What do we mean when we say ‘with woman’?

Through our work we recognise how much past experiences or current struggles have an impact on other areas of a woman’s life. Not long ago, we began exploring ways in which we could support women in other times in their life, not just during pregnancy and birth. As full-spectrum doulas we see the importance of supporting each woman holistically, because she is a whole and complex person. We began offering a longer-term version of holding space, which we named ‘with woman’. This support plan could be used for recovering from a traumatic experience, going through big life changes or when you simply an urge to connect with yourself.

This support can look different for every woman, but here is a beautifully written account of one amazing woman’s journey with us. Thank you Charlene for sharing your experience and allowing us to share it with others (and your amazing photos too!).

“Where do I even start with sharing some kind words about the GMD With Woman sessions? I honestly found such a simple idea of theirs life changing.

Back in 2015 I became a mother but it took 2 years or so to realise my feelings and emotions weren’t just struggles with the new motherhood balance but linked to birth trauma from my hospital experience. Trauma so ingrained I was in an internal battle over whether I could consider having more children because I couldn’t face the idea of years of upset after again.

After a couple of sessions they helped open my eyes to how the trauma was inevitable in a system not made to support women but more importantly, that I had other options. It wasn’t my fault and I didn’t have to go through that again. Options were shared that I was never aware of during my first pregnancy. That light bulb moment helped me feel confident and supported in the journey that followed.

I’m now cuddling my 4 month old typing this review after an incredibly empowering and healing birth in November. The Mum who said no to more kids because I couldn’t face the idea of a traumatic hospital birth and years of therapy again…it shocked a lot of people close to us as I’d been so vocal about not wanting more children! 

Thanks to the doulas I started my journey feeling supported and empowered to choose a wild pregnancy and freebirth at home with my husband and 6 year old daughter. Having then there to help explore my feelings and support my journey was the start of a transformation I’m proud of. Thank you GMD ?? “

– Charlene

To find out more about our ‘with woman’ support plan, click here, or send us an email to hello@greatermanchesterdoulas.com if you have questions!

To find out more about Charlene’s fantastic photography, you can find her here:

Charlene’s Website

Charlene’s Instagram

Charlene’s Facebook Page

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