In our first session together, we begin the wonderful journey of getting to know one another. Building a relationship where you trust me and feel comfortable to share your thoughts and feelings openly. Being invited on this journey alongside you is a great honour and I want you to know that I am always here if you need anything.

We will talk all about birth mapping—also known as birth planning. Birth mapping is a process where we explore the different possibilities and scenarios that may arise during labour and birth. Together, we’ll look at potential outcomes, interventions, and your preferences so you can develop a plan or strategy for each situation.

The purpose of birth mapping is to help you feel informed, prepared, and empowered throughout your birthing journey. It gives you space to consider your values, priorities, and the choices that align with your desired birth experience.

When creating your birth map, we will explore topics such as:
• Interventions and medical procedures
• Unexpected scenarios
• Communication and advocacy

By discussing these “less than ideal” possibilities, the goal is for you to feel a greater sense of confidence and control. Birth mapping isn’t about predicting the exact course of your labour, but about equipping you to make informed decisions and navigate your experience with flexibility and assurance.

Before this session please watch:

Module 1 - Beliefs about birth

• Introduction to beliefs about birth

• Your birth vision

• Mindset

• Your belief system

Module 3 - Physiological birth

• Introduction - Physiological birth 

• Physiological birth

• The hormones of birth

• Quick Biology lesson

• Stages of labour - what to expect

• Timing contractions

• Knowing when to go to hospital 

• Active labour

• Transition

• Pushing your baby out

• Protecting your perineum

• Golden hour after birth

• Birthing your placenta

• Blood loss

• What will my baby look like

Module 5 - Advocacy

• Birth in a hospital system

• Informed consent

• Policy V’s evidence

• Weighing up risk

Module 6 - When you need more - Pain Relief Options

• When pain becomes suffering…what then?

• Pharmaceutical Pain relief

Module 7 - Induction

• Natural induction

• Medical induction

• Artificial Rupture of Membranes

• Balloon Catheter

• Synthetic Oxytocinon drip

• Prostaglandin Gel

• Stretch and sweep

• Top tips for a positive induction

Module 8 - Medical intervention

• The three types of fetal monitoring

• Vaginal examinations

• Episiotomy

• Assisted delivery

• Caesarean section

• Tips for a Caesarean birth

Module 10

• Writing your birth preferences
  

Homework after session 1

• Reflect on what was discussed in session 1 and keep adding to your birth preference list. Including your preferences for each stage of labour, pain relief options and possible medical interventions. Also keeping a flexible mindset as unexpected circumstances may arise as your labour and birth unfold.

• Explore podcasts, read books and watch birth videos on Youtube. Please let me know if I can send you my recommendations. 

• Start a daily practice of listening to a guided meditation. It is a wonderful way to connect with your body, mind and baby.