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.
If you were lucky enough to delve between lines of this blog last week, you may remember the challenge I set myself persuading a sceptical Mr Hubby of the values of re-usable nappies. Persuading the hubby can sometimes be like riding a bike uphill in a stiff wind, but just like the equally stiff wind… Continue reading Persuading the Hubby: Waterbirth in the kitchen by Lara Robinson
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?!?
“I think we should go for use re-usable nappies, what do you think?” I asked my hubby as I rested my hand on my bump. It was one of those seemingly innocuous questions in the last couple of months of my pregnancy which brought a strange look of fear and horror across his face, closely… Continue reading Persuading the Hubby: Reusable Nappies by Lara Robinson
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.
#10 Be strong for her and your baby Finally, yes, be strong. You have got this! You can do this! The midwives will be there to support you both also. Be strong, be confident! Thank you for following this little series. I hope you've found it helpful. All these tips have been collected from new… Continue reading How to be a supportive birth partner #10
#9 Reassure her. Often all that is needed is a bit of reassurance. Being in labour and giving birth can be hard work and tiring. Reassuring words, eye contact and touch can help your partner to get through it all. You might also want to try some praise or affirmations such as "You are strong." or "You,… Continue reading How to be a supportive birth partner #9
#8 Support her choices. It is important that your partner feels supported in her choices. It may be beneficial to discuss her choices and agree on few prior to going in to labour. Some women choose to write a birth plan, others prefer to write down just a few preferences. If you have strong believes… Continue reading How to be a supportive birth partner #8
