My name is Thayla Ateş, and I am a dedicated Doula and perinatal educator specializing in childbirth and newborn care. My personal journey through motherhood, with two very different natural births, has shaped who I am today. My first birth in Brazil was an experience of emotional and physical devastation, marked by obstetric violence. It left me deeply shaken, fearful of labor, and uncertain about childbirth. When I became pregnant with my second daughter, I knew I needed a different approach. I chose a home birth, supported by a midwife and a doula, to reclaim my confidence and repurpose my fears around labor. Having a doula by my side was essential in creating the calm, empowering birth I had longed for, a birth that allowed me to heal and transform my perspective on childbirth. For the past 8 years, I have lived in Ankara, Türkiye, after spending 4 years in London, UK. As an expat mom, I understand the unique challenges of navigating pregnancy and birth in a foreign country, where the cultural and medical systems can feel overwhelming. This is why I am passionate about supporting other expat mothers, helping them feel informed and confident no matter where they are. I chose to become a GentleBirth instructor because I believe in the profound impact of mental preparation on the birthing experience. GentleBirth gave me the tools to approach birth with a sense of control and calm, and I want to share that empowerment with the families I support. It’s not just about birth, it’s about nurturing confidence, reducing fear, and ensuring parents feel truly supported. I deeply understand the emotional complexities of childbirth, especially for expats navigating different cultures. My goal is to help you feel empowered, well-informed, and fully prepared for the birth you deserve.