What is the midwifery-led continuity model? While the ‘place’ of midwives in childbirth might be hotly debated by some, one thing is for certain – midwives are an integral part of labour and birth for most women in many countries of the world. In Australia, if you choose a hospital birth, your labour will
The most common surgical procedure in the world today – one that every human alive today has undergone – is the clamping and cutting of the umbilical cord at birth. The need for clamping and cutting the cord is not in dispute but how soon after birth this should occur is now being questioned.
My alarm is sounding, but I am already awake, I jump up and my heart is pounding as I will be a student midwife. The day is here, my first day of placement, in a real hospital, on a real maternity ward – I have been anticipating this day, not just since being at
People get very concerned about the use of aromatherapy and essential oils during pregnancy. Some, including some aromatherapists, even advise not to use any essential oils at all. I personally think that is a bit extreme. Also, a great pity, as many essential oils can be quite useful in helping the prospective mum through
In this article Yvette examines whether or not Herbal Preparations Increase Breastmilk Supply. The health advantages of breastfeeding for both mothers and infants are clinically proven. For babies, breastfeeding reduces the risk of obesity and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). In addition, breastfeeding increases IQ, brain development and immunity to childhood illnesses. For mothers,
By Hannah Dahlen In pregnancy a woman's body needs extra vitamins, minerals and nutrients to help her baby grow. In addition, the presence of some nutrients in good supply has been shown to reduce the risk of certain conditions in pregnancy. Having a healthy diet is the best way of ensuring you are
There is no doubt that breastfeeding is the natural way to nourish your baby. However, the early days are a learning period for both mother and baby. Preparing for breastfeeding while you are pregnant and seeking support once your baby is born can help to establish breastfeeding far more smoothly. Banish the Old Wives’
The use of water in labour is a centuries-old practice for the human race. However today, many people are either unaware or sceptical of whether birth pools are beneficial in labour. The concept of using water in labour is a fairly simple one. If you are a bath person you will understand. This is
Book Review Author Jan Roberts In our health-conscious society, a fairly common question asked by couples trying to conceive is what they can do, health-wise, to maximise their chances. Beyond that there are also the questions about how best to ensure the health of their unborn baby. Healthy Parents, Healthy Baby: A Guide to
A different way of pain management. Most women you encounter who have given birth vaginally will tell you… it hurts! However the way in which women describe labour pain varies. Some experience it as something akin to severe muscle pain like you might get if you over-exercised, for others it’s like really bad period
