How to Prepare for Labour and Birth

As your due date approaches, it is natural to feel a mix of excitement and nerves about labour and birth. Being well prepared can make a real difference to how confident and in control you feel on the day.

Know the Signs of Labour

The main signs labour is beginning include regular contractions growing stronger and closer together, a ‘show’ (mucus plug from the cervix), your waters breaking, and a dull ache in your lower back. If unsure, always call your midwife.

Attend Antenatal Classes

Antenatal classes cover the stages of labour, pain relief options, breathing techniques, and what to expect at hospital. Ask your midwife about NHS classes, or look into NCT or hypnobirthing courses.

Write a Birth Plan

A birth plan lets you share your preferences with your midwifery team — where you want to give birth, pain relief wishes, skin-to-skin preferences, and who you want present. Stay flexible, as labour does not always go exactly to plan.

Pain Relief Options

• Gas and air — oxygen and nitrous oxide, easy to self-administer

• TENS machine — best in early labour to stimulate natural painkillers

• Warm water — a bath or birthing pool can be very soothing

• Epidural — the most effective option, numbing pain from the waist down

Prepare Your Birth Partner

Research shows that women with a supportive, informed birth partner have shorter labours and a reduced need for pain relief. Involve your partner in antenatal classes and go through your birth plan together.

Get a Pre-Labour Wellbeing Scan

A private wellbeing scan at MyBaby Ultrasound in Camberley can check your baby’s position, movements, and overall health as you approach your due date — giving you one final reassurance before labour begins.