When your contractions become more intense and you need to focus more on them you may want to settle in one space or you might be happy to keep wandering – go with what feels right.
birth/gym ball – to sit on/lean on to be more comfortable, to rest and to
ease back acheblanket/scarf – to be cosy, safe and warm
pillows – to prop you up, to lean on, to kneel on
drinks and straws – drink often to stay hydrated
healthy food & snacks – eat little and often to keep your energy up, have
healthy snacks available so you can just grab them as you need themcomfortable clothing – so you can move, rest and feel cosy when you need to, especially in early labour
a familiar smell – smell is very powerful so a smell that helps you to feel relaxed and calm can be very beneficial
music – listen to music to relax you, to help you calm your breathing
headphones - these can also be useful to listen to music and to help you to focus
soft lighting – use lamps, candles, fairy lights to create a more relaxing space
While maternity units are very well equipped it is still useful to think about what you can take into hospital with you – this is about giving yourself options and
more control. Taking your own things in with you can also mean you have some familiar items with you.
Your Birth Environment - a checklist
When you are in labour it can be beneficial to think about what could be helpful for you…
do you feel safe, comfortable and calm?
are you warm enough?
does the light need switching down?
is it quiet enough?
are there too many people in the room?
are you on your own? Do you need a midwife with you?
do you need to move or change position?
can you focus on your breathing?
do you need information and reassurance?
do you understand what is going on?
do you need a drink or some food?
These simple things can have an impact on how you feel in labour so it is always worth looking at what change could be needed, especially if you can’t settle or focus.
Labour and birth is unique and there isn’t one right way of doing it for everyone - this is something we will be focusing on with the weekly posts.
Your birth preparation options include accessing the birth guides and you can also book consultations with me.
You can also leave a comment with any questions.
Coming up:
birth mindset
writing your birth plan
positions for pregnancy, birth and with your baby
the 4th trimester
growth spurts
managing a new baby with older siblings
feeding