In this episode I talk to Sam Valentine about the birth of her daughter. Sam's experience of hypnobirthing was key (in fact, it lead her to train as a hypnobirthing instructor!); rather than using it to zone out, the techniques were crucial in helping her stay focussed and "in the room" when things didn't go to plan. Sam's story demonstrates the importance of finding your voice, listening to it and using it. You don't have to be an expert to get the respect you deserve in the birthing room; this episode will leave you with some strong knowledge on questions to ask, and how to make decisions about your care (even if you have no intention of doing hypnobirthing!).

Sam is also co-founder of Dotte (https://www.wearedotte.com/) a full circle remedy to the fastest area of fashion: kids' clothing. Sell your kids' outgrown items, browse for awesome new ones, package off unwearable bits for recycling and give yourself a pat on the back for your positive impact on the environment. Sign up to Dotte with the code HELLOBABY and you'll receive £5 cashback to spend online, plus lovely Sam and Louise will donate £5 to PANDAS Foundation. Thanks guys! 

Some things you might find useful: 

• Hypnobirthing: there are so many practitioners / books / courses out there and not all of them are good. Local to East London I recommend The Hypnobirthing Midwife (who also has as an awesome new-ish book out). Further afield I would ask pals for local recommendations, chat to the teacher yourself, and get an understanding of their attitude towards interventions like C-sections and epidurals. If they claim none of their clients have C-sections... well... I call bullshit..! Holly de Cruz's book is also recommended. 
• As ever you can read up on guidelines on NICE, RCOG and RCM websites; but do remember that guidelines aren't always based on top quality evidence. For a reality check take a look at AIMS, Sara Wickham, Birthrights. 
• BRAINS is a great mnemonic to help you make decisions about your care. If you are faced with something you're not sure about (e.g. an intervention) you could ask... What are the Benefits? What are the Risks? What does your Intuition tell you? What happens if we do Nothing? And last of all... ask your questions with a Smile to keep the oxytocin flowing, (and the caregivers on side!). 

Find me on the web, on Instagram, on Facebook or contact me at [email protected]. Special thanks to Tom Herbert aka electrobeard for the music.