Category: Labour and Birth
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Induction for a big baby and what has a hamster got to do with birth?
If you have listened to @themidwivescauldron back in November 2021 or follow Dr Sara Wickham, you probably know already. The Cochrane review on macrosomia (big baby) in 2016 showed that the difference in birth weight between the two groups: 1. Induced early 2.The spontaneous onset of labour/birth was 178g. The difference is equivalent to the size of a hamster or a…
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How to use your birth ball
How can you use your birth ball for pregnancy, childbirth and during the early postpartum? What is it? A birthing ball is the same as an exercise or gym ball. The name “birth or birthing ball” refers to this specific purpose. A birth ball can help rotation while the you are sitting or when standing…
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Can I use hypnobirthing during an induction?
One of the most frequent questions before clients book my hypnobirthing classes is “Can I use hypnobirthing during an induction?” The answer is YES. Hypnobirthing or mindful hypnobirthing is an invaluable skill during induction! In my opinion, mindful hypnobirthing techniques during an induction are even more important and useful than when having a straightforward birth experience!…
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Breathing Techniques for labour and birth
Breathing techniques for childbirth can be a useful tool to keep calm during the birth but also support the birthing process. Being calm and relaxed during childbirth can make the birth of your baby easier, quicker and more comfortable. There are many ways to help yourself or your partner to be calm during childbirth. Breathing…
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What to wear during childbirth?
A question that comes up frequently during my childbirth preparation classes is “What to wear during childbirth?”. The answer is, whatever feels comfortable to you. There are a few things you may wish to consider when deciding what to wear during childbirth The birth environment – While you are in control of the temperature of…
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How long does labour last?
How long does labour last? What is the average time for labour & childbirth? In medical terms labour is divided into three stages: 1st stage – where your uterus and body are getting ready. Your cervix is softening and will begin to open until it is fully open (dilated). It is sometimes referred to as…
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Positive Birth Affirmations
Positive birth affirmations are also know as positive self-talk or statements for a positive birth. Positive birth affirmations help to programme your subconscious to tune into your natural ability to give birth, your strength and resilience. Letting go of fears and to build your body-confidence is a big part of your hypnobirthing experience and helps…
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What is a gentle Caesarean Birth?
What is a gentle Caesarean Birth or Caesarean Section and why should expectant parents know about it? Gentle Caesareans mimic some of the natural processes of giving birth: A drug to encourage uterine contractions is given to the mother, so that your baby gets ‘pushed’ out by your uterus rather than pulled by the obstetrician.…
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The role of the birth partner
The role of the birth partner includes many different ‘hats’. But it could be as simple as being there… The key is the partner’s presence. Being there in the moment, being the guardian of oxytocin, the birth keeper, the advocate. Your role will be led by the birthing mother/person who you are supporting. Who can…
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Aromatherapy for Childbirth
Studies have found higher comfort and satisfaction when people use aromatherapy for childbirth during their birth experience. Whether you are planning to give birth at home, at your a hospital or midwife-led unit, Aromatherapy for Childbirth has become very popular recently. Many NHS trusts offer aromatherapy to mothers and birthing people during labour and their…
Tina Gibbs 