“Pregnancy is not an illness and each mother must decide what is best for her and her baby.”
Amelie Freyermuth: Midwife opens up about her vision of motherhood and her profession.
Where does your vocation for the profession of midwife come from?
"My calling as a midwife is deeply rooted in my passion for the medical field. From the beginning, I was drawn to the uniqueness of this profession. Working with patients, in a context where illness is not the main issue, but where technical skills are essential, represents a stimulating and captivating challenge for me. I graduated in Metz, and since then, every interaction with mothers and babies has fueled my passion. From the daily practice of medical procedures to the moments of intense joy at the birth of a child, every aspect of this profession is both demanding and rewarding. Of course, there are also difficult moments, such as miscarriages that remind us of the fragility of life, but it is precisely this diversity of experiences that fuels my passion and pushes me to give the best of myself as a midwife."
Where did you have the opportunity to practice as a Midwife?
"I have had the chance to work in various places that have enriched my professional experience. My internships in Metz marked the beginning of my career. Then, I had the exceptional opportunity to spend six weeks in Polynesia in Tahiti. After that, I worked for a year in Mayotte. In addition to these overseas experiences, I have also worked in mainland France and abroad, notably in Luxembourg. These different experiences have allowed me to acquire an in-depth understanding of the practice of midwifery in varied cultural and geographical environments."
The metropolis versus the DOM-TOM?
"The distinction between working in metropolitan France and the French Overseas Territories is significant. In regions outside metropolitan France, the atmosphere is often more relaxed, and we tend to establish a more familiar rapport with patients, for example by addressing them informally. The feeling surrounding pregnancy is also different. In the French Overseas Territories, I have noticed that the atmosphere is less stressful, with more direct contact with patients. Patients generally have less anxiety and show greater trust in the medical profession. Mayotte presents particular challenges. Patients do not always follow their pregnancies due to limited access to social security. Some of them come from the Comoros and cannot afford ultrasound scans, due to financial constraints and differences in social security systems. In addition, many inhabitants of the French Overseas Territories are prone to diabetes, hypertension and pre-eclampsia, which can lead to serious complications for maternal and fetal health. In these regions, epidurals are less commonly used because they are not part of the widespread medical cultural norms.
What do you think about the Epidural?
"I am in favor of using epidurals. I think it is important not to give in to trends that glorify childbirth without epidurals, which are sometimes seen as fads. Epidurals are a very effective method of assisting childbirth. In metropolitan areas, patients and their loved ones sometimes let themselves be influenced by false information on social networks. It is essential to understand that epidurals are intended to relieve women's pain without harming them. Unfortunately, some hospitals and doctors are sometimes poorly perceived because of false information on this subject. However, in the French Overseas Territories, particularly in Mayotte, the use of epidurals is less widespread. Women are used to giving birth without resorting to them. In Mayotte, births often take place quickly, without epidurals, and women adopt a more relaxed attitude. In metropolitan France, on the other hand, people tend to research and consult a multitude of information before making decisions."
What are the different stages of monitoring a birth?
"The monitoring of a childbirth begins with the dating of the pregnancy and regular consultations with a midwife. Each month, the midwife carefully monitors the physical and mental well-being of the mother-to-be, gives her advice and organizes childbirth preparation classes. In the event of complications, specialized monitoring at the maternity ward can be considered. After delivery, the patient is transferred to the maternity suite for postpartum monitoring. Throughout the process, the emphasis is on emotional support to ensure a positive childbirth experience."
Where can midwives intervene?
"She can work in PMI (Maternal and Child Protection), in private practice, in hospitals, in family planning, as well as in the field of PMA (Medically Assisted Procreation) and IVG (Voluntary Termination of Pregnancy). We also do a lot of prevention work in schools."
What is your most memorable experience as a midwife?
"During my professional experience in Tahiti, I helped a mother give birth and she gave her little girl the same name as mine, "Amélie". It was a beautiful birth. Overall, all difficult births that end well remain beautiful memories."
What is the postpartum period and what are your recommendations for getting through it in the best possible way?
"The postpartum period, which occurs after giving birth, is a delicate and important phase for both mother and baby. It extends from the delivery until the return of menstruation at 6 to 8 weeks. In big cities, where the pace of life is often hectic, many women experience high levels of stress during this period. It is crucial to recognize the importance of help and support from those around them. Many women find it difficult to accept this help because they are used to controlling everything in their lives. Hormonal changes can accentuate this feeling, impacting moods and general well-being. My main advice would therefore be to encourage these women to accept the help of their family and friends, to let themselves be pampered and treated like princesses. I have found that many women who have accepted this assistance have experienced this period better. The fact that their entourage takes care of daily tasks such as preparing meals or doing laundry, considerably relieves the associated stress postpartum. In some cultures, this period is even ritualized with what is called the "golden month", where the woman is completely taken care of by her family for a month. During this month, she is treated like a queen, and everything is done to facilitate her physical and emotional recovery after childbirth. The support of the spouse is also essential. Their presence, support and help play a vital role in the general well-being of the mother and baby during this delicate period. In short, to best approach the postpartum period, it is crucial to accept the help of those around you, to let yourself be pampered and supported, and to cultivate an environment conducive to rest and recovery."
How long does a woman need to recover physically after giving birth?
"After giving birth, the body naturally undergoes changes. Typically, women notice weight gain, especially around the hips, especially petite women. These marks are a testament to life and become beautiful scars, almost like tattoos. Each woman recovers at her own pace, influenced by her body type and activity level. Some quickly regain their beautiful figure, while others take longer. Breastfeeding plays a significant role in weight loss, as it requires a lot of energy. This can accelerate the loss of the pounds gained during pregnancy. Recovery after giving birth varies depending on several factors, such as the woman's status (single or with children already present), as well as the number and difficulty of previous deliveries."
What do you recommend for cesarean scars?
"First of all, it is important to note that the itching sensation at the scar site is a positive sign, indicating a normal and physiological healing process. Although the discomfort can be difficult for patients to bear, it is essential to understand that these symptoms are an integral part of the recovery process and cannot always be avoided.
Here are some essential tips to help you recover from a cesarean section:
- Getting up quickly after surgery is crucial to avoid later complications. Prolonged immobility can make recovery more difficult.
- Avoid lying down for 3-4 days without getting up in bed. It is recommended to stay as active as possible, within reason, in order to promote optimal recovery. If a cesarean section is recommended by the gynecologist, it is imperative to follow his advice in order to minimize the risks of complications.
- Once the scar is completely healed, massaging around the scar area with oil can help restore the correct shape.
In addition, the use of powdered white clay, known for its healing and antiseptic properties, can be beneficial once the healing process has begun. It is recommended to apply the clay with a wooden spoon to avoid altering its properties. This method can also be applied to the baby's umbilical cord scar towards the navel, and it is also effective for perineal sutures."
How long does it take to re-educate your perineum?
"Peel-pelvic floor rehabilitation is an important step in postpartum recovery. This rehabilitation, which is usually performed by midwives, can also be carried out by physiotherapists or gynecologists. Although it can vary from one woman to another, it can begin when your period returns, i.e. at least 6 weeks after giving birth (10 to 15 sessions). It is crucial to avoid any sporting activity before starting rehabilitation, especially running, as well as lifting heavy loads such as the maxi cosi or packs of water. However, light walking can be undertaken as soon as you feel ready. Pelvic floor rehabilitation usually involves between 7 and 10 sessions to regain optimal tone and functionality of the perineum. It is important to note that this rehabilitation is not limited to the postpartum period; it can be beneficial at any age, even at 40 years old in the event of urinary leakage for example. Unlike sports and heavy lifting, patients can have sexual intercourse after giving birth as soon as they feel ready, they do not need to wait for perineal rehabilitation and they want to. Physiotherapists can also offer abdominal rehabilitation sessions, which are particularly beneficial for women who have had a caesarean section."
Sport after childbirth?
"After giving birth, it is recommended to wait until the end of pelvic floor rehabilitation before resuming any sporting activity. This rehabilitation period is crucial to restore the strength and tone of the pelvic floor, as sports can put additional pressure on this area of the body. It is important to note that inappropriate or overly intense physical exercise too soon after giving birth can compromise pelvic floor recovery and increase the risk of problems such as organ prolapse and urinary leakage."
Food. Are there foods to avoid and others to favor?
"To increase fertility, it is necessary to avoid endocrine disruptors and pesticides. During pregnancy, raw foods should not be consumed (raw meat, cold cuts, raw salmon for example to be avoided during). After childbirth, To prevent constipation after childbirth, favor foods rich in fiber (dried fruits, vegetables in particular). During breastfeeding, to avoid colic in the baby, it is advisable to limit the consumption of bitter foods such as oranges (because they are bitter), dairy products and cabbage."
A word about sexual intercourse during pregnancy and after childbirth?
"During pregnancy, sex can vary greatly from woman to woman. Some women may experience an increase in their libido, while others may experience a decrease. It is also common for couples to adjust to this new phase of their sex life during pregnancy. Open communication and mutual support are key to navigating the changes that may occur. After giving birth, there are generally no contraindications to intercourse, although it depends on when the woman feels ready, both physically and emotionally. Some couples may feel the need to wait a while before resuming regular sexual activity, while others may feel ready sooner. Again, communication between partners is crucial to ensure that both partners feel comfortable and supported in their choices."
What care do you recommend for mother and baby?
"Women are becoming more informed and are looking for natural and organic solutions to take care of themselves and their babies. For a woman who has just given birth and her baby, the use of a pH neutral and soap-free cleaning product is recommended. Ideally, the baby should be washed at most every other day, focusing daily on areas such as the bottom, neck and armpits. It is essential not to overwash a baby, especially the neck, where milk can accumulate. To take care of the delicate and fragile skin of babies, the use of natural products such as oil for massages is preferable. Traditional tips such as using sweet almond oil to treat cradle cap in the hair and white clay for scars can be beneficial. Walkers are not recommended for babies, as they can harm the development of the hips and encourage the habit of walking on tiptoes. For breastfeeding, using a mother-of-pearl nursing shell can help heal the irritated nipple, providing effective relief."
What do you recommend for eczema in babies?
"It is essential to consult a doctor and carefully check the composition of the products used, because babies' skin acts like a sponge and requires careful monitoring. In addition, babies born vaginally benefit from an additional layer of protection thanks to the mother's vaginal flora, which is essential for the development of their microbiota. When the baby is born, the parents wash it within two days and not directly at the end of delivery because the vernix (white deposit) present on its skin is beneficial and very protective."
A word about hair loss after childbirth?
"This is the hormonal drop. It's "normal". It's nature. Sometimes, some women have beautiful hair during pregnancy, more beautiful than usual. However, after giving birth, it falls out. It varies from woman to woman, but it's a common consequence of giving birth. Hormonal changes are the cause."
What do you think about prenatal yoga and sports during pregnancy?
"I recommend it 100%. Prenatal yoga, as well as other forms of physical exercise adapted to pregnancy, can offer many benefits, including stress reduction, learning to let go and maintaining good physical condition. Sophrology is also an excellent option to promote relaxation and stress management during pregnancy. It is especially important to emphasize that pregnancy is not an illness and that pregnant women have the right to practice physical activity, listening to their body and avoiding risky sports or activities that may be contraindicated. Fitness classes specially designed for pregnant women are an excellent initiative to meet the specific needs of this period. During pregnancy, it is best not to stop exercising, unless there is a contraindication."
A word about hair loss after childbirth?
"This is the hormonal drop, this phenomenon is considered "normal" and is part of the natural process. During pregnancy, some women can have beautiful hair, thicker than usual. However, after giving birth, it is common to notice hair loss. This process can vary from woman to woman, but it is common after giving birth due to hormonal changes. The body recovers gradually."
What is the pregnancy mask?
"The pregnancy mask is caused by an increase in the production of melanin in the body, a physiological process during pregnancy. It is therefore recommended to avoid exposure to the sun during this period. Applying sunscreen, wearing a hat and using a parasol are essential to protect yourself. The sun is in fact a triggering factor for the pregnancy mask. In addition, it is not recommended to expose newborns to the sun as this can increase their risk of skin cancer in the future. It is important to note that pregnancy masks do not disappear easily and it is essential to use sunscreen during pregnancy to prevent them."
Breathing exercises to facilitate the different stages?
"To facilitate the different stages of childbirth, breathing exercises play a crucial role. Taking childbirth preparation classes is highly recommended, as it helps to better manage pain and avoid panic. During childbirth, it is essential to learn to breathe slowly to avoid panic and jerky breathing. In addition, massages are of great help. Strategic pressure points, such as those located in the hand, can be stimulated to distract the brain from the pain. Lower back massages are also effective, and the partner can practice them to provide valuable support. It is important to understand that childbirth is like a wave, and breathing must follow this rhythm. This helps to better manage pain and remain calm during the process. In short, successfully controlling your breathing during childbirth is beneficial to relieve pain and avoid panic. Childbirth preparation, combined with breathing and massage techniques, can help make the experience more bearable and positive for the mother-to-be."
What do you think about the wrapped bath?
"It's a wonderful experience! Wrapping the infant in water evokes the nine months spent nestled in the mother's womb. This familiar sensation provides immediate comfort, naturally soothing the baby and promoting its well-being. This experience is appreciated by both toddlers and parents, strengthening family bonds and creating unforgettable memories from the first moments of life."
Massage for babies and pregnant women
"Absolutely, I highly recommend massages for babies and pregnant women. These moments of gentleness, especially with the use of a quality oil, offer an exceptional experience. The benefits go far beyond simple relaxation: they can soothe the symptoms of constipation and colic in babies, while promoting deep relaxation and strengthening the precious bond between parents and their unborn child. Indeed, relaxing pregnant women is essential, as they are often stressed. However, it is crucial to choose competent practitioners. Their expertise not only ensures the effectiveness of the massages, but also the safety and well-being of the mother and child."
What role can the dad play in this unique adventure?
"The role of the father is crucial and multifaceted throughout pregnancy and childbirth. He must be the mother's main support, accompanying her with love and understanding at every step of this extraordinary journey. The mother is the queen of this period, and the father is there to offer her all his support. His involvement from the beginning is essential. From ultrasound scans to antenatal classes, his presence and support are of paramount importance. He is there to share the emotional and physical burden of pregnancy, listening to the mother's needs and supporting her with tenderness and encouragement. After delivery, his role as a support does not diminish. He is there to help the mother in her postpartum recovery, surrounding her with support and affection as she adjusts to the challenges and joys of motherhood."
What do you think about baby brushes ?
"This is an excellent solution for gently removing cradle cap from babies' scalps, while being careful not to damage this delicate skin. Much appreciated by mothers, this method also offers a precious souvenir. Cradle cap results from an excess of oily secretions from the scalp, a natural process that all babies experience to varying degrees."
What does baby well-being inspire in you?
"The well-being of the baby is above all a serene, soothing and secure environment. For him to feel fully loved and protected, it is essential that he evolves in a place filled with calm and tranquility. When the baby cries, it is often his means of communication to express his need for comfort and closeness with his parents. After spending nine months in his mother's womb, the baby instinctively seeks the proximity of his parents, in a warm cocoon where he feels confident. Thus, carrying him in your arms provides a feeling of security and connection, reminding him of the sweet moments spent in the mother's womb. Concerning cosmetic products, I am in favor of those whose composition is of quality. Opting for suitable products guarantees the well-being and health of the baby's delicate skin, by providing it with gentle and respectful care. By making sure to choose safe and suitable products, we contribute to the comfort and overall well-being of the baby.
Every mother must decide what is best for her and her baby."
Amelie F. for La Rêverie Paris.
