Dungannon midwife leads the ‘active way’

Sinead Quinn, works as a midwife and recently she became the first midwife in Ireland to be registered as an Active Birth Instructor.

The central principle of an ‘active birth’ is meant to make birth easier, safer, more efficient and less painful.

Author and founder of the term ‘Active Birth’ Janet Balaskas through her books inspired Sinead to look into active birth and soon it became Sinead’s ‘labour’ of love also.

In the 1970s a group of women in London believed in the benefits of an active birth but their hospital placed a ban on it. With the help of Janet Balaskas the Active Birth Movement was founded, rallies in London took place and in 1982 the Active Birth Manifesto was written.

Sinead trained as a registered midwife in Queens University Belfast. Her love of Active Birth led her to train with Janet Balaskas in London. The mother of two previously held a post in Accident and Emergency for many years, had a post in medical research and worked in remote Africa. She was party in receiving a M.U.M award in Westminster, London in November 2012 on behalf of Craigavon Area Hospital.

Sinead said: “I was drawn and signposted in my studies in Queens University by Janet Balaskas. She was an inspiration and the opportunity to be the first Registered Midwife in Ireland to certify with her was an honour.”

If you have had your baby 70 years ago or are expecting your baby this week or if you are a couple contemplating starting a family in the future, join us for a film screening of the Face of Birth at 10.00am on 24th August in Ranfurly House. This will be followed by an active birth class for anyone wishing to attend. Booking advisable! For more information, contact Sinead Quinn on 07843815157/ 02887725103.