Tag Archive for: birth without fear

The seduction of induction at Xmas

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We are coming into silly season

The time when Xmas plans are being made and when you’re pregnant you’re most likely hoping for your baby’s sake he or she is not born on Xmas day

If your baby is due around Xmas there is often the seduction of being induced to be sure your baby doesn’t have to share hospital birthday

With that concern comes the seduction to accept an induction of labour

Ask any midwife in a private hospital and they will be dreading the week leading up to Xmas as they know the “induction book” will be bursting at the seems with inductions

Of course any one would rather keep Xmas day and the days either side quiet so that more staff can spend the day with their families .

But Xmas ( Easter etc etc ) are not valid reasons to induce a baby .

Induction of labour techniques were introduced with the good intention of ending pregnancy early when there is valid medical reason .

Valid reasons can include hypertension of pregnancy and or a baby who doesn’t seem to be growing and thriving in utero .

Induction of labour comes with risk . When the benefits of induction ( such as reducing risk of hypertension for mum or slow growth for baby ) outweighs the risks – then of course induction should happen in a timely matter – no matter what day of the week it is .

When the reason for induction is – Xmas day / Easter / weekend / Doctor going on holiday – the benefit probably doesn’t out weigh the risk .

What are the risks of induction of labour ?

More discomfort during the labour process and therefore more use of pain medications

More risk of baby becoming distressed during the “artificial” contractions leading to increase risk of instrumental birth ( forceps or c section

Increased risk of infection

Increases risk of postpartum bleeding

Increased risk of baby needing special care nursery due to distress / infection / lung immaturity

Increases risk of baby needing care for jaundice a associated with being born before due date and the use of forceps

Decreases breastfeeding rate – due to pain relieving medication and baby immaturity

Increases risk of perineal tears

Decreased satisfaction of birth experience ( due to increased levels of discomfort )

There have been studies over the past decade which have resulted in higher number of women being “offered” induction of labour – the study did not look at the impact of induction on baby’s in short and long term .

The rates of induction over the past 2 decades have increased dramatically

The percentage of stillbirth has NOT decreased ( and therefore induction of labour at 39-30 weeks can not be claimed to reduce stillbirth rates

Many women are also offered / encouraged induction due to their baby being “large” . This estimate is based on ultrasound which is not effective at predicting size and can over ( or under) predict by 10-20 percent .

Having an induction of labour to avoid Xmas day may seem very enticing BUT keep your eye on the longer term effects of unnecessary interventions .

Gaining more knowledge about your options for birth is vital for you and your baby ( physical and mental wellbeing)

My positive birth classes provide you and your partner with the knowledge , tools and confidence to advocate and take charge over your pregnancy and birth

Induction of labour tips

When is THE best time to begin Hypnobirthing ?

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When is the best time to start a hypnobirthing class?

All too often I have messages from mums at 36 weeks ask if it’s too late to do Hypnobirthing !!

While it’s never too late ( I’ve had a mum start at 38 weeks – we had to do a full day intensive to be safe) it’s ideal to begin between 20-30 weeks gestation .

By starting as early as 24 weeks – you gain a great deal of knowledge and confidence about your options throughout pregnancy.

I’ve had a few couples , who have reevaluated their choices in care provider after beginning their Hypnobirthing classes . The reason- they started to follow their gut – that the care provider was suggesting interventions around birth before there was indications !

Hypnobirthing is more than just feeling calm and in control of your options – it’s about developing an understanding that each birth is different BUT it IS what your body is meant to do . We emphasise that yes interventions are great IF we need them BUT all too often – our society is over medicalising birth . When you are armed with knowledge you have the confidence to demand individualised care and only accept interventions when they suit your individualised situation .

What’s more – your partner and you will be able to work as a team – fully confident about what you need during pregnancy and birth to have a positive experience .

To have a better idea of why I am so passionate about private childbirth education classes – watch a birth documentary called birth time – it’s gives a personal perspective of birth from many women in Australia .

If you’re ready for a positive birth- BOOK NOW

If you have any questions please call me direct 0409480493

Learning techniques for a calm birth

Be THE most supportive birth partner ever

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Be THE most supportive birth partner ever

Many partners feel as though pregnancy and birth is a time where all the attention is focused on the mother growing her little bundle .Partners can often feel as though they are on the outside and dont know what thie role is .

In fact your role IS vital- you can make such a difference to a mothers experience of labour and you can set yourself up to be the person she attributes to her amazing experience (no matter how her birth pans out)

By being involved and knowledgeable , she will likley brag about how amazing you were in supporting her through a very challenging but rewarding day .

One of the best things about hypno-birthing classes , is that partners report they gained confidence and knowledge which wa snot available through the hospital classes.

  1. Educate Yourself: Knowledge is power. Learn about the stages of labor, comfort measures, and your partner’s birth preferences. Attend hypno-birthing childbirth classes together if possible.
  2. Stay Calm and Positive: Your calm demeanor can be contagious. Encourage and reassure your partner throughout the process. During my hypno-birthing classes we will cover many tools including ” positive affirmations” which help you adjust your mindset and your partners
  3. Advocate for her wishes : Be familiar with your partner’s birth plan and preferences. Communicate these to the maternity team and help ensure they’re respected unless medically necessary.
  4. Provide Physical Comfort: Offer massage, counter-pressure, or help with breathing techniques. A simple light touch or holding hands can also be comforting.During hypnobirthing classes we will show you both light touch and accupressure points
  5. Keep her  Hydrated and Nourished: Offer water and snacks as allowed. Labor can be exhausting, and staying hydrated and fueled is important.
  6. Create a Relaxing Environment: Dim the lights, play soothing music, or use aromatherapy if desired. Help your partner find a comfortable position.
  7. Be Present: Your emotional support is invaluable. Listen actively, offer encouragement, and be there every step of the way.
  8. Stay Informed: Keep updated on the progress of labor and ask questions if something isn’t clear. This shows your commitment to being involved and informed.
  9. Be Flexible: Birth plans may need to  change, if  unexpected situations  arise. Be adaptable and supportive of decisions made for the well-being of your partner and baby.
  10. Celebrate Together: Once your baby arrives, share in the joy and celebrate this special moment as a team. Your support doesn’t end with labor; being a supportive partner continues into the postpartum period as well.

When you attend my hypno-birthing/positive birth preparation classes either online or in person-you and your partner will gain knowledge tools and confidence to meet the challenges and triumphs of birth

 BOOK NOW 

Top tips for choosing an OB in Adelaide

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What’s the lowdown on choosing an obstetrician for birth

Choosing an obstetrician for birth is an important decision that involves a number of considerations

Cost

•  Check the out of pocket expenses for your obstetrician , paediatrician and anaesthetist ( in case you decide to have an epidural)
• Many couples choose to see a private OB because they have private insurance BUT don’t realise there are a lot of out of pocket expenses $$$

Philosophy and Approach:

Does  the obstetrician’s approach to childbirth align with your preferences, such as a natural birth, epidural use,

Communication and shared decision-making are crucial.(Of course best laid plans can certainly change , requiring interventions )

• When you look at their website – do you get the feeling they’re more c section focused !
• Their website may give you a good indicator of their values
• Ask the receptionist for their c section and induction rates•
• WHO says c section rates should be 10-15 percent BUT in Australia our rates are around 30 percent – an OB with rates of 40-50 percent is concerning
• When you sign up with an OB you must be aware the medical view of birth is one of managing risk – which may sound comforting BUT can come with a very interventionalist view of birth

Where would you like to birth

•Ensure the obstetrician is affiliated with a birthing hospital that you are comfortable with and is conveniently located.
• You may not know if you’d like your birth in water right now – but it’s a great way to labour and reduces the need for pain relief significantly – most private hospitals in South Australia DO NOT “allow” water birth but your OB may have rights at a public hospital that does .

The OB support team

• Inquire about the obstetrician’s support team, including midwives.

  • Some OBs have midwives attached to the practise who can spend time providing you with more education about childbirth and breastfeeding

• Understand their availability for antenatal visits, emergencies, and labor.

  • Will they be available when your due date approaches ?
  • What are their backup arrangements?
  • Are you just as comfortable with their back up OB ?

Continuity of care with a known midwife is important

• Usually the midwives in an OB practise are there to check BP and have a brief chat before your

  • Continuity of care with a midwife is associated with lower rates of stillbirth, prem birth and greater satisfaction

Just because your friend loved their OB doesnt mean that is the right fit for you

• Patient Reviews and Recommendations: Read reviews from other patients and seek recommendations from friends, family, or online communities. Personal experiences can offer valuable insights.

• Communication Style: Consider their communication style and how comfortable you feel asking questions, expressing concerns, and discussing your birth plan with them.

• If you feel that you can’t discuss your preferences on an even playing field – they’re not the OB for you

Aftercare

• Postnatal Care: Discuss their approach to postnatal care, including follow-up appointments, breastfeeding support, and postpartum wellness.

Some OBs have midwives within the practise who can provide extensive lactation support for you after birth – you may want to meet with a lactation consultant (LIKE ME ) before birth to ensure you know what to expect and what you can do to minimise nipple pain after birth

By considering these factors and conducting thorough research, you can choose an obstetrician who aligns with your needs and preferences, ensuring a positive and safe childbirth experience

If you would like to discuss your options please contact kate

How to have an active birth

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How to have an active birth

An active birth is often the key to achieving a vaginal birth with less need for pharmacological pain relief.

Your body i built for birth but with impact of TV, internet and medical involvement in this natural process, society has lost perspective.We see so many dramatic birth, we hear so many traumatic stories and medical science crates such a fear , that we have lost perspective.

In fact research shows that women who are well informed about how the female body , hormones and environment work in sync, have more positive bieth outcomes than women who only receive standard childbirth education.

What is the difference ?

In standard childbirth classes, women are informed about medications, procedures and hospital policies.

Information is often presented in such a way that women and partners feel they dont have choices about procedures.

STaff are employed by the hospital and therefore the content is dictated by the organization.

Independant childbirth classes

Provide evidence based, natural   , positive and empowering information.Couples are provided with more infomration on how the hormones worlk with the body to promote natural labour.

Youll recive information about different positions, breathing techniques, accupressure points and undrstand how they work with your body to promote natural birth

Accupre4ssure pointslight touchPr4essure points help labour

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Epidural and Labour

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