Facebook has been suppressing the open sharing of birthing images. The fear of childbirth is rife globally. It has become apparent that women gain confidence through the sharing of positive birthing images. We all see the pictures of a newly formed family, but rare are the images which depict the moment of birth itself in a calm, joyous and empowered setting. Seeing the expression on the mother's face as she lifts her baby to her chest, seeing a baby about to enter the world with the mother's face full of gritty determination is powerful.

Each image we see normalises and demystifies birth, and stores itself away in our subconscious, reminding us at the time of birth that 'those' women did it, I can do it too!

Suppressing these precious and important images as they become labelled inappropriate is unjustifiable. Should a woman happen to be naked when she gives birth, this does not a sexual image make. If women consent to the sharing of their intimate and empowered moments during birth for the purpose of supporting other women, and helping to lift the veil of fear, then it becomes questionable as to why images of birth are intercepted and quashed before they can make a positive impact, but images which are overtly sexual are deemed acceptable.

Please sign and share this petition to help to put a stop the double standards. Tell Facebook that we won't stand for this censorship and control, and that we will continue to stand in our power!

Thanking you in advance for your support and being the change,

Alison Howley