Vicki Brings Sacredness to Mums-to be

By Shanelle Schick

It was after watching a local screening of the Birth Time documentary with her daughter that Vicki Jeffrey decided that she wanted to help give women a more positive birthing experience. Already working as an AIN (Assistant in Nursing) in the Maternity Unit at a local hospital, Vicki worked closely with midwives to support Mums post birth, helping them to learn the art of breastfeeding, giving baby their first bath and general support to new mums.

During her 3 or so years in this role, she began to realise that a high percentage of births are traumatic Women tend to hold onto that trauma in their bodies, some even for the entirety of their lifetimes. She realised that as an AIN her time was limited with always being on the clock of having multiple women to care for and endless tasks to undertake during shifts It was then that Vicki decided to delve into further studies to become a doula to be able to give muchneeded support.

A doula is a non-medical person who supports a mother before, during and after the birth of her child. Doulas support women whilst they are in the most vulnerable state Vicki offers a range of pre and post-partum doula services including packages which can be purchased in hourly blocks and used to suit your family. Post-partum meals are also available and provide nourishment to mum while being freezer-friendly for convenience

The post-partum period is often referred to as the 4th trimester. Unfortunately our modern lifestyle often neglects this precious and important time for a new mother, where she is forming a bond with her baby, navigating the art of breastfeeding and healing in her own body as her womb returns to its pre-birth size. A doula is there to support and guide a new mum, especially once her partner has returned to work.

Vicki is most passionate about giving women resources to have confidence to have the birth experience that they deserve. She knows that by supporting new mums she is making changes for generations to come. Studies have shown that mothers who are supported are less likely to develop post-natal depression

January saw the commencement of her pregnancy circles which are to be held fortnightly at the Rosslyn Bay Wellness Centre, underneath Beaches Restaurant. There are two days and times new mums-to-be can choose from – Thursday evenings and Saturday mornings

The circles are an opportunity for mumsto-be to come together and begin to create their village before their baby is born. A donation is requested to help cover the costs of venue hire.

Expanding on her services, Vicki will bring Hypnobirthing and Childbirth Education classes to the coast later this year So keep an eye out on her social media pages for the announcement of these classes.

You can connect with Vicki via her Facebook page – Vicki’s Doula Services or email her vickijeffrey29@gmail com