Birth
The Workshops
All workshops are run at The Vale Practice and are held by our Midwife Julyette Cushnie. Each two to three hour class contains a minimum of 6 and a maximum of 12 people. This promotes intimate groups for greater information. We ask that you attend with your partner or birth partner. Please contact reception for a timetable of the workshops.
Pregancy Changes
You will gain Information on coping strategies and have discussions on: Role of the Midwife, physical changes in the body( swollen ankles, backache, constipation, varicose veins, nausea, vomiting, headaches, stretch marks).intercourse, emotional changes, healthy eating (nutritionist) and drinking alcohol and smoking.
30 minute Pilates Session concentrating on the pelvic floor also included.
Birth - What's it all about?
You will benefit from the Information and have discussions focusing on: the mechanism and process of labour and birth, the emotional impact of birth, things to put in your bag for the hospital, coping strategies from the early stages onwards, How do I know when labour has started? Coping strategies, vitamin k YES/NO, there will also be the opportunity to participate in role plays.
30 minute Pilates Session demonstrating correct breathing.
Home and Water Birth Workshops
Information and discussion on: preparation for using a birth pool, the equipment needed with the opportunity to see a pool in a box with a demonstration on its use, breathing and relaxation techniques, massaging techniques with a massage therapist, using aromatherapy with advice from an aroma therapist, using homeopathy, benefits of an active birth, coping strategies from the early stages on wards, pros and cons of a home or water birth.
Breastfeeding & The Alternatives
Information and discussion on: making the right choices when breastfeeding, expressing or using formula, the benefits of breastfeeding for you and your baby, anatomy of the breast, changes in the breast, contents of breast milk, lactation, positioning and attachment, diet and nutrition how to avoid engorgement and mastitis, when and how to express breast milk, Storage of breast milk, maternity bras, sterilising your equipment, making up a formula feed.
30 minute Pilates Session to aid good posture.
Unplanned Events
Information and discussion on how to deal with the unplanned events that may occur during labour for example: emergency c-section, shoulder dystocia, undiagnosed breech, cord pro-lapse, transferring to hospital, Ante and postpartum haemorrhage.
Planned Cesearian Sections
Additional information and discussion on: what to expect, the preparations to make antenately and postnately, good nutrition, life after a c-section, using homeopathy.
Express Yourself Dads
(Optional for mums!) An opportunity for fathers to express themselves re: there thoughts on pregnancy, their role in labour and being present for the birth, becoming a new father, there fears and expectations, intercourse, there thoughts on breastfeeding.
Life After Birth
Information, demonstration and participation on: how to help you prepare for a new baby, bathing your baby, dressing your baby, changing nappies, disposables or shaped cotton nappies, umbilical cord care, adjusting to baby’s crying and sleeping, thermoregulation, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (cot death) baby blues, postnatal depression, taking time out for you, 20 minute question and answer session.
Complimentary Additions to Maternity Care
: An opportunity to: hear and have a taster of the complimentary therapist discuss what they have to offer you pre-nately during labour and postnately, other health care professionals I.E. health visitor, dentist etc talk about there roles and there relevance to you. Sessions and prices may vary.
Postnatal & Breastfeeding Drop In
: Come and have a drink, a chat and catch up with old friends or meet new ones. A Midwife will be available for you to ask about any concerns regarding breast feeding, colic, sleeping patterns etc.
There are many options available depending on your needs. For more information on the services available for expectant mothers please visit: Vale.Birth.