Pregnancy does not make your body public property.

Well duh! Seriously - you may have an extra heartbeat, but your body is still your own. ⁣
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From conception to cradle, you'll be touched a lot...Belly rubs, ultrasounds, blood tests, massages, cervical checks, breastfeeding assistance...the list goes on. Some are good touches, others feel invasive. ⁣
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I want you to know that you can (and should) set boundaries. ⁣
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I want you to know that consent is a double edged sword. You can refuse consent. ⁣
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Being touched without permission is at the root of assault, and all too often people enter into motherhood with birth trauma. ⁣
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It sucks, and we shouldn't have to feel like we’re defending ourselves, but sometimes we do. There are questions you can ask your care provider ahead of time. Red flags to look out for. Phrases that can give you time to make informed decisions. ⁣
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If you need help finding your voice, I can help. I can be your doula - 💌