Embracing the Realities of Pregnancy, Birth, and Parenthood: Insights from a Doula

Hi my friends,

Let’s delve into the raw, unfiltered journey through pregnancy, birth, and the whirlwind adventure of parenthood. Buckle up because we’re about to take a deep dive.

First off, pregnancy. It’s often depicted as this magical, glowing time, but let’s face it—it’s not always sunshine and rainbows. From the relentless nausea to the constant fatigue, it’s a whirlwind of discomfort and uncertainty. Some may breeze through it, but for others, like myself, severe morning sickness can make it feel like an uphill battle every day. But fear not, I’ll save the details for another post.

Now, onto labour and delivery. It’s a marathon, my friends—a true test of strength and resilience. Hours of pain, uncertainty, and sheer determination. Yes, it’s beautiful, but it’s also one of the most challenging experiences you’ll ever face.

And just when you think you’ve conquered the hardest part, parenthood sweeps in like a whirlwind. Suddenly, your entire world revolves around this tiny, demanding bundle of joy. Sleepless nights, endless diaper changes, and the constant worry—it’s a whole new 'level of exhaustion and overwhelm.

But here’s the truth—no one talks about how hard it really is. Society paints this picture of blissful parenthood, but the reality is messy, chaotic, and utterly exhausting. And to make matters worse, sometimes the people around you just don’t get it. They don’t respect your boundaries or your choices. They project their own fears and insecurities onto you, telling you what you should be doing or how you should be feeling.

And let’s not forget about birth trauma. It’s real, it’s painful, and it’s often overlooked.

Some people never get the chance to process their experiences, and it can manifest in unexpected ways. They may project their pain onto you, or they may struggle to support you because they haven’t dealt with their own trauma.

But here’s the bottom line: it shouldn’t be this way. Parenthood is tough enough without the added pressure and judgment from others. So to all the new parents out there, I commend you. I see you navigating these challenges with grace and strength, even when it feels like the world is against you.

And to anyone struggling to find their footing in this wild journey called parenthood, know that you’re not alone. It’s okay to ask for help, to set boundaries, and to prioritize your own well-being. And most importantly, it’s okay to acknowledge that this journey is tough.

So until next time, my friends, remember to be kind to yourselves. You’re doing an amazing job, even on the days when it feels like you’e barely keeping it together.

With love and solidarity,

Coral Adams