Before the statewide merger of childbirth resource groups, Loudoun Birth Matters was part of MOM (Midwifery Options for Mothers). MOM hosted free childbirth classes, study circles, maternity expos, and held an annual award ceremony and dinner every year. The best of MOM has been woven seamlessly into the statewide group and Loudoun Birth Matters is now connected to groups around the state that are equally committed to bringing evidence-based care to all women in their communities.

Over the past year, the free monthly seminars and Birth Circles that we held in Leesburg and Purcellville were not the resounding success we had hoped for. However, we are confident that there are more effective ways to reach women in our area. Following a recent brainstorming session, we decided that we need to go to the places where women are already gathering, such as our local businesses, church groups and the cornerstone of midwifery care in our area - the offices of Loudoun Community Midwives!

That said, we will be focusing our attention over the coming year in the following two areas: 1) starting a Birth Circle within LCM's offices and 2) developing a set presentation of our own design, including possibly making our own video, to bring to the community.

If you would like to obtain more information about Birth Matters or would like to get involved, please do not hesitate to contact us! In addition, we would be happy to hold an informational meeting or Birth Circle upon request.

Local Director: Kristen Hickman
I am a stay-at-home mom to three wonderful children, ages 6, 4 and 2 years. I was drawn to Birth Matters after the birth of my third child. During my first two pregnancies, I was blessed to have been surrounded by a great support system and under the care of fantastic midwives. And as a result, I brought both my girls into the world naturally with my husband right by my side. During my third pregnancy, I found myself under the care of an obstetrician who was unsupportive of me and my wishes for a natural delivery. Following the suggestion of a good friend, I switched practices at 37 ½ weeks to a local midwife group and had the birth experience I had hoped and planned for with my son. For me, Birth Matters is an opportunity to share my experiences and lend support to other women and, more importantly, get support in return. It is also a way for me to help change the culture of birth - right here where I live - and be involved in something larger than my own life.