Clinic day #30: I'm here for you

It occurred to me yesterday that in our society we don't very often make statements aloud of support to one another.

Yesterday I was doing two prenatals in a row for first time mothers that are 28-30 weeks along. Around this time I usually discuss the birth process with them, letting them know what to expect, going through right from when labour starts to the home visits afterwards. In both visits I made a statement akin to: 'Please feel free to speak up and let me know if you need anything or if I am doing something that doesn't feel good in your labour, for instance "rub my back harder/lower" or "somebody talk me through contractions" or "you're too close" etc. Feel free to be open and honest; I'm not going to take offense. I am here to support you in your journey, and whatever I can do for you, please let me know.'

Both women started crying after I made this statement. Of course one could chalk it up to pregnancy hormones, but perhaps these women's souls needed a bit of tending.... what a privilege for me to be able to perhaps calm their nerves and meet that need. I love my job!