Hydration around labor, birth, and early recovery Fluid needs are not identical throughout the perinatal period. In early labor, a person who is clinically well and permitted to drink may tolerate small, frequent amounts of water or other suitable fluids.…

Nutrition is preparation, not a test of perfection In late pregnancy, nutritional priorities include maintaining maternal health, supporting ongoing fetal development, and preserving adequate nutrient stores for delivery and early postpartum recovery. The placenta, uterus, blood volume, and fetal tissues…

What the evidence says about activity and labor Physical activity cannot control cervical dilation, fetal position, placental function, or the need for obstetric intervention. Nevertheless, research indicates that staying active may favorably influence some measurable labor outcomes. A prospective cohort…

Understanding the pelvic floor in labor The pelvic floor is a layered group of muscles, connective tissue, and fascia forming the base of the pelvis. It supports the bladder, uterus, and bowel, contributes to continence, and helps stabilize the pelvis…

Confirm your care plan and place of birth Before labor begins, clarify where you are expected to go and which service should be contacted first. Depending on your circumstances, this may be a hospital labor ward, a midwife-led unit, a…

What birth preparation involves Birth preparation includes the decisions and arrangements made before labor begins. These may involve selecting a maternity unit, hospital, birth center, or, where clinically appropriate and professionally supported, a planned home birth. It also includes identifying…

1. Begin with individualized clinical planning Start by reviewing your pregnancy and anticipated needs with the clinician responsible for your maternity care. The discussion should consider gestational age, fetal presentation, placental location, previous births or cesarean procedures, uterine surgery, multiple…

Start with individualized medical planning Begin by reviewing your pregnancy history and anticipated delivery needs with your maternity clinician. The appropriate place of birth may depend on gestational age, fetal presentation, placental location, prior uterine surgery, multiple gestation, hypertension, diabetes,…

Step 1: Review your clinical situation and maternity care pathway Begin by confirming who is responsible for your maternity care, where you expect to give birth, and how to contact the correct service at any hour. Ask whether you should…

Start with prenatal medical readiness Birth preparation begins with consistent prenatal care. Attend recommended appointments and discuss your estimated due date, fetal growth and presentation, placental location, blood pressure, laboratory results, and any conditions that may affect delivery. Ask whether…