What will labour feel like?
calmbirth® seeks to help you understand the processes of labour and birth and provide you with a range of techniques and skills to change your experience of the physical sensations of labour and manage the surges or waves. Each birth is unique and no two women will have the same experience. Some women will describe labour as painful, some describe it as the sensations of a muscle working hard, some describe it as powerful but not painful at all. The knowledge and the skills you will learn will assist you and your partner to face any challenges that arise and empower you to work with your labour, however it unfolds.
Does it matter where I am having my baby or the type of care I have chosen?
calmbirth® compliments all models of care, be it private or public, birth centre or homebirth and is not an alternative to the birthing choices you have already made. You will gain practical knowledge and skills whether this is your first birth, your third birth or a vaginal birth after a previous caesarean (VBAC). Preparation, determination and practice are the keys to a positive and rewarding experience.
What is the role of my partner and will the course be useful for him/her too?
Your partner and/or support person plays a very important role in assisting you to maintain the relaxation and breathing techniques and to feel safe, confident and comfortable. Educating them about this important role and giving them practical ways they can assist are an integral part of the calmbirth® classes.