I have discussed my experiences with women, if they want to know, but never offer my own unless they ask directly. It does seem to be more important to them than us, and that warrants thought before action, whether they believe having children makes us better midwives I don't know, it's possible they might at times...

For me I managed labour without too much intervention, perhaps my pain threshold is higher, and many other contributory factors, and despite hospital labours my experience was generally good. Though I am passionate about normality and get disheartened seeing so much intervention, I am learning it has its place.

Personal experience also has its place and yes, if I am honest my own experiences can and do often help, but can work negatively too at times.

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