I remember a time when I felt all alone. 7 months pregnant with 3 others under 5 years old. I was trapped. At 29 weeks, I went to a standard appointment and explained to my obstetrician that I was having some Braxton Hicks. After that appointment, I was filled with shock and in awe of what she discovered...I now had to be on complete bedrest. I was not allowed to pick up my toddler or stand longer than it took to walk to the bathroom. I was instructed to only do the stairs once a day...in my tri-level house. I could not play on the floor or cook my family dinner. My priority was to keep my little baby in the womb as long as possible. For just about, 6 weeks I was captive in my own home and in my own body hoping for the best for our unborn son.
Can I tell you something?
Having no immediate family living in our state. Having a husband who had to work to provide for our family. I was left hopeless.
I was surprised in the most unbelievable and humbling way. There was a tribe that rallied around our family. These women made meals, watched our children, and cleaned our home as if it was their own. I had never seen anything like this!
Part of the reason why I became a doula, both birth and postpartum, is because of this tribe. I hope that no family is left unsupported. There are trained professionals ready to help you with newborn care, bed-rest situations, breastfeeding difficulties, nanny the siblings, make your meals, and lend a hand during your postpartum time.
Support matters, because it made a difference to me!