Midwives in your pocket
How to safely prepare infant formula: a guide based on NHS and First Steps Nutrition Advice As a parent, ensuring the safety and well-being of your child is of utmost importance. When it comes to feeding your baby with formula milk, it is crucial to follow the correct guidelines to minimize the risk of contamination […]
Extended breastfeeding – the unspoken pressure to stop As a mother, the journey of breastfeeding has been an incredible and intimate experience. From the early days of struggling to latch, to the moments of pure connection and with both of my babies, it has been a bond unlike any other. Quite honestly, I’ve always felt […]
Hyperemesis Gravidarum: Navigating the stormy seas of pregnancy Pregnancy is a beautiful journey filled with joy, anticipation, and the occasional bout of morning sickness. However, for some women, this common symptom can escalate into a debilitating condition known as hyperemesis gravidarum (HG). HG goes beyond the usual queasiness and can have a significant impact on […]
The importance of having birth preferences in preparation for labour Preparing for the arrival of a new baby is an exciting time, but it can also be overwhelming. One important aspect of this preparation is thinking about your birth preferences. What is commonly referred to as a ‘birth plan’ we love to call ‘birth preferences’ […]
Caring for your baby in summer months It’s important to think about caring for your baby in warmer months, as for a lot of parents this causes far more anxiety when it comes to safe sleeping and the risks associated with dehydration. It is important to make sure that your baby’s room is a comfortable […]
Sickle Cell Disease in Pregnancy: Understanding Inheritance, Effects, and Risks Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is a genetic blood disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. For women who have SCD or carry the sickle cell trait, pregnancy can bring about unique challenges and considerations. In this article, we will explore how SCD is inherited, how […]
It is recommended that you buy a car seat before your baby is born and that you purchase one that fits your car and is suitable for a newborn baby. If you have your baby in hospital or a birth centre, you will need the car seat to drive your baby home safely, whether that is in your own car, or in a cab. It is a good idea to practise fitting the seat before your baby is born.
Okay, so as the big moment draws ever closer here are our 5 top tips for active labour:
– Always remain upright. Gravity is your best friend! Labour is hard enough on the body as it is, why not get the help we can with gravity by remaining in upright positions. Your body will push the baby down into the pelvis but if we stay in upright positions then gravity will help us so our body doesn’t need to work as hard!
The environment in which you choose to labour and birth your baby can have a significant impact on your experience. Remember, labour and birth rely on the hormone oxytocin, which in turn relies on feeling safe, relaxed and calm. Think about how you can replicate elements of your preferred birth environment in the setting in which you find yourself on the day.
First thing’s first – it’s a great idea to think about your hospital bag sooner rather than later. Babies do things in their own time and in their own way, with only 1 in 20 arriving on their due date. With this in mind, it’s a great idea to get those bags packed at around 36 weeks. Take it from us and don’t get caught packing your bags whilst in early labour!
