Optimising the birth environment...

If all is well, we tend to birth best when we feel safe and secure: familiar, quiet, private, comfy, warm and dimly-lit. Wherever you expect to give birth, plan a fully transportable 'birth bubble'. Try to visit your local unit to familiarise yourselves with the space and ask questions, even (especially) if you're planning a homebirth.

"Early and then active labour was at home in our bedroom... The cat got into the wardrobe and noisily insisted that I joined her - she made a nest to deliver my kittens (!!) I smile so much when I think of it" Rae, Cornwall

Hospital birth...

• Bring your birth plan
• Make the space YOURS
• Bring a familiar blanket & pillow
• Play your affirmations or music
• Essential oils
• Turn off most lights
• Bring your birthing ball
• Use an eye mask
• Consider fairy lights!
• No need to wear a hospital gown
  
  

Homebirth...

• Have your birth plan available
• Play your affirmations or music
• Essential oils
• Turn off most lights
• Keep the space warm, dark & quiet
• Set up a comfy 'midwives station' in another room so they can pop in and out
  
  

Birth in theatre...

• Discuss how your birth plan can be met
• Consider IV in non-dominant arm
• Gown and leads placed for skin-to-skin
• Play your own music
• Birth partner to wear your essential oils
• Skin-to-skin with baby asap
• Use familiar blanket in recovery