As a midwife and childbirth educator, one of the most common concerns I hear from expectant mums is the fear of tearing during birth. The perineum is an incredible part of that body that can stretch and heal incredibly well. There are a number of ways to reduce the likelihood and severity of tearing and support your body. By incorporating hypnobirthing principles, pelvic floor awareness, and specific birth techniques, you can help prepare your body for a smoother birth experience. Here’s what you need to know.

The Benefits of Hypnobirthing for Both Parents and Babies: Evidence-Based Insights from a Midwife and Childbirth Educator

As a midwife and childbirth educator, I’ve seen firsthand how hypnobirthing can influence the birth experience. I’ve not only seen it and taught it, but I’ve used it myself - for my own 2 births.

Hypnobirthing isn’t just a technique; it’s a comprehensive approach that empowers both parents, creating a calm and positive environment to facilitate a smoother labour.

Research now supports the practice of waiting before clamping the cord, a technique known as delayed cord clamping

A major concern for many women during pregnancy is ‘How will I handle the pain of contractions?‘ .

This small, portable device provides a drug-free way to reduce pain during labor and is praised for its ease of use, effectiveness, and versatility. Let’s explore the benefits of using a TENS machine during labor.

What is Hypnobirthing?

A weird name for a fantastic birth course!

Birth is a transformative experience, and for many expectant parents, the journey toward it can be filled with a mix of excitement, fear, and uncertainty.

As a midwife of over 10 years, working in all areas of maternity I have seen it all. Women birthing beautifully, calmly and well supported and women who had no idea what was happening, why, having significant amounts of pain, intervention and less than ideal circumstances. Women – and their partners – who were scared, unsure, terrified even.

Let’s look into the ideal timing for beginning your hypnobirthing journey.

Where to have your baby and who with?

This is a choice for some women and less of a choice for others, depending on location, private health cover and affordability.

In Australia we have 3 main types of care – most people only know about the first 2.

How to set up your hospital room and use different birth positions.

6 Ways your birth partner can suppport you through labour. Tools learned in The Positive Birth Program.

Tools to use during labour and birth.

Ways to lower your risk of Postpartum Depression

How to Prepare for Breastfeeding