Creating a Village for New Mums
By Rebecca Lovett
Society tells us that we must “bounce back” physically after having a baby, that we should resume our normal sex and exercise lives 6 weeks post partum, and that we should be happy that we get to be mothers – all the time. I’m here to dispel all those myths…
There are so many taboo topics around women’s health post partum it is easy to understand why so many of us feel overwhelmed. Not all birthing experiences are fabulous, some are downright traumatic, and the affect on mums can really dark.
For those uncomfortable talking about women’s post birth issues, here’s a warning. We’re talking the taboos here: vaginal health, perineal scaring, PTSD and PND and why it is so important to talk about them. I’ll also tell you about the new 6 week group that Mums of the Hills is providing to help break the silence and help local mums feel supported, connected and understood.
The comments that shaped this course…
Our private online group is known for it’s supportive and caring culture. Our online village has revealed so many experiences that fill me with shock, disbelief and at times anger.
For example, despite being major abdominal surgery, some mums have been sent home after a caesarean birth earlier than people having key hole appendix surgery. With little aftercare on how to care for oneself after this surgery, many struggle.
Image: Gillian Andes
“I sat there in my mothers group trying to look normal while in immense pain from my 3rd degree vaginal scarring. I knew I was supposed to be happy to be a mum, so I said nothing. It wasn’t long before I was diagnosed with PND”.
or another:
“Enjoying sex with my partner is no longer possible”.
and another
“I tried to get straight back into my old exercise routine 8 weeks after giving birth. I popped a rib. Yup.. a rib just…popped out. No one told me that could happen”.
These are just a few of the dozens of conversations I have had with mums over the years about birthing issues that are rarely discussed. With little to no follow up care or support and a societal amnesia on birthing injuries, the physical and psychological impact of birthing can lead to post natal depression and PTSD. Research has indicated a strong connection between PTSD and post natal depression. Having a strong social connection can help to reduce this though. This is why we have created this course. It’s time to start recognising, supporting and providing care beyond what is currently being provided to give our mums and their families the best chance for a happy and healthy start. Thankfully we have a local osteopath that not only shares this passion, but has the experience and knowledge to make a difference.
Rebecca and the team at Yarra Ranges Osteopathy
About the Group
The Mums of the Hills group has been designed by Osteopath Rebecca Lovett (more about Rebecca below). For Rebecca, the inspiration for this group came about from 15 years of listening to the stories and struggles of pregnant, post partum women and mothers of older children. Women often suffer in silence, being too embarrassed or ashamed of their anatomy and how it functions. Women often suffer from pain that they don’t address because they feel a badge of honor to come last in the family. Society tells us that we must “bounce back” physically after having a baby, that we should resume our normal sex and exercise lives 6 weeks post partum and that we should be happy that we get to be mothers – all the time.
Rebecca is here to dispel all those myths, to champion self care and self compassion, to help women understand what is normal and what is not, to guide people to places of excellence in treatment and management. I believe we also need to stop the mummy wars – the judgment of other mothers choices to do what they believe is best for their families and replace it with open hearts and minds, to compliment and learn from each other. In essence, bring back the village.
If you would like to learn more about our group starting on July 15th, please
About Rebecca Lovett
Rebecca is a local mum, MotH, Osteopath and co-owner of Yarra Ranges Osteopathy. She has a strong focus on all aspects of women's health and after years of continuous study and experience, she is passionate about providing support to all women at every age, stage and condition of their lives.
Osteopathy allows for the practitioner to delve deeply into caring for people. Pregnancy is not just about carrying a baby for nine months and patients see Rebecca for continued care pre pregnancy, during pregnancy, post-birth and during their recovery to help them gain the best level of health possible.
“Healthy mums make for stronger families, and a women's health can be supported in so many ways, including with connections to their local community”. At Yarra Ranges Osteopathy, Rebecca aims to make every woman feel a part of their village, helping you to regain your strength, manage any pain you might be experiencing and to see you be in the best health possible for you.
Pelvic floors and vaginal health should never be ignored and Rebecca helps to educate patients with tips on how to have a strong, healthy and happy pelvic floor
Seeking Help
If this topic has caused distress, please seek help. I have provided some contacts below:
Lifeline: 13 11 14
COPE: 1300 740 398
Gidget Foundation Australia: 1300-851-758
PANDA: 1300 726 306
References
Ertan, D., Hingray, C., Burlacu, E. et al. Post-traumatic stress disorder following childbirth. BMC Psychiatry 21, 155 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12888-021-03158-6