I loved using these cards through my pregnancy, they helped me focus on and build on what was going well rather than the narrative of fear which is a back drop of care in the medical system. A must have for every pregnancy

Honey

My journey with Tess and Birth From Within has been nothing short of incredible. Tess was highly recommended to me through another midwife who I had been conversing with about the crisis of the failing NHS. I was a young first time mum and had been fed spoonful’s of fear for years regarding my fertility and ability to carry a pregnancy full term. Let alone the struggles presumed in the birthing arena. For the last 7 years I was told I wouldn't be able to carry my own child for various different reasons. When I found out I was pregnant I was absolutely terrified. I contacted Tess and we put a plan together for the months to come. And honestly, I wouldn't have gotten through my pregnancy nor my labour if it wasn't for her. All throughout my journey the medical professionals that were supposed to support, guide and nurture me. They only failed me, scared me, judged me with everything that was said and done. My preferences were laughed at. My fears and worries were completely dismissed. I was shown no care what so ever. There was no guidance on how to nurture and nourish my body and baby. And there was no kindness that came with the countless appointments I had due to past history. From the minute I met with Tess, I felt safe, listened to, cared for and above all happy. She listened to my worries and fears. She never dismissed a thing that I had to say. She was there for every little question. Every little worry. And filled me with hope, strength and courage. Tess guided myself and my partner with complete and utter devotion. She taught us things about my body and our baby that we wouldn't have learnt anywhere else. When I had complications she would advise me on how I could help myself, rather than ignoring it like the doctors and midwifes would. Every step of the way I had her support and guidance. And when it came to my birth. I couldn't have done it without her. We had planned for a home birth and there were no midwives to attend. And I was too anxious to do so without medical support. Tess listened to me, she supported every decision. She stood by me and my decisions when hospital staff made rude and snotty remarks and kept feeding me fear. This beautiful soul helped guide me through my labour, she held me, she shared my space and she cheered me on unlike anything I could've ever asked for. When the obstetric nurse was dismissing me and trying to push me to make decisions I had already stated I was not comfortable with. Tess reminded me to keep my power and my strength. She helped me step into my power and to hold my space. Honestly, I would recommend Birth From Within to any expectant mother. Whether it is your first baby or you've faced motherhood before. She will make the experience unlike anything you have had before. She will completely and utterly change the experience for you and make you feel heard, understood, loved and supported every second that goes by. I am so thankful to have had her support and if I am ever lucky enough to have more children. There is no one else that I could imagine taking the journey with.

Kya, Addison and Luna