There are many advantages to a water birth. Midwife and nurse, Sister Des Meyer talks us through it. There are three classifications for birth: a landbirth (the standard way of delivering as we understand it), labouring in water and giving birth in water. When we talk...
Knowing the difference between true labour and false labour is vital, particularly for first time moms. Doula Donna Bland spells out what you need to know. Pregnancy brings with it some strange experiences, including little niggly cramps and discomforts that can make...
Giving birth at home was the norm until about halfway through the 20th century, when hospital births became more common. Doula Donna Bland looks at what this choice entails. Women have many birth choices available to them today, including homebirth. Although there are...
Caring for a newborn can be a little scary, but with these top tips from Durban-based midwife Cheryl Rowe, who runs Cheryl’s Gentle Births, you’ll be feeling confident in no time. Bath Time Bliss Getting started Cheryl Rowe says, “For many of my moms, the first few...
Whether your pregnancy has been blissful or you just can’t wait for it to be over, the birthing process is inevitable, as is the pain of labour. Natalie Nelson helps new moms to explore what type of pain to expect during labour and how to manage it. You may have loved...
A premature birth can be described as an emotional rollercoaster ride and, simultaneously, a time of witnessing the miraculous, as a “preemie” fights to gain strength and keep growing. Kim Jansen explores premature or preterm births and how these warrior-like little...
Your baby’s first bath might make you a little nervous, but bathtime is a great bonding time for both parents. Doula Donna Bland gives you some pointers. Bathing a baby for the first time, and even the first few times can be quite daunting for new parents....
Packing for the hospital is usually an exciting experience for moms-to-be. Here’s how to prepare now that Covid-19 is a factor, writes midwife and nurse Sister Des Meyer. The sense of anticipation of the delivery, and your baby wearing their clothes is all part of the...
Many people are afraid of the pain that comes with labour, but it can be managed.Doula Donna Bland shares some tips and techniques. Giving birth is one of the most memorable and rewarding events a woman will ever go through. It can also be the scariest and most...
There are a range of tests that a doctor may perform to ensure the wellbeing of your baby. Paediatrician Dr Enrico Maraschin takes us through them. Tests on newborns begin a while before the baby is born – during the initial stages of pregnancy. Once baby is born,...
