Back to Basics Birthing with Vicki Hobbs

 We have so many childbirth education programs that educate and prepare women for pregnancy, labour and birth, but not too many include what happens immediately after birth, and what women should be aware of, so they don’t feel so anxious or stressed if these things do occur. 

A birth plan will ensure the wants and needs of the mother are at the forefront of her care - rather than the wants and needs of her care providers. Having a birth plan doesn't mean that you can't change your mind at any time. A birth plan sets a platform for discussion, informed consent and trust with your care providers. This podcast will give you some ideas of why you need a birth plan.

During labour most women like massage to help release endorphins, relax the body and give them loving touch.  In this episode I share some simple, yet effective massage tips to use during labour. 

There are still a lot of myths and fears surrounding pregnancy massage.

Finding out you are pregnant is such an exciting time, however sometimes first-time mums are oblivious to the stress-producing changes that their bodies are about to experience. 

Some of the consequences of these changes can leave a woman feeling sore, tired, emotional and uncomfortable. 

Every pregnant woman deserves some pampering and massage is a wonderful way to reduce stress, promote general wellbeing and relaxation, prepare muscles and joints for childbirth while at the same time providing so many other therapeutic benefits. 

Massage is therefore a great way to relieve discomfort and help your body adjust to the growing baby inside you. 

Sometimes I notice women chatting on social media about having read a book on hypnobirthing but it didn't really work for them. Other times couples think that hypnobirthing looks like it will be a bit too woowoo or way too alternative for them. 

Many of my past clients say that we should change the name "hypnobirthing" as it conjures up images of people doing silly things like clucking like a chicken on stage and the name gives the wrong impression of what hypnobirthing is. 

In this episode I talk about why it is important to not just read a book, but attend the classes with a qualified Hypnobirthing Australia™ practitioner and the reasons why - because hypnobirthing is so much more than just reading a book or being hypnotised.