Labour Positions
Labour positions When you are in labour, it’s really important to listen to your body and find positions which work for you. It can be challenging to feel comfortable during labour and you may have to try different positions at different stages to help you cope with the pain. If possible, it is best to […]
Midwife Appointments
Midwife appointments Much of the care and support you receive during your pregnancy will be from a midwife. Most parents-to-be will be assigned to a community midwife and will see the same person for appointments throughout their pregnancy. You may from time to time see a different midwife depending on shifts and holidays. If your […]
How to prevent tearing during birth
How to prevent tearing during birth Experiencing some kind of tear or graze is a common result of a vaginal delivery. For most women, any perineal tear will be fairly minor and heal quickly but in some cases, it can be more serious. The good news is that there are things you can do to […]
Keeping Cool When Pregnant
Keeping cool when pregnant Being pregnant in the summer months can be tough. Many mums-to-be feel much hotter than they usually do at any time of year but when temperatures are soaring outside, it can be challenging to stay cool. When you are pregnant in hot weather, it is particularly important that you protect yourself […]
Birth Options
Birth options As your pregnancy progresses, you may want to start thinking about how and where you would like to give birth. If you are in good health and your pregnancy is considered to be low risk, you will have a number of birth options to choose from. You could choose to have your baby […]
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 are Braxton Hicks contractions?
What are Braxton Hicks contractions? The first time you feel your bump tighten, you might think you’ve gone into labour. But before you grab your hospital bag or call your birth partner, take a moment as you might actually be experiencing Braxton Hicks. Braxton Hicks are sometimes referred to as false labour pains and although […]
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 […]
