Mama’s Name: Sasha Mason @sashagmason

Second pregnancy

Tell us a little about your pregnancy journey:

Pregnancy both times was really difficult for me. I experienced Hyperemesis Gravidarum until about 26 weeks, both pregnancies and required multiple hospital admissions to receive fluid and IV medications. I loved having a bump and watching it grow and get rounder, however with a history of anorexia the other changes to my body brought many mental challenges.

What was your experience like using the Dear Me Mother-to-be journal during your pregnancy?

I LOVED the Dear Me Mother-to-be journal. I used this throughout my second pregnancy and it was so helpful to also reflect on my first pregnancy and birth and how aspects of it were playing out in fears, expectations or excitement for the second. I also found that sitting down and using the journaling time as sacred time to connect with the baby. I would intentionally focus on the kicks and movements whilst journaling.

Were there any specific practices, tools, or habits that supported your physical, mental, and emotional well-being during your pregnancy?

I went to acupuncture throughout my pre-conception and pregnancy which I found so grounding and helpful for managing different symptoms. Of course the journalling and the time to turn inwards and focus on myself and the baby was really important. I also had a doula which was an incredible tool for labour prep and postpartum healing.

Tell us a little about your birth experience:

I had a beautiful physiological water birth in hospital, which was only 6 hours long and 20 minutes of pushing for my second birth. My toddler got to experience me labouring at home before heading to hospital where Rowie, my Doula, met us and helped support a safe birthing environment. I would listen to my birth playlist I had put together and visualise the birth that I wanted for us. I watched a lot of positive birth videos and listened to many podcasts of women’s experiences of births which aligned with my wishes.

What is one thing you want maiden women to know about pregnancy and/or birth?

That it completely changes you as a person and it is okay for the change to happen. You’re allowed to grieve old parts of yourself and your life and the shift of friendships will hit hard – all of this is normal!