From one of our Doulas:

"We support many teenage mothers giving birth at Mowbray Maternity.

Sometimes their palpable fear and youth is overwhelming... But being able to support them is a massive privilege, because you really get to witness the absolute magic of oxytocin's work when that baby arrives!

This is special to witness in all births, but for very young moms there is something powerful about that love overriding any fear, nervousness and unfortunately, shame.

One young mother I supported was very much in denial, fearful and had tried to take her life while 5 months pregnant.

She had told me how difficult her pregnancy was, and how unprepared she was for this baby. During those few hours with her in the labour ward, we chatted, laughed and candidly spoke about her fears. She delivered her baby boy courageously, completely overcome by love and oxytocin! Sometimes I have to pinch myself to remind myself that what we witness is real, and how lucky we are to be part of these mother's stories, in the face of fear and adversity.