What to pack into your birth bag aka hospital bag during this pandemic? Are there any essentials that you've missed? Find out... Pack one bag for mum, one for baby/babies and one for your birth partner COVID-19 TopUPs are highlighted in bold Bag for mum Your birth plan and maternity notesComfy, lose-fit dressing gown Nighties… Continue reading Birth bag tips (COVID-19 TopUPs)
Studies have found higher comfort and satisfaction when people use aromatherapy during labour. Some essential oils may help decreasing nausea and vomiting. In one large study, more than 50% of mothers rated aromatherapy as helpful for coping with labour and birth. In general, aromatherapy may promote relaxation, ease anxiety, and promote greater satisfaction with your… Continue reading Aromatherapy for Labour & Childbirth
Pregnancy is often a woman's first significant introduction to the healthcare system. Suddenly, you have to make all sorts of decisions for you, your baby and your family unit. You'll be faced with difficult choices around your healthcare during your pregnancy and birth. Often you'll be influenced by healthcare professionals, your family and friends, media,… Continue reading Informed Choice
Recovery after Caesarean Birth Emotionally How you will feel after a caesarean birth depends on what your expectations on the birth of your baby were as well as on what happened before and during the birth. The caesarean rate in England is close to 25% (Birth Choice UK, 2011), therefore there is always a chance… Continue reading Recovery after Caesarean Birth
A gentle Caesarean Birth, 'just' a new trend or the step forward? What do you think? If you are having a planned Caesarean Birth, you have quite possibly some time and options to make the experience your own. Do you know your options? Do you know what others have done? This post is about some… Continue reading A gentle Caesarean Birth
What are the things you really need to pack in your birth bag? For mum your maternity notes birth preferences / plan (if you have) TENS machine (if you are planning to use one) warm socks in case you get cold feet during labour light clothing (hospitals and birth units are often very warm) Snacks… Continue reading Your Birth Bag
Attending childbirth preparation classes with your partner will help with your understanding of what is going on and what she is talking about. There is also some new vocabulary you may wish to learn. Be available by phone, especially closer to the due day. Have your own hospital or homebirth bag including: change of clothes, swimming trunks to… Continue reading Going to be a birth partner? Do’s and don’ts.
A Aromatherapy, Acupuncture, Acupressure and Ask for information: the more you know, the more relaxed you'll feel, Fresh air B Breathe rhythmically, and relax as you breathe out, have a bath, birth ball, read a book, bake something C Cuddles, use electronic candles to lower the lighting and change the mood, change position, communication, comfort… Continue reading A-Z of self-help for labour and birth
A main concern for all expectant mothers is the estimated due date. Anything said here is NOT medical advice. If you have any concerns about yourself or your baby, please speak to your doctor or midwife. Only about 5% of all babies in the UK are born on their "due date" (NCT, 2012). A normal pregnancy… Continue reading Overdue = Induction of labour?!?
Within the UK parents-to-be can choose between three different environments to give birth in:
Labour ward (Obstetric Unit or Delivery Suite)
Birth Centre (Birth Unit or Midwife-led Unit)
Home
To understand and compare which choice is for you, there is some information about differences between the three.
