So, does hypnobirthing really work? An expert weighs in
I was in a delivery ward recently, and a midwife said “oh you teach HypnoBirthing, that’s fantastic – it doesn’t work for everyone but we (in the delivery ward) can definitely see it helps. It changes a woman’s mindset.” I’ve been thinking about this ever since, and the whole question of ‘does it work.’ To answer […]
8 years ago
Stop blaming women for Ireland’s Caesarean section rates
Caesarean section rates are always a hot topic in this country. Figures released by the HSE have shown that the rate of birth via C-Section is growing year-on-year. With a professional interest in birth, and also pre and postnatal care and education, I’m interested in why this rate continues to grow and also, what we […]
10 years ago
Here’s how to resist the urge to be a superwoman after birth
So you’ve had your baby, and you were, well… amazing. A goddess, a pillar of courage and grace and strength. Now what? Baby swimming, baby tai chi, teach your baby sign language, keep the house spotless, eat five-a-day, practice mindfulness, get your pre-baby body back, look outstanding… oh, and breastfeed, change nappies and get used […]
10 years ago
OPINION: Inducing Labour: Does It Shift the Goal Posts of Birth?
I’ve had three ‘overdue’ and ‘big’ babies. I’ve been told on each one that I’m ‘measuring over’. I’ve been sent for a ‘sizing scan’ in the last few weeks of pregnancy. I’ve had to say ‘no thank you’ to the offer of induction on all three. In the end they were all born without medical […]
10 years ago
6 Reasons To Choose A Midwife-Led Birth
In my mind, midwives are absolute angels. Practicing midwifery is definitely a vocation; I have huge respect for their expertise and the compassion and emotional support they offer, often in a very difficult working environment and for not a lot of money. Some women feel consultant-led care is the ‘safest’ and ‘best’ care during pregnancy and […]
10 years ago
4 Movies Every Pregnant Woman Should Watch…
There are loads….loads of movies that portray pregnancy, labour and birth pretty negatively: 9 Months, Look Who’s Talking, Father of the Bride Part II, Knocked Up to name a few. It’s much harder to find something to watch that’ll get you feeling positive and confident so get out the popcorn, here’s my top 4 movies every […]
11 years ago
Why I Brought The Positive Birth Movement To Dublin
As soon as your bump pops out, you become a shining beacon for the worst, most toe-curling, terrifying birth stories ever heard. I remember being pregnant with my first baby, just past the 20 weeks mark and being completely delighted with life. I went for a coffee with someone I really love and respect. She […]
11 years ago