For most first time mothers, the actual labour and birth are the scariest aspects of becoming a parent. Family and friends who already have children will no doubt try to terrify you with their horrific labour and birth stories. The best advice we can give is DON’T LISTEN TO THEM! Everybody’s experience of childbirth is different – keep an open mind, your expectations realistic and this may sound strange but try and enjoy it!

• You can only plan so much, as you will not know how you will feel once labour begins. Some women have contractions all in the front, whilst others will have contractions in their backs. You may need to be induced, your baby might be breech, you may need an assisted delivery or even a caesarean.
• There is an end to it – this will be the only time in your life where being in pain results in such a fantastic outcome.
• Remember – each contraction brings you one step closer to meeting your baby!