Episode 169 of the Young Dad Podcast explores the critical role of trust, advocacy, and mental health support in childbirth. Susie Vehrs shares her experiences as a doula, emphasizing the need for informed consent and the involvement of fathers in the birthing process.
The Role of Trust and Advocacy in Childbirth: Insights from a Doula - Young Dad Podcast Ep. 169
Childbirth is one of the most transformative experiences in life, but it’s also one of the most intense and challenging. In Episode 169 of the Young Dad Podcast, Jey sits down with Susie Vehrs, a seasoned doula, to discuss the vital role of trust, advocacy, and mental health support in the birthing process. Susie’s personal journey, which includes a loss, medical complications, and an emergency C-section, has fueled her passion for ensuring that every mother and father receives the care and support they need during this critical time.
This episode delves into the overwhelming nature of childbirth, the importance of informed consent, and the need for fathers to be actively involved in advocating for their partners. Whether you’re an expectant parent or someone looking to understand the nuances of quality care in childbirth, this conversation offers essential insights.
Building Trust in Childbirth: The Foundation of Quality Care
Quality care in childbirth begins with trust—a trust that is built on authenticity, empathy, logic, and follow-through from healthcare providers. “Quality care requires trust and trust equals authenticity, empathy, logic, and follow through,” Susie explains. Without this foundation, the birthing process can become even more overwhelming, leading to increased anxiety and a sense of powerlessness for both mothers and fathers.
Susie shares her own experiences of navigating a complex childbirth, emphasizing the importance of having healthcare providers who are not just knowledgeable, but who also truly listen and respond to the needs of the parents. Trust isn’t just about medical expertise; it’s about the human connection that reassures parents during one of the most vulnerable times in their lives.
The Crucial Role of Doulas and Advocates
Doulas and advocates play an invaluable role in the birthing process. They offer emotional support, provide information, and help parents feel more confident and informed as they navigate childbirth. “Entering the process with more confidence, more knowledge, and someone on your side is really important,” Susie stresses. Doulas don’t replace medical professionals; rather, they complement the care provided by ensuring that the mother’s voice is heard and respected.
Informed consent is a cornerstone of this advocacy. Susie highlights the importance of mothers having a say in their healthcare decisions. This isn’t just about making choices; it’s about being fully informed about those choices so that mothers can make decisions that are best for them and their babies. Advocacy in childbirth isn’t just about the moment of delivery; it’s about the entire journey, from prenatal care to postpartum recovery.
The Father’s Role in the Birthing Process
Childbirth isn’t just a life-changing event for mothers; it’s also a profound experience for fathers. However, as Susie points out, fathers often enter this process without any training or preparation, which can make the experience overwhelming. “Birth is really hard on relationships. It transforms the relationships, but because there's so much opportunity for women to experience trauma and so much then falls on a dad who has no training in birth,” she explains.
Fathers are thrust into a high-stakes environment where they are expected to support their partners through an incredibly intense experience. The pressure can be immense, and without proper guidance or support, fathers can feel lost or even helpless. Susie and Jey discuss the importance of fathers being involved not just as bystanders, but as active advocates for their partners. This means understanding the birthing process, knowing the preferences and needs of the mother, and being prepared to speak up when necessary.
The Overwhelming Nature of Childbirth and Relationship Dynamics
The physical and emotional intensity of childbirth can strain even the strongest relationships. “It's so overwhelming and so flustering,” Susie admits, reflecting on her own experiences. The transition from a couple to parents is filled with joy, but it also brings challenges that can test the relationship.
One of the key takeaways from this episode is the importance of communication and understanding between partners. Childbirth can bring out emotions and reactions that are unexpected, and it’s crucial for both parents to navigate these feelings together. Susie reminds fathers that their partners are not angry at them during these moments of stress; rather, they are going through a process that is as unpredictable as it is profound. “She's not mad at you,” she assures, emphasizing the need for patience and empathy during this time.
Mental Health Support During Pregnancy and Postpartum
Mental health support is vital during pregnancy and postpartum—not just for mothers, but for fathers as well. The conversation touches on the often-overlooked aspect of paternal mental health. Fathers, just like mothers, can experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges during this time. Yet, they are frequently left out of the conversation.
Susie and Jey discuss the need for better mental health resources and support for both parents. Counseling, therapy, and open discussions about mental health should be normalized in the context of pregnancy and postpartum care. The well-being of both parents is crucial for creating a healthy and supportive environment for the new baby.
Addressing Disparities in Access to Care
Another critical issue that Susie brings to light is the disparity in access to care and resources, particularly for low-income communities. These disparities can exacerbate the challenges faced by parents during pregnancy and postpartum, leading to poorer outcomes and increased stress. There’s a pressing need for more equitable access to quality care and support, ensuring that all parents, regardless of their socioeconomic status, can receive the help they need.
Susie advocates for more preventative care and early intervention, which can make a significant difference in the lives of parents and their children. By addressing these disparities, we can help ensure that every parent has the opportunity to navigate the birthing process with confidence and support.
Cultivating Joy and Presence in Parenting
Amidst all the challenges of childbirth and parenting, Susie emphasizes the importance of being present, listening, and cultivating joy in the parenting journey. It’s easy to get caught up in the stress and challenges, but taking the time to appreciate the small moments and joys can make a big difference. “Being present, listening, and cultivating joy are important aspects of the parenting journey,” Susie reflects.
This mindset is not just beneficial for parents; it’s also essential for the child’s development. By focusing on the positive aspects of parenting and making a conscious effort to be present, parents can create a nurturing and joyful environment for their children.
Final Thoughts
Episode 169 of the Young Dad Podcast with Susie Vehrs is a powerful reminder of the importance of trust, advocacy, and mental health support in childbirth. Whether you’re a mother, father, or someone supporting new parents, this episode offers valuable insights into how to navigate the challenges of childbirth and parenting with confidence, empathy, and resilience.
From the critical role of doulas and informed consent to the need for better mental health support and addressing disparities in care, this conversation covers the essential aspects of ensuring a positive birthing experience. Most importantly, it highlights the need for both parents to be active participants in the process, supporting each other and their child as they embark on this life-changing journey.
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