Both of my pregnancies were considered "High Risk" pregnancies. Each one had very different issues ranging from low amniotic fluid to pre-eclampsia to 5cm dilation by 28 weeks to delayed growth to placental insufficiency to being 85% effaced at 5 months gestation and more. I spent 6 months on bed rest with my first pregnancy and 4 and a half months on bed rest with my second. In my experience, bed rest sounded like a treat to anyone that wasn't on it. For me, it felt like a prison. I felt fine and healthy and yet I was confined to my bed and even to hospital beds with bed pans at times.

Often, I felt as if I were failing my child. I felt that I should be capable of keeping them safe within me and I even blamed myself. My first pregnancy was at the tender age of 17 and when the look of concern crossed my technicians face at my first ultrasound I felt terrified. There even came a point where my doctor told me to prepare to lose my child and it wasn't out of cruelty but a sense of reality. Lucky for me and both of my children I never had to face that day.

Teen mother, mothers on bed rest or that are dealing with high risk pregnancies face a host of issues that women with uncomplicated pregnancies never have to endure. They go through depression, fear, anxiety, guilt for wanting to move about in a normal fashion and severe boredom. They also, often, have the added issues of other children, housework, meals to be prepared and a deep need for companionship; someone that understands.

Antepartum doulas can also be essential to teen mothers. Having been a teen mother myself I fully understand the emotional needs and support required by young women going through this journey. I am happy to offer antepartum services to teen mothers as well.

Without ever knowing it my mother was my antepartum doula and she was awesome. I moved back into her home for the end of my pregnancy and she took care of me. The housework and food were nice, the companionship and the hope she offered me were priceless gems I will forever cherish.

In a time where I was confused and scared she comforted my fears, held me when I needed to cry, listened when I needed to talk and cared for my mind, body and soul. I think all women facing extended bed rest and high risk pregnancies should have this type of care.

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