13. The Dangers of the "Nice Midwife" with Kemi BirthJoy Johnson

Normal Boring Freebirth for Normal Boring People

In this episode, we talk with birthkeeper Kemi Johnson and get our teeth in to the idea of the "nice midwife".

For many considering or preparing for freebirth, they will at some point come into contact with the kind of midwife who may be described as "really nice".

It's important to discuss this, as it's not uncommon for this seemingly supportive care to come crashing down. We explore the 'not all midwives' argument, the qualities of a truly nice midwife, and what can happen when we trust someone whose 'niceness' is somewhat shallow and based on wobbly foundations. We discuss ways that we can hone our discernment, conversations we can have with those we may want to choose for our care, and ways in which we can prepare well so that we are not dependent upon limited options. We explore the complexity of those who would love midwifery support during birth but who feel that freebirth is their only option, and the importance of true choice. We discuss that "no" is NOT a complete sentence and the real risks of declining care.

Can we have true bodily autonomy whilst birthing within the system? We're not convinced. We know it's not ALL midwives, but we don't know which ones are safe, and that's a problem.

Thank you Kemi for sharing your insights!

Follow Kemi on instagram: www.instagram.com/kemibirthjoyjohnson for details of how she could support your pregnancy and birth.

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Your hosts: Victoria ⁠⁠⁠⁠@freetobirth⁠⁠⁠⁠ & Leonie ⁠⁠⁠⁠@birthwise.withleonie⁠