My choice to start a pregnancy circle came out of my own desire to find one in my city but there were no options! I was having a difficult first trimester with nausea and fatigue, and I felt lonely this time around. So I created the circle to connect with others on a similar journey. I also wanted to create a special space, where women could really tune into the rite of passage into motherhood that they are on. Life can get busy and our society does not often acknowledge or celebrate the significance of becoming a mother, so I wanted to create a place where women could feel celebrated. I also felt it was important for women to be able to share their dreams or fears about birth in a non-judgemental space, and for first time mothers to learn from mothers who had given birth before.
The circle takes place at my home every four weeks. The mothers who joined the circle vary in their experience and beliefs about birth. Some are planning a hospital birth, others are looking into a primary unit or home birth, and the rest are planning their second home birth.
I have asked the ones who have already given birth to share their stories so that others may gain some wisdom from them. One mother shared her pain-free, five hour home birth, which was very inspiring.
Some circles, I have planned activities such as meditation, birth visioning questions, and listening to birth stories. Other circles have just flowed with conversation about all things birth, breastfeeding, and how we raise our children.
We always finish with a shared lunch and I have encouraged mothers to bring something healthy. This is always a lovely way to finish the circles.
I will continue the circles until I give birth in March 2025 and may continue hosting for pregnant mothers in the future, as it is also a good way to meet mothers who are seeking birth education or doula offerings.
(Picture above of our altar that we sit around).
