Your antenatal care and childbirth options explained

You’ve just found out you’re pregnant! Now what? Public or private? Obstetrician or GP? Birthing centre or home birth? Not to worry – we’ve put together this article as a summary of the main types of antenatal and childbirth care available in Australia. Although not all regions and states will have all options available. There […]
You did WHAT with your placenta?

I ate it! Just reading of those words might have your stomach churning, but hold on to your lunch; read on if you can. Rich in hormones, minerals, chemicals, proteins and irons, ‘placentophagy’ – as it is scientifically known – has been linked to many exceptional benefits for the new mother such as: Stabilising mood; […]
When women are birthing alone in Australia, every doula counts

“Have you heard that Meghan Markle is getting a doula?”, I keep getting asked. Well, she’s not the only one. I’m lucky to regularly hear first-hand of the value of the practical, personal and emotional support provided by doulas throughout pregnancy, birth and early parenting. It’s not just celebrities like Nicole Kidman, Alicia Keys and […]
What to pack for labour and hospital – a checklist

Are you unsure about what to pack in your hospital bag? Do you need to pack nappies? What clothes will the baby need? Will you want anything specific for when you’re in labour? Firstly, check with your hospital. Some may provide things like nappies and wipes, but many don’t. They may have a birth ball […]
19 tips to help you prepare for a c-section
If you are scheduled to have a caesarean section, it can be scary if you don’t know what you’re in for. The best way to curb that fear and stay on top of your nerves is to know what to expect. From preparation, to how to handle yourself after you’re out of surgery — it really […]
What is a doula?
When a woman gives birth she is usually surrounded by quite a few people – all with their varying but important roles to play. Usually by her side is her partner, offering love, care and encouragement, eagerly awaiting the emotional arrival of a new baby. The midwife is there to monitor, support and guide her […]
What causes premature birth?
Approximately 40,000 babies are admitted to Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) or Special Care Nurseries (SCNs) each year for a variety of reasons. Approximately 21,000 of these babies are born prematurely. About 6000 babies require critical and intensive life support each year. So what causes premature birth and what are the major risk factors for […]
The stages of labour explained

Labour and childbirth can be a daunting notion to think about. The best thing to do is to read up on exactly what happens and what to expect. You should also ask your health care provider as many questions as you can. Labour is a series of events that brings about the dilation of the […]
The benefits of Shiatsu Massage in pregnancy and labour

Whether it’s for the aches and pains of pregnancy or better coping with birth, shiatsu massage therapist Mardi Kendall says if you let yourself relax, you will reap the rewards. It’s often said that pregnant women “glow”. But this isn’t to say pregnancy is easy. Between 50 to 80 percent of women suffer from back […]
The benefits of skin-to-skin contact after birth

That first cuddle with your new baby is a magical time, but did you know it’s also an important time for your health and the health of your newborn? There’s plenty of research to support the benefits of skin-to-skin contact immediately after birth and beyond. It is said to impact positively on parent-baby bonding, breastfeeding […]