The third stage of labour

Preparing for your prenatal appointments is important. Find out our prenatal checklist, so you can ask the right questions to your healthcare provider.

Sharing the adventure of pregnancy, birth and parenting can make this one of life’s most rewarding experiences.

A birth plan or wish list is not a set of commands and demands, and certainly not a contract.

During the first stage, also known as the dilation stage, your cervix will dilate and efface from 0–10 cm.

Screening ultrasound scan

Older siblings learn about sharing, life-long love and friendship.

A Caesarean birth is the delivery of your baby through an abdominal uterine incision, instead of vaginally.

This stage begins when the cervix reaches complete dilation and effacement, and it ends with the birth of the baby.

By taking responsibility for your body, you can maximise your level of wellbeing and enjoy good health.

Good nutrition is of the utmost importance during your pregnancy

Today an increasing number of women are facing the challenges of pregnancy, birth and parenthood alone. This may be through personal choice or circumstantial.

Each woman’s labour is unique and unpredictable. It is important therefore that you are prepared for all the possible eventualities and you keep an open mind.

Labour support is a concept that has been around for thousands of years.

You may need to consider some personal issues before you become pregnant.

What signs and symptoms during pregnancy to be aware about.

Protein (and the amino acids within) is the most important building blocks for all human cells. Given the rapid cell development of your baby-to-be it should be an essential part of your diet.

In most instances, the baby’s head is the presenting part that moves into your pelvis before labour begins.

In a normal, uncomplicated labour and delivery, the use of medication is not always necessary. Your own resources are often enough.

Physical changes

All parents worry about the possibility of complications such as prematurity, abnormality, stillbirth and neonatal death.