What matters most to us
- Avoid unnecessary interventions
- Don't offer pain relief unless I ask
- Immediate skin-to-skin contact
- Freedom to move during labour
- Delayed cord clamping
We are hoping for a water birth if circumstances allow. These are our preferences across different scenarios. We trust our care team to guide us if plans need to change.
Our preferences
By stage of labour, so the room can find the right section fast.
01
Early Labour
- Freedom to move around
- Birth ball available
- Intermittent monitoring
- Dim lighting
- Music: Calm playlist
- Calm, quiet environment
- Don't offer pain relief unless I ask
02
Active Labour
- Continue natural methods
- Hot/cold packs
- Epidural okay if I request it
- Continue intermittent monitoring
- Partner present
- Explain exams before performing
03
Delivery
- Upright, Squatting positions preferred
- Body-led pushing
- Water birth if available
- Delayed cord clamping
- Partner to cut cord
- Touch baby's head during crowning
- Avoid assisted delivery (forceps or vacuum) if possible
04
If C-Section
- Partner only present in theatre
- Lower drape to see birth
- Immediate skin-to-skin
- Partner stays with baby if separated
05
After Birth
- Skin-to-skin for first hour
- Delay weighing/measuring for bonding
- Breastfeeding support
- Vitamin K injection: yes
- Hepatitis B vaccination: yes
- Explain all procedures before performing
Printable PDFs
Print them or keep a copy on your phone, no internet needed on the day.