1. Antenatal Course

Look out for government or private anntenatal classes. In the UK, NHS and NCT offer fantastic courses. These courses are a wonderful way to learn all about pregnancy, labour, child birth and new born but also a wonderful way to network with other mums and dads in your area.

2. First aid course

You will be the prime carer of a new baby, if you dont know the basics of first aid already, it is an area worth reading up on or taking a course. Hopefully you will never need to use these skills but if you do, you’ll be grateful you know the basics.

3. Perineal Massage

Undertaking perineal massage from 37 weeks onwards is known Stretch the mouth of the cervix assisting in stretching and flexibility during labour. Olive oil or perineal oil can be used. 

4. Raspberry Leaf Tea

Drinking raspberry leaf tea from 37 weeks onwards is known to stretch and flex the cervix ready for labour. Two cups a day is said to help childbirth. 

5. Yoga

Pre-natal Yoga can help with child birthing positions and pain management. Yoga can also help all the way through the pregnancy to manage back pain and prepare the body for childbirth. Look for a local class through NCT or netmums or  get a DVD such as the Tara Lee pre/post natal series.

6. Read

There are plenty of topics that are worth reading up on before the baby arrives which include: Breast Feeding, Nappy Changing, Sleeping patterns, Baby massage, Baby discomforts(Colic & Reflux), Baby Vaccinations, baby lead weening, childcare etc;

7. Washing

Using a non-bio washing liquid and fabric softener, wash all the baby clothes ready for the baby’s arrival.

What did you do to prepare for labour day ?