What are the benefits of different birth positions?

Research shows interventions such as instrumental births and caesarean sections are more likely to occur if women are laid back on a bed during labour. This is one of the reasons the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) advises midwives to encourage women to remain active in labour and birth. It …

Four benefits of an active birth

As midwives, we're always encouraging women to have an active birth, as it has loads of benefits for both mum and baby. In this blog we explore some of the benefits we think you'll find most useful! 1. Gravity is your friend in active birth Gravity helps your baby descend the birth canal …

Five reasons to do your pelvic floor exercises

Did you know the average pregnancy bump weighs around 6 kg? Therefore the pressure is building on your pelvic floor muscles before your baby even arrives! Pushing your baby out further weakens these muscles. This isn't good news for later life, which is why it's important to do your pelvic floor exercises …

Reduce the risk of pre-eclampsia through nutrition

Pre-eclampsia is a serious pregnancy disorder related to problems in the development of the placenta. Around 10% of pregnant women are affected and symptoms include protein in the urine, high blood pressure, swelling (oedema) and headaches. If you are overweight, over 35, carrying twins or have a family history of the …

6 coping strategies for early labour

Early labour is known as the latent phase and can last anywhere from a couple of hours to a few days. You will start to experience contractions, but they won’t necessarily in a continuous pattern. Your cervix will be starting to change, dilating up to approximately 4cm. It is advisable to …