In-Conversation with Catherine Bell

In a pressured maternity system, student midwives are trained to ‘gain consent’ without learning what to do if a woman refuses. Shared decision-making often becomes ‘directed decision-making,’ leading to burnout, trauma, and unnecessary interventions. Research shows compassion improves maternal outcomes, reduces care provider burnout, and reduces system costs. Enter The Birth Map.

Join us as we gather at MacKenzie Quarters to explore Birth Cartography with Catherine Bell.
Date: Wednesday 12th February 2025
Time: 5.00pm until 8.00pm
Venue: 12 MacKenzie street, Bendigo, Victoria

Who is Catherine Bell?
Catherine Bell is a mother, consumer advocate, and Master of Science Communication who is about to complete her PhD.
During her training as a birth doula and breastfeeding counsellor, Catherine felt compelled to improve communication in maternity services. Frustrated by the limited information available for decision-making, and finding the ‘birth plan’ template inadequate, Catherine decided to expand it, accidentally writing her book —The Birth Map. 

What to expect
The evening will start with a grazing table and a chance to network. Catherine will then present the findings of The Birth Map Study and explain how The Birth Map can enhance communication, improve experiences, and support better decision-making in maternity care.
Next, Catherine will unveil the newly updated Game of Birth for the first time. Together, we’ll play the game and explore the pathways to preparation. Copies of Catherine's book, The Birth Map, will be available for purchase, followed by a book signing to close out the evening.