In this week's episode I'm joined by Layla, a mum of three and a doula based in Devon, who shares her experience of planning and having an NHS-supported home birth with her first baby.

Layla reflects on her pregnancy journey and explains why home birth felt like the right choice for her. Feeling safest and most at ease in her own environment, alongside having continuity of care through NHS midwifery services, helped her feel confident in trusting her body and approaching labour calmly. Learning more about physiological birth, and being supported by both her midwife and a doula, reinforced her belief that home was the place where she would feel most listened to and supported.

While Layla describes her home birth as a positive and empowering experience, she also speaks openly about the challenges she faced in the postpartum period. She reflects on the emotional and physical adjustments of early motherhood, the unexpected difficulties she encountered after birth, and how this time deepened her understanding of the importance of ongoing support beyond labour itself.

Layla shares how her birth and postpartum experiences went on to influence her later pregnancies and ultimately her decision to become a doula herself. This episode explores themes of NHS home birth, continuity of care, self-trust, and postpartum vulnerability, highlighting the lasting impact birth experiences can have long after birth.

Layla is a holistic heart-led Doula, based in Devon; weaving together practical & soulful support for women navigating the transformational path of pregnancy, birth & early motherhood. I walk alongside you on this journey; cheering you on, reminding you of your strength & inner wisdom 🤍

Find out more about Layla and work together with her here:

www.fullbloomdoula.co.uk

https://www.instagram.com/full_bloom_doula?igsh=eHVkMnR6cHF5ZW1i&utm_source=qr

These stories are personal experiences and are shared for informational purposes only. They should not be taken as medical advice. Always seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional.

British Birthing Stories shares real, unfiltered stories of childbirth in the UK, from pregnancy and labour to postpartum recovery.

These stories reflect personal experiences and should not be taken as or replace medical advice. Always seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional.

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