Your Best Birth Starts Now

The 24-step guide to giving you and Baby the best start ever as mother and child.

- Tracey Hawthorne

Ignore the horror stories. Birth is safer today than it’s ever been, and the risks to both Mother and Baby are small. But a successful birth isn’t just about delivering a physically healthy baby – it’s about having the best possible experience you can. Follow our 24-point guide to give your baby a great start – and yourself memories to cherish.

1 GO FOR ALL THE CHECK-UPS

Even if you’re feeling well, regular check-ups will identify and reduce risks to you and your baby. “A normal, uncomplicated pregnancy should be seen for eight to 10 visits,” says Johannesburg gynaecologist Dr Kiran Kalian.

2 ASK & DISCUSS

At your first visit with your medical practitioner or midwife, discuss your birth plan based on your risks, including birthing options and pain relief. Reassess (and either adapt or confirm) your plan at 36 to 38 weeks, Dr Kalian says.

3 START MULLING IT OVER

Think about your birth plan – especially if you’ll want a doula. A doula does not deliver the baby but offers support during pregnancy and labour. A doula stays with you during all the stages of labour, and afterwards for as long as you need her. “Research has shown that doulas are good for supporting Dad too, as it’s really hard to be a loving husband and a labour coach at the same time,” says Irene Bourquin, nurse, midwife and author of The Very Practical Pregnancy Handbook. If you can’t afford a doula, just having a good support system who will be there with you on the day will help. Ask your partner to be by your side, and if they can’t, a family member can be a good alternative.

4 GO TO CLASS