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
Denne historien er fra April/May 2021-utgaven av Your Pregnancy.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent ? Logg på
Denne historien er fra April/May 2021-utgaven av Your Pregnancy.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent? Logg på
COVID & your child
Symptoms, treatment, vaccines and a rare condition called MIS-C is on our minds when it comes to The Virus these days.
EYES WIDE OPEN!
Breastfeeding and night wakings? Experts shine a light on a possible connection.
RAISING A BRAT? TIME FOR A RESET!
It happens, even with the best of intentions. Sometimes we go overboard trying to show our love – and then things backfire.
Prioritise REST!
The fatigue of pregnancy serves to remind you exactly what miracle your body is performing, so it’s essential to listen to it. Here’s what you can do to get through these low times.
CRYING CLUES
Discover the meaning behind your baby’s cries.
Pushing isn't all you need to do!
There are four main factors that affect the length and intensity of labour. They are known as the four P’s and work together to make each woman’s labour unique.
We're all NERVOUS about it!
Sure, it can seem scarier than labour, but with these simple tips to bathing your newborn, you’ll soon be a pro.
FOUR-FOOTED FAMILY MEMBERS
Your children and your pets – everything you’ll need to know to be a happy family.
Here's to HAPPIER beach days!
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
TALK SO YOU'RE HEARD!
Feel like your child just doesn’t listen to you? There are some techniques you can use to improve your chances of getting through.
