Labour and Birth

Water during labour and birth
The use of water has become increasingly popular as a way of avoiding a high tech birth both in hospital and at home

Vaginal Birth After Caesarean (VBAC)
The incidence of caesarean births is on the rise. In the past caesareans were not common, but now in Australia almost 1:3 women will give birth by caesarean.

Pethidine for Pain Relief in Labour
Pethidine is a widely used drug for pain relief in labour. Pethidine is a similar drug to morphine and heroin.

Pain in labour: Your hormones are your helpers
All mammals seek a safe place to give birth. This “nesting” instinct may be due to an increase in levels of prolactin, which is sometimes referred to as the nesting hormone.

Nitrous Oxide for Pain Relief in Labour
Nitrous Oxide (N20) is otherwise known as laughing gas.

Lotus Birth
Lotus birth is the practice of leaving the umbilical cord uncut, so that the baby remains attached to his/her placenta until the cord naturally separates at the umbilicus

Leaving Well Alone: A Natural Approach to the Third Stage of Labour
The medical approach to pregnancy and birth has become so ingrained in our culture, that we have forgotten the way of birth of our ancestors.

Labour
Informing yourself of your many options is really helpful. You can do this by reading, attending prenatal classes or speaking to others. One of the main things that research has found helpful is the presence of continuous support person

Homebirth
Article - While homebirth is not every ones choice, it certainly is a responsible and safe choice.

Homebirth: Home Is Where The Heart Is
Article - Homebirth. The word arouses strong reactions even in alternative circles, and amongst those who avoid the medical system in other parts of their lives.

Epidural Anaesthetic
An epidural anaesthetic is a procedure that is performed by a specialist doctor known as an anaesthetist

Breech Babies: Breech Birth
Article by Jane Palmer Though most breech babies will turn naturally before their due date, some remain in the breech position. It is then that the woman and her partner will be faced with choices on what to do regarding trying to turn the baby and what is the best way to give birth.

Birth Plans
Birth Plans originated to assist women to inform their midwife or doctor of their wishes during labour, particularly if they wanted to avoid routine interventions