1. Is it like the movies?
Most of us probably know by now that what’s on the TV or in the movies is usually a dramatized version of real life. Action and drama sell! It still affects us though. Especially for the children... many ideas about birth are formed early on and it’s not until adulthood that some of these beliefs are explored. I always like to ask people; where did you first hear about birth? How does this affect you today?
2. How will I cope?
Every woman is different, every baby is different and therefore every experience of birth is different. Everyone has a different way of preparing for birth. Some women have an unwavering belief that it will all be ok and go with the flow. Many women are motivated to learn about birth so that they have some tools to work with when the time comes to make the journey into ‘labour-land’. Asking yourself “What do I need to know to give birth?” can help you find some answers. Is it related to confidence? If so... ask yourself how are you nurturing confidence in yourself now, today? Start to foster the positive qualities within yourself so that when your big day comes, you will feel calmer and more confident in your ability.
3. Who can help me birth?
Just as there are many places to give birth, there are a many options for who can help you through pregnancy, birth and beyond. Obviously, having someone close to you like your partner or mother can be a blessing. Birth runs more smoothly when you feel safe and secure. Knowing your care providers and birth supporters will make a big difference to how relaxed you feel when you are birthing. Many healthy women choose to have a midwife support them during pregnancy, birth and the postnatal time. There are options called ‘case load’ or ‘continuity of care’ where the woman can have the same midwife care for her through her pregnancy and birth. When complications arise or surgery is required, then obstetricians are the specialists.
There is a growing trend for women to also hire a doula. A doula provides emotional, physical and practical support as well as providing information/education (during pregnancy and birth). Each doula is different, but I like to address any fears/worries, help the woman discover her choices and options for birth, provide pregnancy massage and teach breath awareness (plus more!). I then support the woman for as long as she needs during early/active labour and birth. Having continual support from a trained doula can make labour shorter and easier whilst decreasing the likelihood of interventions.
Whoever you choose to support you, it’s important to discuss what it is that you are wanting and make sure your supporters are ‘on the same page’ as you. If you are not happy with your care, or don’t feel comfortable, try to find someone that you connect with.
4. Are there classes I can take?
Yes! If you would like holistic antenatal classes that help you and your partner feel more confident about birth, then I can help. I hold regular classes
Most of us probably know by now that what’s on the TV or in the movies is usually a dramatized version of real life. Action and drama sell! It still affects us though. Especially for the children... many ideas about birth are formed early on and it’s not until adulthood that some of these beliefs are explored. I always like to ask people; where did you first hear about birth? How does this affect you today?
2. How will I cope?
Every woman is different, every baby is different and therefore every experience of birth is different. Everyone has a different way of preparing for birth. Some women have an unwavering belief that it will all be ok and go with the flow. Many women are motivated to learn about birth so that they have some tools to work with when the time comes to make the journey into ‘labour-land’. Asking yourself “What do I need to know to give birth?” can help you find some answers. Is it related to confidence? If so... ask yourself how are you nurturing confidence in yourself now, today? Start to foster the positive qualities within yourself so that when your big day comes, you will feel calmer and more confident in your ability.
3. Who can help me birth?
Just as there are many places to give birth, there are a many options for who can help you through pregnancy, birth and beyond. Obviously, having someone close to you like your partner or mother can be a blessing. Birth runs more smoothly when you feel safe and secure. Knowing your care providers and birth supporters will make a big difference to how relaxed you feel when you are birthing. Many healthy women choose to have a midwife support them during pregnancy, birth and the postnatal time. There are options called ‘case load’ or ‘continuity of care’ where the woman can have the same midwife care for her through her pregnancy and birth. When complications arise or surgery is required, then obstetricians are the specialists.
There is a growing trend for women to also hire a doula. A doula provides emotional, physical and practical support as well as providing information/education (during pregnancy and birth). Each doula is different, but I like to address any fears/worries, help the woman discover her choices and options for birth, provide pregnancy massage and teach breath awareness (plus more!). I then support the woman for as long as she needs during early/active labour and birth. Having continual support from a trained doula can make labour shorter and easier whilst decreasing the likelihood of interventions.
Whoever you choose to support you, it’s important to discuss what it is that you are wanting and make sure your supporters are ‘on the same page’ as you. If you are not happy with your care, or don’t feel comfortable, try to find someone that you connect with.
4. Are there classes I can take?
Yes! If you would like holistic antenatal classes that help you and your partner feel more confident about birth, then I can help. I hold regular classes