I'm an experienced birth and postnatal doula working in Northern Ireland as MotherDoula NI, and also co-founder of Doulas of Northern Ireland collective. It's such a pleasure to grow and nourish the doula community by facilitating Doula UK approved training courses here in NI, so the mummies in Northern Ireland have more choice! As a birth doula I have supported well over 100 births to date and still remain in utter awe of our fabulous birthing bodies! It is such an honour to be invited into each intimate life-changing event and each birth spurs me on to continue to offer support to more families. Some women chose to birth their babies in the comfort and security of their own home, surrounded by family and pets. Others prefer the hospital setting - it's personal choice. My experience includes a wide variety of births both at home and in hospitals all over the country, including natural water births, hypnobirths, the natural birth of triplets, IVF, twins with TAPS, vaginal birth after caesarean (VBAC), home birth after caesarean (HBAC), epidural, induction, BBA - baby born before arrival, freebirth, assisted and caesarean births.
"Anne made me feel really empowered, respected and heard during what was a very overwhelming time due to a surprise early labour!" Rebekah
As your doula I listen to you, to what is really important for you and your baby, and how I can support what you want. We chat about the realities and expectations. It's such an exciting time for you and your family, but too often there can be worries and anxiety around the birth and life with a newborn. I support you emotionally by always being there for you to talk over any concerns and your preferences. I support you in person as you make preparations for your birth and also am present during your labour and birth. I have a wide range of experience to share with you if you wish. I am and always have been a strong believer in everyone being treated with respect and fairness. Knowledge is a great empowerment but not everyone knows everything! I am passionate about the importance of supporting women and their partners to have the most satisfying birth experience for their own particular circumstances. It is so important for new parents to have the confidence and knowledge to make informed decisions when bringing their baby into this world, whilst enjoying the excitement and joy of it all!
"I felt like a powerful goddess birthing my son. It was so magical and incredible that I wish I could get to relive it again." Cathy
Thank you for reaching out to discover how the doulas in Northern Ireland can support you as you prepare for the birth of your precious baby!
- Birth & Postnatal doula since June 2015.
- Certified HypnoBirthing Childbirth Educator since 2017.
- Rainbow Doula since December 2017.
- Doula UK mentor and area representative.
- Doula Access Fund doula.
- I'm the area representative for Doula UK and am keen on developing a sound professional network with other health professionals so we can compliment and complement the perinatal care and support to new mums and families.
- I also volunteer with AIMS campaigning towards better births for all.
- Mum to 3 grown-ups and granny to a beautiful girl!
