Evenings @ The Lake
4 week Course including Reunion
Engage
Come and spend some evenings with me down by the lake as we take a gentle journey through labour, birth and beyond with a blend of evidence and context. We will work towards expanding your knowledge with both theory and practical tips, all designed to grow your confidence for the days ahead. Together we will explore the physiology of birth and what to expect as you learn how to work with your body to stay calm and in control. If a birth plan is part of your plan then you will uncover all the tools you need to support you with making informed decisions.
Inform
Let me guide you through your options for managing labour as we take a look at everything from relaxation & breathing through to epidural; if you're up for it we will spend some time with the birthing balls going through useful techniques for before and during the big day. Over the coming weeks we will cover how to navigate when things differ from your expectations and you can find out more about the alternatives to spontaneous vaginal birth including Elective CS. As Induction of Labour rates continue to rise, we also turn our attention to the risks and benefits alongside a review of the evidence.
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Empower
Birth Partners are not forgotten as we piece together a solid plan to ensure the very best emotional and practical support on the big day, plus we'll brush up their massage skills! Then as we enter the 4th Trimester, I hope to guide you in preparing for a safe and positive postnatal experience including a First Aid demonstration with the option of hands on practice. Never changed a nappy or dressed a baby before? Don't worry, I've got you covered! Relaxed and informal, Baytree sessions are fun, interactive and the perfect way to connect with other families due around the same time as you.
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Evening Session 18:45-21:00
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Refreshments Provided
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Designated, free parking
Andark Lake, Oslands Lane, Southampton
SO317EG
Course Overview
Preparing for birth: From packing your hospital bag to perineal massage and eating dates!
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Place of birth: Choosing the right place for you
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Stages of Labour: What happens during each stage
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Physiology of Labour: Hormones, anatomy and optimising progress
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Signs of Labour: How to recognise that your baby may be on the way
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The Latent phase: How it works and tips for coping at home
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Birth Partner's Role: Practical Tips on how to support physically and emotionally
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Relaxation and Breathing: How less force, more flow can work for you
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Options for managing contractions: Acupressure through to Epidural
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How to navigate Informed choice in labour: The questions you should be asking
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Induction of Labour: A review of the evidence and guidelines​​​​​​
Deviations from normal: Interventions that may be offered in labour
Alternatives to spontaneous vaginal birth: What to expect if you are offered an alternative mode of birth
Your options for your Placenta: Is physiological or active management right for you?
The Golden Hour: The importance of helping your baby to transition to independent life
Postnatal Recovery: What to expect after birth
Your Options for feeding: Breast, Artificial, Expressing or Mixed
The Fourth Trimester: Adjusting to life as a family
Baby Care: With a focus on supporting the developing skin barrier
SIDS: Safer Sleeping Guidelines to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome
Baby First Aid: How to manage in an emergency
Group Reunion included
Come and introduce your new arrival arrival to the rest of your group. I'll bring the cake!
Access to Baytree Babies
Complimentary coffee mornings once a month exclusively for Baytree families.
