What happens at my first antenatal appointment?
What happens at my first antenatal appointment? Your first antenatal appointment will usually take place when you are between eight and 10 weeks pregnant. Known as the booking appointment, this is likely to be the first time you meet your midwife and they will spend time talking to you about your circumstances, family history and […]
Essential Oils in labour
The best essential oils for labour Essential oils can have a calming and soothing effect during labour. They can be really effective at helping you manage your pain and feel less anxious when you are at home in the early stages. Some midwifery-led and maternity units offer aromatherapy during labour as a complementary therapy so […]
What does the placenta do?
What does the placenta do? When you become pregnant, your body doesn’t just grow a human being, it develops a whole new organ to nourish your baby too. The placenta, sometimes referred to as the afterbirth, has a vital job to do. It supports your baby, giving them the things they need, including oxygen and […]
Looking after your pelvic health
Looking after your pelvic health Pregnancy places a big strain on your body and can put your pelvic health under pressure. Pelvic health relates to your bladder, bowel and reproductive organs and it is important to look after these now to prevent problems later. One of the main ways you can look after your pelvic […]
How antenatal classes can prepare women and reduce birth trauma
How antenatal classes covering C-section and instrumental birth can prepare women and reduce birth trauma Knowing what to expect when giving birth can help you prepare yourself mentally so you can feel informed and empowered. Every pregnant woman hopes they will have a simple, straightforward and problem-free labour and birth. However, sometimes things don’t go […]
Private Scans – are they worth it?
Private scans – are they worth it? Are you thinking about paying for a private ultrasound scan during your pregnancy? Pregnant women now have more choice of private scans than ever before. You can pay for scans to find out your baby’s gender, gain reassurance in the early weeks of pregnancy and get a clear […]
What does it mean to be rhesus negative?
What does it mean to be rhesus negative? At your first appointment with your midwife, you will provide samples of your blood for testing. From this, you will find out what your blood group is and whether you are rhesus positive or negative. Around one in six women in the UK are rhesus negative, which […]
What is folic acid and why is it important?
What is folic acid and why is it important? Folic acid is a vitamin which plays an important role in the development of growth and cells. Women are recommended to start taking a folic acid supplement as soon as they start trying for a baby and during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. Folic acid […]
Benefits of a pregnancy pillow – My top 5 recommendations
Do you really need a Pregnancy Pillow? In my honest opinion…YES! Do I need a pregnancy pillow? As your pregnancy progresses, you may find yourself asking “Do I need a pregnancy pillow?” It can get more and more challenging to find a comfortable position and get a good night’s sleep. I remember so well the […]
When can I find out the sex of my baby?
When can I find out the sex of my baby? Whether you find out the sex of your baby during pregnancy or wait for a surprise when they are born is a completely personal choice. But if you do decide you want to know whether you are expecting a boy or a girl, you might […]
