142 Telling the Truth and Holding Space in the Postpartum Period with Jennie Joseph

Michelle is incredibly honored to have midwife Jennie Joseph share what is in her heart and on her mind- holding space for families following the birth of their baby. Jennie explains why the United States is dismal in regard to postpartum care practices and support. Jennie stresses that we must listen and hold space for families and each other as birth professionals. We must learn and understand how to do it well so that we are helping and not adding to any potential pain and trauma to what they are already carrying. Jennie clarifies that holding space is simply that. Just be quiet and encourage them to feel comfortable, to feel like they can trust you. And show that trust by listening with respect, maintaining that dignity, and not centering yourself in the sharing. Jennie shares why we must bring into conversations racism, classism, gender discrimination, injustice, and the historically institutional way of being because those are the actual causes of the disparity. Everyone is impacted when we are not supported to be in our humanity. Commonsense Childbirth Inc.'s guiding statement is "We are building a movement to birth a more just and loving world." To make a donation visit: https://www.commonsensechildbirth.org Instagram: @iamjenniejoseph, Facebook: Jennie Joseph - Midwife, Twitter: @JennieJoseph The Birth Place: www.TheBirthPlace.org Easy Access Women’s Clinic: www.EasyAccessClinic.com You can connect with Michelle at www.birtheaseservices.com, on Facebook @thebirtheasepodcast and @BirthEaseMethod, and on Instagram @birtheasemichellesmith