Content warning: Some or all parts of this reading may be triggering.
How were you connected with POEM Rise?
I called and inquired about services.
Tell us about your pregnancy and postpartum journey. How did your experiences impact your mental health?
I have 3 children total. My experience with my first pregnancy was pretty positive, and I was supported overall by my children’s father and his family. It went the same with my second child, as they have the same father. My first experience birthing my baby at a hospital was intimidating, as I was only 19 years old, but I pushed through those initial feelings and labored at the hospital. I remember feeling cold and scared during the laboring and birthing process. I remember feeling unsupported and unheard by hospital staff. The staff were rude and dismissive. My children’s father felt the same way. Maybe it was because we were young. Maybe it was because we weren’t married, or maybe it was because we are Black. We will never know the real reason why, but we’ve always felt that it was not okay. When I had my second child the following year, my hospital experience was pretty much the same. On the other hand, the doctors who delivered my babies were amazing! I had them both at Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus, OH. I had never switched hospitals or my prenatal care facility because it was easy to sweep things under the rug.
When I found out I was pregnant with my third child, I was determined to make that experience different from the others. My first rule of business was to find a doula. I found her through the organization, Restoring Our Own Through Transformation (ROOTT). Having a doula provided me with new information, support, guidance and much needed help. Initially, I did not know how much I would really need it! I created a birthing plan with my doula’s support, and I brought it to the hospital. I did not do everything on my plan due to my own choices and how my body wanted to labor, but had I chosen to execute my plan, I was fully accommodated and supported by hospital staff. The hospital staff was polite, respectful, and timely. They addressed all of my concerns, and I felt heard. Even my guests were accommodated. My doctor who delivered my baby calmly talked me through everything she was doing, encouraged me, and reassured me that I was doing great! She even took the time out to thoroughly explain the nature of my placenta to me and my family.
Were there any forms of support you found beneficial to you in your journey?
I can confidently say the third time around was the best yet, and I believe it’s due to the support and education I received from my doula, Amber. I spoke up for myself and made a birthing plan, so maybe I was taken more seriously. I gave birth at OSU Main Hospital in Columbus, OH.
Are there any words of wisdom or encouragement that you’d like to offer other birthing persons?
To any person that is getting ready to give birth, my advice to you would be to appreciate the support that you are receiving and DO NOT look for support where it is not given. Love on yourself, and stand firm on what you want out of this journey. After-all, it’s YOURS!
