HB Doulas

Bronwyn Gardner - Childbirth Educator and Doula

I trained as a Childbirth Educator through Aoraki Polytechnic in Timaru, NZ and have been teaching antenatal education since 2006 when I started HB Doulas. Over this time I have had the privilege of attending many births as a birth support person or Doula.

A Doula is a non medical person who supports women and their families at whatever stage of their parenting journey they are at.
I feel very passionate about the importance of parenting and the challenges it creates.

Through my antenatal education I -
Encourage a mum's innate faith and confidence in her ability to birth in the way that she chooses.
Help mums to prepare a safe and non-threatening environment for the birth of their baby.
Support mums through the labouring and birthing period to obtain optimal postnatal recovery.

Birth preparation means more than just absorbing information - it means learning new skills and engaging your head and your heart.

My 8 week course, one on one sessions or intensive weekend courses are interactive and fun and offers an excellent opportunity to make new friendships and where expectant mums and dads feel supported and educated in their new role.

In addition to teaching, I sell and hire breast pumps as a way of supporting breastfeeding in our community. I am available to offer breastfeeding advice at any time. I have trained as a La Leche League Peer Counsellor and have a passion for breastfeeding mums and their families.

I teach antenatal education at Bay Wellness in Hastings. Check out the website for more information about the wonderful group of Practitioners who work there too www.baywellness.co.nz.

I also work as an Educator for Brainwave Trust Aotearoa. It's an amazing organisation promoting the importance of healthy experiences in the life of a child, particularly in the first three years in order to grow a healthy brain. I am an accredited Early Years, Adolescents and Schools Programme Educator.