From Fear to Empowerment: My Journey to Choosing a Midwife-Assisted Home Birth in Derbyshire | Derbyshire Newborn Photographer

Are you curious about the ins and outs of homebirth? Want to know what it's really like to have a baby at home in Derbyshire with the guidance of a skilled and experienced midwife?

“I liked the idea of a home birth, especially after hypnobirthing with my first pregnancy. Though I opted for a hospital birth, I had the water birth I wanted. With my second, I considered it more, but complications during pregnancy made me hesitant. I wish I knew more before. If I did, I might've had a home birth with my first and hired a private midwife.”

In this exclusive interview, I sit down with Derbyshire homebirth midwife Sally at Blossom Birth to learn everything from creating a birth plan to handling emergencies and preserving precious memories through Newborn Photography.

So grab a cup of tea and get ready to be wowed by the empowering and transformative world of homebirth!

1. How long have you been a midwife and what got you into midwifery?

“I qualified as a midwife over 13 years ago. My journey to becoming a midwife was long, in 1996, I got accepted to study in London, but being a mum of two with a surprise baby on the way, I was unable to start. I applied again in Sheffield in 1999, with no luck, I was advised to apply for nursing. Finally, after several attempts, and pursuing a different career and completing qualifications in Pharmacy Services, I applied in 2006, interviewed in 2007 and started March 2008. It was a long process, but I made it as a mature student! It was my own experiences with pregnancy loss and poor care that ultimately led me to training to be a midwife. I wanted to offer kind, compassionate care to others experiencing this and early pregnancy care and fertility are areas I remain passionate about.”

"Sometimes, a woman chooses a home birth but her partner isn't onboard…”

2. What would you say to someone with a concern or fear about giving birth at home?

"Sometimes, a woman chooses a home birth but her partner isn't onboard and sometimes both need more information to enable them to choose the right place of birth for them.  In all cases I start with evidence, sharing research findings. One significant study, (Birth Place Study, 2011) found that birth at home for low risk women who are having their second baby is safer than birth in hopsital. Later research following on from this study found low risk women having their first baby are also safer at home. Why? Because labour and birth in a hospital setting can increase your chances of interventions which can in turn lead to complications.

I discuss how we are skilled in managing emergencies in the home setting and reassure them that we are trained to the same standards as midwives working in a hospital setting. Evidence tells us the best outcomes come from continuity of care, where we build a relationship with our clients. Some women dismiss birth at home as they know there is risk of needing to transfer to hospital in labour, nationally the chance is approximately 45% if this is your first baby, I work for Private Midwives LTD and our overall transfer rate for all women regardless which number baby is 20%.

Our approach is rooted in relationship-based care. We pride ourselves on knowing our clients personally, ensuring a deeper level of trust and understanding throughout the birthing process. Our appointments are longer and take place in the clients home enabling lots of discussion and information sharing and really understanding clients birth preferences. It is crucial to feel confident and supported in your birthing choices. By understanding the benefits and risks associated with home births, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your values and preferences."

“…reporting health care professionals have done too much too soon (acted too quickly) or too little too late (not acted soon enough).”

3. How do you help families prepare for the possibility of transfer to a hospital during a homebirth?

"In our 'Planning Your Home Birth' booklet, which is completed antenatally (34 – 36 weeks) there is space for the clients wishes and for midwives to add information and details. Practicalities of the environment where you choose to labour/place the birth pool. We consider other children, pets, equipment that you need to collate and equipment we will bring. We discuss reasons when non-urgent/ or urgent transfers will be required. If a transfer is necessary, we'll be there every step of the way, providing support at the hospital. Logistics of the property, when to call us, are also discussed and documented. Between 34 and 36 weeks, we offer a full blood count to check your iron levels, low iron levels won't derail your home birth plans but if you aware prior to 37 weeks’ gestation you can commence supplements or consider iron rich foods in your diet.

It is evident from multiple investigation reports into maternity outcomes that women are reporting health care professionals have done too much too soon (acted too quickly) or too little too late (not acted soon enough). This could mean unnecessary interventions for someone who prefers a physiological approach, or dismissing concerns from a mother who senses that something isn't right. Listening to women is crucial and supporting them, completing a full assessment even if their concerns cannot be explained.

Here are some instances where we might need to transfer from home to hospital:

1. Meconium-stained liquor (baby has opened it’s bowels before birth)

2. Breech birth: If the baby is coming bottom first instead of head first.

3. Shoulder Dystocia: (for anyone that doesn’t know what this is, like me) it’s when the head is born but the baby’s shoulder is wedged on the pubic bone.

4. Concerns with a client’s observations/or baby’s heart rate OR clients becoming unwell.

5. Client requesting to transfer for additional pain relief/ or because labour is prolonged.

6. Client changing their mind about place of birth.

7. Post-partum haemorrhage (PPH)

8. Retained placenta

9. Baby requiring resuscitation.

4. What are some common misconceptions about home birth that you would like to address?

It’s safer to be in hospital

It's a common belief that hospitals are safer for childbirth, but the reality is quite different. Your own home can be the safer place to labour, you're more likely to feel comfortable and relaxed and therefore labour and birth is more likely to be straightforward. At home, you have the freedom to move around, eat, and drink as you please, which can help your body produce natural endorphins, especially oxytocin and reduce stress hormones (adrenaline). Plus, you'll be in familiar surroundings, and you and any birth partners can move freely around your home, you will have privacy and all home comforts.

You will have a midwife of your own from the minute you walk in to hospital

There is a possibility you will receive care from multiple midwives in a hospital setting, and it is highly unlikely you will have met them before that day. When you choose a private midwife for a home birth, you'll receive personalised care from the moment they arrive. They are not new to you, you have met them often months if not weeks before. They'll know you well, and all their care is provided in the comfort of your own home, starting your birthing journey in a familiar and supportive environment.

It's often believed that first-time mothers are unlikely to have a home birth

With the NHS, there's a 55% chance of a first-time mother birthing at home, compared to an 80% chance with Private Midwives.

Make it stand out

I remember a midwife who humorously insisted, "No home births in bungalows for me! We need stairs." She used to say, "Stairs and toast and jam!"

5. How do you ensure continuity of care for families during the postpartum period?

At private midwives, we ensure continuity of care by providing case loading care. Each family is assigned one named midwife, with a backup in case of illness or scheduling conflicts. While we can't guarantee that you'll always see the same midwife, in 99% of cases, you will. Additionally, you'll have met at least one backup midwife during your antenatal period, ensuring seamless care throughout the antenatal, birth, and postnatal periods.

6. Can you talk about any specific training or qualifications you have that make you well-suited to assist with home births?

Biomechanics for birth course

Biomechanics is the study of biology and the mechanisms of movement. In childbirth, biomechanics and positional changes can help babies to rotate and turn to navigate the pelvis.

Hypnobirthing/Mindful birthing

I'm trained in hypnobirthing and mindful birthing techniques to support clients with labour and birth and ensure they are fully informed of all choices/options.

Acupuncture

I'm also trained in acupuncture, including acupuncture for labour (but I haven’t been asked to use acupuncture during labour). It can be effective for issues like pelvic girdle pain, relaxation and optimising the baby’s position for birth.

Acupressure

Applying firm pressure with fingertips on specific points during labour can be effective to soothe discomfort, also can be helpful alongside other factors if contractions are spacing out.

7. Can you share any experiences you've had with water birth and how it can benefit the mother and baby during labor and delivery?

The majority of clients I meet have chosen to labour and birth in water for the reasons below. There's substantial evidence indicating that labouring in a birthing pool can have numerous benefits:

• It has been shown to shorten both the first and second stages of labour.

• reduce the risk of perineal trauma

• increase the chance of a positive birthing experience

• The freedom of movement provided by the water can aid in optimal positioning of the baby and comfort of the mother

• Babies born in water typically experience a smoother transition during their birth

• Labouring in water is associated with a decreased likelihood of needing an epidural.

• Babies born in water are less likely to require admission to the neonatal unit.

• Water birth is linked to higher rates of successful breastfeeding and increased likelihood of skin-to-skin contact.

• Women often feel more private labouring in water.

Even the presence of a birth pool in the room, regardless of whether it's utilised, can have calming effects, lowering both maternal and caregiver blood pressure. There's even fascinating research showing simply looking at water can positively influence physiological responses, such as reducing blood pressure, heart rate, and respiration rate, signalling to the brain that all is well with the world. How incredible is that!!

Conclusion

I hope you enjoyed learning about the world of home birth and the possibilities it holds. It's a unique and empowering experience that can be a reality with the right support. Don't be afraid to dream big, and trust your gut when making decisions about your birth. And remember, with a home birth, you'll have a midwife who's not only knowledgeable but also fun, making your birth experience safe and memorable.

Derbyshire Home Birth - Resources

Private Midwives - https://privatemidwives.com

Sally Goodwin (Midwife being interviewed) - https://www.blossombirth.co.uk

Birth Place Study - https://www.bmj.com/content/343/bmj.d7400

Water Birth Benefits - https://books.google.co.uk/books/about/Revisiting_Waterbirth

Water birth Information - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35790327/

5 Simple Steps to Prepare Your Home for Your Newborn's Arrival | Part 2 | Derbyshire Newborn Photographer

4. Put together a baby care basket

A baby care basket, or sometimes called a “downstairs” basket is a lifesaver those first few weeks home with a new baby. 

Oftentimes, you’re in one space with the baby for most of the day and find yourself “trapped” under a sleeping baby without the supplies you need!

A baby care basket can solve that for you. Basically, it’s a container you can keep in each room of the house that has all the essentials for baby so you’re not running around from room to room getting the things you need. 

Usually, the baby care basket includes diapers, wipes, muslins, extra clothes, pacifiers, and anything else you might need for the baby frequently.

I also like to think about including things for mom like nipple cream, breast pads, chapstick, etc. 

In addition to keeping you from running from room to room, a baby care basket will help you stay organized and keep your home clutter free.

We used to have, not only a basket downstairs but also a seperate moses basket and changing mat. The moses basket was in our kitchen with our second child, Margot, as this is where we spent most of our time and she would sleep there in the day if she wasn’t in the sling on me. Under her moses basket was my ‘care basket’ full of essentials including most of the above and more. Muslins, nappy’s, bottom cream, nappy sacks, nipple cream and spare dummy’s. It saves you having to go up and down the stairs 20 times a day to get what you need. We also had our snuggle bath downstairs and until they were about 6 moths old we found this was the best place for their bath! I will link below to some of the products I used.

Neutrum Bear do some gorgeous baskets and changing mats. See here.

5. Light your home the right way

Maybe this is important to me because I’m a photographer, I don’t know 😉 but lighting is one I don’t see talked about too often!! 

Proper lighting can help create a calm and comfortable atmosphere for both you and your baby.

First, look at the rooms you’ll spend the most time in (typically kitchen, living room, bedrooms). You'll want to consider the type of lighting you have in each room.

• Do you want to add a lamp option (yes, even in the kitchen)?

• Under cabinet lights?

• How about a dimmer switch for the overhead lights?

• What about small wall plug in lights to help light the way in the halls for the middle of the night?

The right lighting can help frustrating or overly stimulating situations feel much more calm and peaceful. 

I personally have a pet hate for spot lights anywhere but in the kitchen and even then they have to be on a dimmer. We hve low hanging lights over our island in the middle of the kitchen with warm filament bulbs in. These are the most used lights in our kitchen for the ambience they provide. My husband gets so cross that he can’t see things properly in our lounge/dining area because we have minimal low and warm lights and lamps dotted around which create such a lovely atmosphere.

Finally, safety is also a consideration when it comes to lighting. Make sure that all cords and outlets are safely tucked away and secured to prevent tripping or electrical hazards.

6. Prepare YOUR wardrobe

Of course we’re thinking a lot about how to prepare for the baby, but don’t forget about yourself! I don’t know about you but when I feel good about myself it makes such a huge difference to my attitude and outlook on everything. I love having days slogging in my lounge wear if I know I don’t need to leave the house. I would quite happily live in tracksuits if I could, however, when I make a little effort in the morning and put a little make up on I feel so much better all day! It really can make such a huge difference to how you feel.

Preparing your wardrobe for the first 2-3 weeks postpartum is an important step in getting ready for the arrival of your new baby.

After welcoming my first baby, Alfie, comfort became my top priority. Born during a scorching August heat wave, I found solace in loose-fitting t-shirts and short leggings, opting for anything that would keep me cool and comfortable. To complete the ensemble, I invested in a pair of Birkenstocks, adding both comfort and ease to my new mom wardrobe.

Comfort and functionality are key during this time also! You'll want to focus on loose-fitting, comfortable clothing that can accommodate changes in your body shape and allow for easy breastfeeding access if you plan to breastfeed.


Reflecting on my experience, I realize the importance of investing in breastfeeding-friendly clothing. Despite breastfeeding both of my children for over a year, I owned very few dedicated nursing friendly garments. Instead, I often resorted to pulling down a strap or lifting up a t-shirt, which wasn't always convenient, especially in public. Nowadays, there's a wide range of stylish designs specifically tailored for nursing mothers. I highly recommend exploring these options if you plan to breastfeed.

Consider investing in a few nursing bras, loose-fitting pants or leggings, and comfortable tops that are easy to pull up or down. Some women also find it helpful to have a couple of nursing-friendly dresses on hand for a dressier option. I also loved having nursing bra’s for ease and definitely for comfort!

Another thing to keep in mind is that you will likely still be bleeding for a few weeks, so having a few pairs of comfortable (high waisted) and absorbent underwear or postpartum pads on hand is a good idea.

Remember, the key to preparing your wardrobe for the first few weeks postpartum is to prioritize comfort and practicality. By doing so, you can focus on bonding with your new baby without worrying about your clothing or physical discomfort!

I trust that exploring '5 easy steps to get your home ready for your baby's arrival' has provided you with valuable insights! If you're in need of a Derbyshire Newborn Photographer, feel free to browse through my portfolio of Newborn images by clicking here.

Your Investment

5 Simple Steps to Prepare Your Home for Your Newborn's Arrival | Part 1 | Derbyshire Newborn Photographer

Are you expecting a new baby in the next few weeks? I totally get it, the anticipation can be exciting and overwhelming allat the same time. But don't worry, I've got your back! I've rounded up my top

5 tips for getting your home ready for your new arrival in just two weeks.

As a mom who's been through the newborn phase two times, I've gathered some unique ideas and tips that you might not have thought of before!

1. Declutter your home

Decluttering your home can sound like a daunting task, especially when you're expecting a newborn! But it's easier than you think to get your home ready for your newest addition. Honestly decluttering has always been overwhelming for me and especially when you’re pregnant, but I feel SO much better when I declutter. It is always worth the effort for me, it makes me feel cleansed!

Here are some steps to follow to declutter before baby arrives:

Step 1: Choose two or three rooms that you frequent most often (most likely this will be your living room, kitchen and bedroom).

Step 2: Start by noticing where things tend to pile up. For me, that’s always been the kitchen. Find a new place for these items to go so they stop piling up!

Step 3: Let’s “Marie Kondo” your stuff! Let’s clear out what you don’t need or want anymore. Go through each drawer, cabinet and shelf and ask yourself, “Do I still need/want this item?” 



Step 4: Make 3 piles, “Keep, Donate, Toss” and put everything into 1 of those piles.

Step 5: Organize the “keep” items, throw away the “toss” items (or recycle if possible) and give away the “donate.”

Turn on some music and make it fun! Ask a friend to come over and help. What are some ways you get motivated to declutter? I have a friend who is so good at decluttering, she is brutal and swears by Marie Kondo. I asked her to help me and she came and spent a morning (I’m a morning person if I want to get anything done) de-cluttering and re-organising my kitchen! Having a friend with me made the task far less daunting and way more fun. I can’t tell you how much better I felt after, it was like a cleanse!

By following these simple steps over the course of just a few days or a weekend, you can quickly create a stress-free and comfortable newborn-ready environment in your own home.

2. Batch cook

The thought of cooking a ton of food in one go can be intimidating, but batch cooking is a lifesaver, especially when you're getting ready to welcome your newborn into the world. You'll thank yourself later! 

Here are a few simple steps to follow to get started:

Step 1: Plan out your meals. Choose recipes that are easy to make in large quantities, and make a list of all the ingredients you will need.
 I would recommend hearty meals like cottage pie, stew or spag bol. Easy ones to make a huge batch and freeze. My top tip: Try adding suede to your mash potato for some extra veg and nutrition!

Step 2: Go grocery shopping. Try to do this a few days before you plan to start cooking, so you have everything you need on hand.

Step 3: Set aside a block of time to cook. Depending on how much you want to make, you may need several hours or even a full day to get everything done. Consider getting the help of a friend or family member to make it more fun!

Step 4: Cook in batches. Prepare one recipe at a time, and portion it out into individual servings. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and be sure to label everything with the name of the dish and the date it was made.

Step 5: Freeze your meals. Once everything is cooked and portioned out, place the containers in the freezer. They will keep for several months, so you can have a variety of meals ready to go whenever you need them.

By following these steps, you can create a stockpile of nutritious, homemade meals that will make the first few weeks with your newborn a little bit easier!

I really recommend having a look at Lucinder Miller’s recipes on nature Doc’s website here for some really nutritious and health recipes.

I would also recommend following @wildnutritionist on instagram if you don’e already. She aims at mums and weaning but also talks about pregnancy and general nutrition.

3. Stock up on essentials (& not just baby essentials)

You’re likely already thinking about things like diapers, wipes, bottles, etc. 

But have you considered stocking up on regular household items like paper towels, toilet paper, dishwasher soap…? 



My best tip would be to set these items up on Amazon Subscribe and Save so they’ll show up on your doorstep and you never have to worry about running out those first few months with your newborn!

I tend to batch buy nappies and wipes from Aldi as I have found those the best by far, they even go up to a size 8 which is fab for my 5 year old who is still needing nappies at night time!

I have recently started ordering my bulk cupboard items from ocado as we are all on a new health kick in our household and ocado is fab for organic food and things that are harder to find in your local supermarket.

Continue reading…

The Value of Newborn Photography: Why It's Worth Every Penny

Are you interested in newborn photography, but you're worried about the cost?
I get it; newborn photography can be expensive, and it's important to understand why.

Let's talk about it!

When my first child was born, Alfie, I eagerly sought out a newborn photographer friend to capture those precious early moments. I wanted to experience being on the other side of the lens, to have those fleeting moments frozen in time for posterity. Having professionally taken photographs allowed me to step away from my usual role behind the camera and simply immerse myself in the joy of those early days with my newborn. The experience of having photographs taken of me, my husband, and our little one was truly priceless, creating cherished memories that adorn our walls to this day. However, when my second child arrived three years later, I found myself unable to find a photographer whose style resonated with me. Determined to capture the essence of our family life, I attempted to recreate the desired aesthetic in a makeshift home setup, yearning for the natural, lifestyle look that reflected our everyday moments. This ultimately inspired me to find my own studio, a space bathed in natural light and brimming with character, perfectly suited to the images I longed to create. While I didn't have the opportunity to benefit from this space with my own children, it remains my greatest regret that I didn't prioritize finding a photographer to capture those precious early moments as a family.

Newborn photography requires a specialized skill set and experience.

Newborn photography is an art form that demands a unique set of skills and expertise. As a newborn photographer, I bring not only my passion for photography but also a deep understanding of light. My extensive training has equipped me with the knowledge to harness natural light to its fullest potential, creating beautifully lit images.

During newborn sessions, which typically span two to three hours, my priority is to ensure a relaxed and stress-free environment for both parents and baby. This extended timeframe allows ample opportunity for feeding breaks and moments of tranquility, which I cherish capturing in their purest form. I believe in having a comfortable atmosphere where families can unwind and connect, resulting in authentic and heartfelt photographs that will be treasured for years to come.

Newborn photography takes a lot of time.

Newborn photography is a meticulous process that extends far beyond the time spent in the studio capturing images. From preparing the setup to editing and refining the final photos, every step is undertaken with care and precision. As your newborn photographer, I dedicate myself to crafting the perfect images and experience for you and your family.

After the session concludes, I devote several hours to editing and processing the photos, striving to meet both my high standards and your expectations. As a perfectionist, I believe that every detail matters. I want you to have nothing less than the perfect images to cherish for a lifetime.

The cost of newborn photography includes more than just the time spent taking the photos and editing the photos.

It also covers the cost of professional-grade camera equipment, including cameras, lenses, and editing software. Additionally, as a newborn photographer, I invest in ongoing training and education to improve my skills and stay up-to-date with the latest techniques and trends.

I also take pride in offering a curated client closet, featuring an array of stylish outfits and accessories for mum, baby, and even a few items for dad. This ever-expanding collection is carefully curated to ensure that every client has access to a range of options that complement their unique style and vision. From timeless classics to on-trend pieces, my client closet is designed to enhance the overall experience and ensure that every session is truly memorable.

How much is newborn photography in Derbyshire?

The cost of a newborn photographer can vary depending on experience and the services and products offered. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from £200 to £2000 for a newborn photography package that includes digital files with a print release (which means the ability to print an unlimited number of images at the lab of your choice).

Having a baby is a life-changing experience that you'll never forget, and having professional photos to look back on can help you remember all the emotions, details, and love that surrounded you during that special time.

These photos are not just for you; they're a gift to your child. They'll show them how loved and welcomed they were from the very beginning, and these images will be cherished by you, your child, and your family for generations to come.

I want to make sure that everyone who wants to capture their newborn baby through photography has the opportunity to do so. That's why I offer payment plans to make the investment more manageable. Additionally, I'm open to bartering services occasionally, so it never hurts to ask about these options. I'm committed to making sure that you can have access to the beautiful, timeless images that you deserve!

Newborn photography may seem expensive, but it's an investment in preserving memories, celebrating life, and honoring the birthing process.

So, if you're considering newborn photography, know that it's worth every penny and more!

Don’t just take my word for it ;) Here is what some of my clients had to say about their investment:

“wonderful experience”

“We had both our Maternity and newborn shoot with Georgina and both were absolutely wonderful experience resulting in the most stunning photos I’ve ever seen.
We were both nervous going into the maternity shoot but she made us feel very at ease in her beautiful natural light studio. When our son was born and we headed back for the newborn shoot we instantly felt comfortable and in no rush as we fed baby and got ready.
The photos are an investment that we will treasure forever and I’ve already booked in for the next photos. I can see us working with Georgina for years to come, I cannot recommend her and her photography enough.”

- Holly Mee, Nottingham

“I immediately fell in love with her unique style of photography”

“I can't express enough how pleased we are with our studio experience and the amazing photo results. I first saw Georgina's work on Instagram when friends of ours used her for their maternity / newborn sessions. I immediately fell in love with her unique style of photography. Prior to ourbsession, we communicated frequently and Georgina was very helpful at addressing my worries. She provided advice on outfits and styling and even gave recommendations for local makeup artists. The session itself was VERY relaxed and made allowances for recent medical issues that I'd been experiencing. Georgina's wardrobe and prop choice photography sessions is exceptional and I was so pelased that I didn't have to go and purchase loads of new clothes! I couldn't be happier with our maternity photos and can't wait to return next week for our newborn session. I would strongly recommend Georgina to anyone.”

- Emily-Jayne Doughty, Leicestershire

“you will be blown away”

“The shoot itself was amazing! Georgina took us through the wardrobe choices that would best suit the shoot (outfits are stunning), then started getting us into some relaxed poses with good humour! She was absolutely amazing with our baby and was able to calm her faster than we can!

I was extremely impressed with both the showreel and gallery, its very professional and brought out lots of emotions! We ended up buying the full set (we loved literally all 129 photos!) The editing is fantastic, beautiful color balancing, no sign of baby acne, everything just stunning!

For the experience, the price is very well justified!

I would 100% recommend anyone looking for a newborn photoshoot to go to Georgina, you will be blown away. We will definitely be returning when we have our next child!

Thank you Georgina!!!”

- Jason Taylor, Derbyshire

Click here to see more of my newborn photography in Derbyshire

10 things you were never told about giving birth | Derbyshire Newborn Photography

Hey there mama-to-be! So, you might be feeling a little overwhelmed with all the information (or lack thereof) about giving birth. But don't worry, I’ve got you!

Here are 10 things your doctor or midwife probably didn't tell you about giving birth that will help you feel more prepared and in control.

(And hey, if these pique your interest, bring these up to your midwife at the next appointment!) 

You don't have to give birth in the hospital.

Giving birth at home or in a birth center can provide a more relaxed and intimate setting for the birth of your baby. It allows you to have more control over the birthing process and can provide a more personalized experience. This option is safe for low-risk pregnancies and has similar or better outcomes compared to hospital births.

Question for your midwife: Would he/she support you and work with a home birth midwife if you decided to go this route?

Epidurals are not the only form of pain relief available during labor.

Epidurals are a common form of pain relief during labor, but they are not the only option available. Other forms of pain relief include nitrous oxide, spinal blocks, and natural methods such as hypnobirthing, acupuncture and massage. These options can provide a more natural and less invasive form of pain relief.

“During my first pregnancy, I sought an alternative to traditional pain relief and discovered the wonders of hypnobirthing. Enrolling in a course with my husband, we gained not only techniques but a profound understanding of childbirth and the mind's role in the process.

As my due date approached, the hypnobirthing tools became invaluable. During labor, I felt surprisingly calm and in control, managing contractions with ease. Opting for water births, the serene environment, dim lights, and soothing music enhanced the experience.

Hypnobirthing empowered me with knowledge, allowing me to make informed decisions and trust my instincts. It provided the confidence to communicate preferences with the healthcare team and actively participate in the birthing process.

In the end, I had two beautiful and empowering birthing experiences, thanks to hypnobirthing. It reinforced the belief that there are various paths to a positive birthing experience, and it's crucial to explore options aligned with personal values and desires. My journey with hypnobirthing shaped not only my approach to childbirth but also instilled a deeper trust in the innate wisdom of my body.”

Question for your midwife: What other pain relief options do they see often that’s effective other than epidural? 

You can bring your own music or sounds to the delivery room.

Music can have a powerful impact on our emotions, and it can help create a calm and soothing environment for you during labor. You can bring your own playlist, a sound machine, or even your own voice to help you relax and focus during labor.

Question for your midwife: Can I bring music to the birthing room? 

Birthing pools can help you feel more comfortable and relaxed during labor.

Warm water can help ease the pain and discomfort of contractions, and it also allows you to move around more easily, which can help the baby move down the birth canal. Birthing pools can also provide a sense of privacy and intimacy during labor.

“Opting for water births with both my children was a game-changer. Lucky to have access to a birthing pool each time, the warm water brought unparalleled relief. It eased the pain of contractions, allowed me to move freely, and created a weightless sensation that enhanced my sense of control. Beyond the physical benefits, the birthing pool provided a private and intimate space, enveloping me in a soothing embrace. The choice reaffirmed my belief in diverse birthing options for a positive and empowering experience.”

Question for your midwife: Are there birth pools at the hospital or another way I can use water to relax?

You will probably poop during labor (and that's okay!).

It's a normal and natural part of the birthing process, and your nurses and doctors are used to it. Don't let this concern hold you back, it's nothing to be embarrassed about.

Birthing positions - there are many different positions that can help make the birthing process easier.

There are various birthing positions that can help make the birthing process easier, such as standing up, sitting down, on your hands and knees, or even lying down. Experiment with different positions to find what feels most comfortable for you.

Question for your midwife: In what positions are you willing to help me birth my baby?

(this is a great spot for you to give an example of what position you birthed in, what you see most as a birth photographer) 

Doulas are a great support and aren’t only used for birth.

A doula is a professional trained to provide emotional and physical support to a woman and her partner during pregnancy, labor, delivery, and postpartum period. A doula can help you with relaxation techniques, provide emotional support, and advocate for your wishes during birth.

Question for your midwife: Do you work with doulas often? Are there any you recommend?

You can eat and drink during labor, if you want to.

Having a light snack can help keep your energy levels up. It's important to listen to your body and your healthcare provider during labor, and to make sure you are well hydrated and nourished.

Question for your midwife: Under what circumstances will I not be allowed to eat or drink in labor?

The power of the mind - visualization and other relaxation techniques can help during labor.

Visualization and relaxation techniques such as hypnobirthing, yoga, and meditation can help you stay calm and focused during labor. It can also help to lower stress hormones and increase endorphins, which can make labor more manageable.

Question for your midwife: Is there anything I can do now to learn how to cope with labor?

Cesarean sections are not as scary as they seem.

C-sections are a common form of delivery and can be planned or unplanned. Your doctor and nurses will take great care of you and your baby during the procedure. It's important to remember that a c-section is a surgical procedure and there are risks associated with it, but it can also save the lives of both mother and baby in certain situations.

Question for your midwife: In what circumstances do you perform c-sections? 

So, there you have it, mama. You're armed with some new information that will hopefully help you feel more confident and excited about your birth!

I hope reading 10 things you were never told about giving birth has given you some solid ideas. 

If you’re still looking for a Derbyshire Newborn Photographer, click here to see more of my newborn images.

Download my checklist of questions to ask your midwife, below: