BIRTH PREPARATION

PREPARE FOR A GOODBIRTH

I want all parents to be to have access to evidence based, realistic information, when for preparing for their birth.

Whatever your circumstances or background, all are welcomed.

Together we can maximize your potential for a POSITIVE birth, where you feel respected, confident and in control of your decisions. We can discuss your birth preferences, plans and options, and your parenting choices.

I have experience working in all birth settings, home, hospital and theatre. I work comfortably alongside Midwives, Doctors, Consultants and Paediatricians, with you as the most important person.

If you are considering DOULA SUPPORT AT YOUR BIRTH, please see Doula Services page for more information.

Antenatal education that is focused on practical information, which will help you feel more confident about your labour and birth. A birth partner or friend can join any course free of charge, and learn ways to support you, whatever kind of birth you may have.

WILLOW

Private Birth Preparation Course

Your private bespoke course consists of two antenatal classes, in your home (or at a venue you prefer), or at 'THE SNUG' at the GOODBIRTH office, or via video calls. A birth partner or friend can attend free of charge. Subjects relevant to you will be discussed, (see below) so that you will approach your birth with more knowledge and confidence.

The course is focused on your own individual needs. Together we can discuss your expectations, hopes or fears. I will guide you through evidence based information, so that you can make truly informed choices for your self. We focus on what is fact, what is a myth or not relevant to your area or situation, and how to consider realistic options available Prepare for your birth in a relaxing, informal way, at times that suit you.

Examples of course options:

Hospital Birth Prep

Homebirth Birth Prep

VBAC Birth Prep

Waterbirth Birth Prep

C section Birth prep

Induction of labour Birth Prep

Planned epidural Birth Prep

COURSE CONTENT

Subjects will be your choice depending on your circumstances and which course you choose, but may include:

Discussing your Birth Plans, options and preferences
Where to have your baby
Baby's position in late pregnancy
Spontaneous labour
Early labour signs and coping in early labour
The environment in the labour room
Induction of labour
Eating and drinking in labour
The importance of hormones
Stages (rhythms) and mechanisms of labour
Being mobile and active, changing positions in labour
Relaxation in labour
Birth partner support
Waterbirth
Home birth
Pain management options
Your options if things change
Decision making techniques
Massage and Rebozo scarf techniques
Biomechanics of birth
Caesarean Birth or Birth after Caesarean (VBAC)
Consultant care
Breech position
Multiple Birth
IVF
Previous traumatic birth
Immediate postnatal issues (placenta, cutting the cord etc)
Postpartum preparation
Early new born care

WILLOW Private Birth Preparation Course =£180

BAY

Private Birth Planning workshop

£90

This workshop is designed to focus on the most important things to you.

One meeting (3 hrs) at your home or at 'The Snug', providing time for you and any birth partner to discuss your plans and options. I will also offer practical tips and signpost to other services or information. You can choose the most relevant subjects from the above suggestions.

It can also be a helpful workshop if original plans or circumstances have changed. For example if an induction or c section that were not originally expected.

BAY Private Birth Preparation Workshop=£90

I cover areas in South Devon including Torquay, Paignton, Brixham, Totnes, South Hams, Dartmouth, Newton Abbott, and Teignmouth. UK/International for virtual support.

'THE SNUG' at Goodbirth in Torbay.

A relaxing, welcoming, nurturing space.

Private courses available at my office 'The Snug' in Brixham.

More options to consider:

Pregnancy Doula

Continuous, nurturing support throughout pregnancy, my CALENDULA PREGNANCY DOULA SERVICE offers the Willow private birth preparation course as above (6 hours) as well as ongoing practical, reliable information and time to discuss questions or subjects about labour, birth or the postnatal period, as they arise or evolve. Please see Doula Services page for more info.

Hypnobirthing courses

Please see service menu above

Birth Reflections

Talking through a previous birth experience, in a supportive, non judgmental, confidential session. A nurturing, positive start to help you prepare for your next birth with more confidence. This is not a Counselling service, and you will be advised to seek formal Counselling if needed. Birth partner or friend welcome to attend free.

2 hour session - £60 (or included in booked Willow birth prep, Birth Doula service, Pregnancy Doula service or Hypnobirthing course.

* Please contact me to discuss your needs. I believe all parents should have access to all these services regardless of circumstance or finances. Flexible times and prices can be discussed. Skill/service swap considered. DOULA UK AND DOULAS WITHOUT BORDERS ALSO OFFER SUPPORT.