Giving birth
Birth choices and what to expect.
Where to give birth
Birth is a life-changing event. It’s important that you can choose where you will feel most safe and comfortable.
Preparing for the birth
As your due date gets nearer, there are several things you can do to help prepare for the birth of your baby.
Labour
Most people go into labour from about 37 week’s gestation onwards. Every person’s labour is different and sometimes it can take a long time.
Induction
An induced labour is one that is started artificially with drugs and/or breaking your waters.
Pain control in childbirth
Labour can be painful – it can help to learn about all the ways you can relieve the pain.
Caesarean section
A Caesarean section, or C-section, is an operation to deliver your baby through a cut made in your tummy and womb.
Instrumental delivery
An instrumental, or assisted, delivery involves using a ventouse vacuum cup, or forceps (like large tongs), to guide your baby as you push with your contractions.
Vaginal birth after Caesarean
If you have had a caesarean section before it may still be possible to have a vaginal birth next time.
Breech baby
If your baby is lying bottom or feet first in the womb, this is called the breech position. You may need to make a few more decisions about your care.
Birthing twins and multiples
If you are pregnant with twins or more babies, a hospital birth in a consultant led unit, is recommended.