It is common to feel a bit anxious in the lead up to giving birth but there are things you can do that can help. It can be beneficial to talk through any worries that you may have with your doctor at your chosen antenatal clinic. Here are the 5 best ways a maternity care clinic can help prepare you for delivery.
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Providing You With Peace Of Mind
It is important to remember that every woman is different and no two births are the same. That is why it can be helpful to understand what your different options are in regards to labour and birth. Including discovering the pros and cons of each, as this can make you feel more confident in making the decision of how you want to deliver your baby.
During this time you are able to talk to your doctor or midwife about any concerns that you may have and they will answer any of your budding questions. During your antenatal care, your healthcare professional will explain what can be done for safe labour and delivery. Your doctor will also be able to refer you to other maternity services such as antenatal classes.
Having a tour around your chosen health service can also help you to decide where you would like to give birth. If you are experiencing a low-risk pregnancy it provides more options in regards to your birth plan.
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Support With Your Mental Health
Listening to difficult labour and birthing stories can be extremely unhelpful, especially if you are already feeling nervous about pregnancy. It is important to remember that for every bad experience, there is also a mother with a positive birth experience to share.
Staying positive can be difficult, especially if you’ve personally experienced any adverse events. Your health care professional can support you through any worries or mental health concerns that you may have leading up to labour.
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Exercise Recommendations
Labour requires both strength and stamina, and exercising during pregnancy is a great way to help prepare your body for it. Exercise is also a great way to improve your mood and de-stress in the lead up to labour and birth.
For example, pregnancy yoga can assist with getting your baby in a good position for birth, teach you helpful positions for labour and provide you with relaxation and breathing techniques. Your doctor should be able to recommend exercise classes specifically for pregnant women. If you have limited time or budget restraints, going for a daily walk can also be beneficial.
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Relaxation Techniques
Breathing techniques can assist with calming your nerves before, during and after labour as well as easing the pain. You can practice these techniques during your pregnancy to ensure you are comfortable using them during labour. Even if your labour doesn’t go as planned and you require medical intervention, you may still be able to use the techniques you’ve learnt. There are many complementary therapies available, such as acupuncture, that your doctor will be able to recommend during your pregnancy care.
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Preparing A Birth Plan
Preparing a birth plan can be a useful tool to communicate your wishes, concerns and choices effectively. When you shift into active labour you may not be able to take part in a discussion with your healthcare professionals if there is a change in circumstances. It is important to remember that labour doesn’t always go to plan and you may have to be flexible.
These are just a few of the things to expect when consulting a healthcare professional, such as Dr Kelvin Larwood. There are plenty of ways that a maternity care clinic can help prepare you for labour and delivery. From providing you with peace of mind to exercise recommendations and assisting with your birth plan. For more information regarding the best way to prepare for your delivery, contact our friendly team who are happy to assist.