process, filtering out distractions and encouraging her throughout. She is a sister, a friend, a guide, an aunt, a mother figure who has gone down that path herself and/or has supported other women at this important juncture. She supports the mom and her partner with compassion and helps them make informed decisions while respecting their choices. A doula is someone who keeps in mind the mother and child’s best interest, and is on the same page as the couple, aware of their wishes and without any personal agenda.    By getting to know the parents-to-be in depth during prenatal meetings, she builds trust and connection. She educates them about the various birthing options and ways to facili...

Image Source We were expecting our first child in 2013. My pregnancy was a time of beauty and wonder – I was working and was active till the last day. I felt certain that my baby would be born completely naturally. The miracle of a life growing inside me was so thrilling that the nausea was a trivial discomfort. The monthly and weekly (9 th month) visits were happy occasions to hear the baby’s heartbeat and all was well. I had a good rapport with my doctor, shared with her my desire for a natural birth and chose to have my baby at the best maternity hospital in Kolkata. However, when we met the doctor about three days before my EDD, I was told that I will not be allowed to wait beyond 40 weeks and would have to be medically induced for the labour to start. I had no other option but to get myself admitted to the hospital.  Soon, I was given enema, shaved and strapped to a fetal monitor, while my family, including my husband, had to wait outside the labour room. A few hou...