Stages of labour and birth

There are 27 themed articles on the site covering subjects of particular importance for normal birth. Each of the themes stems from one of the six stories and can be accessed from the story pages. Below, these themes are arranged under four stages of labour and birth.

Antenatal care
Preparation for birth
Establishing relationships
Respecting her wishes
Women's expections
Homebirths are safe!
Support network
Minimizing risk

First stage of labour
Induction
Rupturing membranes
Inner environment
Coping with pain
Fetal monitoring
Relying on technology
Masterly inactivity
Long labour

Second stage of labour
Second stage pushing
Birth positions
Making a noise
Normal breech birth
Trust

Postnatal care
Arriving in world
Sense of achievement

Other issues
Negotiation with colleagues
Dealing with confrontation
Solidarity
Role modelling
Defensive practice