June is going to be a difficult month for many...

A little heads up. June is likely to be a tricky month for pregnant folk, mothers who have had traumatic or in some way difficult birth or perinatal experiences, or indeed any mother.

Not only are two MAJOR reports into maternity care failings being published at the end June

~ The Ockenden review of 2,500 cases in Nottingham. England’s biggest ever maternity inquiry

~ The National Maternity and Neonatal Investigation report by Baroness Amos

But there is also going to be a HUGE amount of media coverage around these reports. Both BBC Panorama and Sky have big programs and investigations too. Plus all the newspaper and radio coverage. Not to mention of course social media pushing it into your feeds 24/7.

There’s lots of this to come, so please beware.

Because this could feel overwhelming or triggering for pregnant folk & mothers.

Please remember that you DO NOT need to watch this. This is not burying your head in the sand, it is self preservation and looking after your mental and emotional health.

Some Tips:

~ You CAN take a break from the news and from social media.

~ Delete social media apps from your phone for a while.

~ Don’t watch the news every evening, especially before bed

~ Do something that feels more nourishing to you instead. Perhaps something more supportive that will actually help you as a pregnant person or mother. Read good, supportive books about pregnancy and birth (if you are currently pregnant), listen to podcasts that are helpful to you.

~ Do something that helps you feel calmer and more grounded. My suggestions include breath work, nature, movement, talking, music - whatever is your calming tool and feels good to you.

Sending strength to you all

Being pregnant and being a mother can be tough, this is an extra layer of tough

And if you need resources to help after a difficult or traumatic birth or any other perinatal experience then I can send some your way and signpost you to support services. Just let me know.

Susan x