Labour and childbirth
The end of pregnancy is in sight – but first there's labour and childbirth to get through. Find out the difference between Braxton Hicks and contractions, how to get labour started, what happens during the stages of labour, the pros and cons of home versus hospital births, different pain relief options, c-sections and more.
Braxton Hicks
So are the tightening feelings around your bump contractions or Braxton Hicks? And how will you know that labour has started? We've got the answers.
Home birth or hospital birth?
Our advice will help you weigh up the pros and cons of having your baby at home, in a birth centre or in a hospital.
Early stage of labour
The first stage of labour is divided into the early phase, the active phase and transition. Knowing about each will help you to feel in control during childbirth.
Epidurals
In case your birth plan ends up being shredded by a more tricky labour than you anticipated, have a look at the main forms of pain relief available to you during labour.
C-section
Find out what happens during a caesarean, why you might have one, what it feels like and the difference between an elective and an emergency c-section.
Things partners need to know about childbirth
It's not you – it's ME! If your other half's having a baby, heed this advice. There are a few things every partner should know – like egos and ineptitude have NO place in the delivery room.
Newborn essentials
Separate the must-haves from the mostly-useless with this starter-for-10 list of what Mumsnetters think are essential items when you have a newborn.
Babies: The Mumsnet Guide
Indispensable when you're chained to a sofa feeding a baby. It's your road map to the uncharted world of the postnatal.