How to Prepare for Labour: What to Expect and How to Empower Yourself for the Big Day

Knowing what to expect and being prepared for labour can make all the difference in reducing anxiety and boosting your confidence as you approach one of the most transformative experiences of your life. Let’s dive into what happens during labour and how you can prepare to meet your baby with calm and confidence.

Understanding Labour: The Three Stages and What They Mean for You

Labour is divided into three stages, and each stage brings its own challenges and milestones. Here's what you need to know:

1. The First Stage: From Early Contractions to Full Dilation

This stage begins when you start having regular contractions. At first, these contractions may feel like strong menstrual cramps, but they will gradually become more intense and frequent as your cervix opens and thins out (dilates and effaces).

How to Prepare:

• Practice relaxation techniques and breathing exercises to manage the pain and keep calm during this stage.

• Create a space—whether at home or in the hospital—that makes you feel comfortable and at ease. Think about lighting, music, and scents that relax you.

2. The Second Stage: From Full Dilation to the Birth of Your Baby

Once your cervix is fully dilated, it’s time to push! This stage is when you’ll feel the urge to push with each contraction, helping your baby move down the birth canal and into your arms.

How to Prepare:

• Learn the right pushing techniques during your prenatal classes, so you feel confident and capable when the time comes.

• Discuss your options for pain relief ahead of time, but know that every labour is unique. Some mums prefer to go without, while others benefit from pain management—either choice is completely valid.

3. The Third Stage: Delivery of the Placenta

After your baby is born, you’ll enter the final stage of labour: delivering the placenta. This is usually the shortest stage, and involves mild contractions to help your body expel the placenta.

How to Prepare:

• Knowing that there’s still a bit of work to do after your baby is born can help you stay mentally prepared.

• Many women opt for skin-to-skin contact with their newborn during this time, which can help you bond and encourage breastfeeding.

My Top Tips for a Positive Labour Experience

From my years as a midwife, here are a few tips to help you prepare for the most positive birth experience possible:

Stay Informed

Knowledge really is power when it comes to birth. Attend antenatal classes, read up on labour, and have open conversations with friends who’ve had positive experiences. The more you know, the less room there is for fear.

Pack Your Bag by 36 Weeks

Make sure your hospital bag is ready to go early, so there’s no last-minute panic. Pack things that bring you comfort—your favourite pillow, some music you love, snacks, and any other personal items that will help you feel at home.

Build Your Support Team

Think about who you want by your side during labour. Whether it’s your partner, a close friend, or a family member, choose someone who makes you feel calm, supported, and empowered.

Be Flexible

Having a birth plan is a great way to communicate your wishes, but it’s also important to be open to changes. Sometimes, things don’t go exactly as planned, and being flexible can help you stay focused on the most important thing—bringing your baby safely into the world.

I’m Here for You, Every Step of the Way

As your midwife, I’m with you through it all—from early labour to postnatal care. I’m here to help you manage pain, offer emotional support, monitor your baby’s well-being, and ensure that you feel empowered and respected throughout the process. My goal is for you to have a safe, positive, and supported birth experience.

Labour can be intense and challenging, but it’s also one of the most rewarding things you’ll ever do. Preparing yourself—mind, body, and heart—will make a huge difference, and remember, you’re never alone. Myself and your birth team will be there to support you every step of the way.

For more in-depth preparation and support, consider joining one of my antenatal classes, where we cover everything from labour techniques to postnatal care.

I’d love to help you feel informed, confident, and ready for the birth experience you deserve.

Reach out to learn more about upcoming sessions and how I can support you throughout this special time.

With all my support,