Midwives in your pocket
Evidence shows that the longer couples stay at home in the early stages of labour the more likely they are to have a straightforward birth, and positive birth experience. It isn’t unusual for first time parents-to-be to come to hospital prematurely, only to be sent away again following vaginal examination because they haven’t hit that magic 4cm.
Okay ladies and gentlemen, honesty hour – I used to rate single mothers so much more than couples who were doing this parenting thing together. Almost as if to say they were ‘stronger’ than non-single mothers. That was my mistake, life taught me very quickly that all mothers are strong and that all mothers play a single mother role whether we like it or not, whether they recognise it or not.
Whenever we would run our NHS clinics or speak to our Better Births Group Chat clients, we would be told the same thing – ‘my biggest fear is tearing!’ to which we would reply – same here babes. Anyone with a perineum would have this fear but as midwives especially, we know how common this is!
The key to a better birth experience is the part you play in the course your labour takes. Knowledge is most definitely power. Know the information, understand your choices, and feel empowered to make decisions. It is so important that you are an active participant in your care, rather than a passive recipient.
Feeling your baby move is a sign that they are well. If you notice that your baby’s movements have slowed down, changed, or stopped, it may be a sign that your baby is not well. Contact your maternity unit immediately if you notice any changes to your baby’s movements. This could save your baby’s life. There are staff on the maternity unit 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
The booking appointment explained. What will I be asked at this appointment? You’ll be asked in depth about your own medical history as well as your family history, any previous pregnancies you may have had and any social history. Sometimes the questions may feel a little intrusive, but this is simply because it’s the best […]
Creating a safe sleep environment for your baby is crucial and understanding the guidance set out by trusted charities and the NHS is key. In the UK, The Lullaby Trust raises awareness of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), provides expert advice on safer sleeping for babies, and offers emotional support for bereaved families. Their research underpins the advice offered by the NHS and is invaluable in promoting safe sleeping.
The early stages of pregnancy can be so daunting. Typically, people find out they’re pregnant when they’re about 3-4 weeks. They won’t have their first midwife appointment until they’re at least 8-12 weeks, but this is the time when people experience the most difficult symptoms. Nausea, vomiting, bleeding, abdominal pain to name a few. So where do you go? Who do you speak to?
