Moms and babies’ one-stop ‘shop’

A NEED for a 24-hour mother and baby clinic in Richards Bay has been met by registered nurse and midwife Yvonne Hutton, who recently opened a private practice to support and care for women during pregnancy and birth.

Retiring in February after 30 years in the profession, Hutton wanted to continue her contribution to society and her new venture ‘Babes and Bumps’ was born.

Her centre offers holistic services covering breastfeeding, post-natal care, immunizations, developmental assessment, antenatal classes , home-based palliative care, ailments and wound care.

Commemorating International Day of the Midwife last week, Hutton said she was proud to play a critical role in facilitating a healthy start in life for babies and a positive birth experience for mothers.

‘We are trained for deliveries and we can do it anywhere. I have a vivid memory of delivering a baby in the back seat of a Volkswagen.

‘Things have changed over time, but we have to bring midwifery back.

Hutton is a firm believer in the natural birthing process.

‘Natural is what we are designed for. Our bodies are designed to function with the baby during the birth.

‘The birthing process has been around for millions of years and we should not work against the natural way.

‘Yes, there are situations when this process is not possible and interventions must occur, but we have to change the mindset of women and encourage the natural option.

‘There is a miracle with each birth and as midwives we have the opportunity to play a big role in a pregnant woman’s life and share our knowledge.’

While Hutton does not have any children herself’, her three miscarriages have helped her to understand the pain of mothers who experience a loss.

‘I might not have had my own children, but I am grateful that I have helped care for thousands of babies and this is one of the most rewarding professions.

”It brings me immense joy. Society is all about giving back and I still have many more years to give back my community,’ she said.