Birth Preparation

Couples/Partners birth preparation weekends

are held on a Saturday 0r Sunday from 9.45 – 4.00pm. 

 

The emphasis of these workshops is on keeping birth 'normal'.

The 1 day workshop is held at the weekend either Saturday or Sunday from 9.45am - 4.00pm for women and their birth partner. This is a practical day for you both that will focus on 'Keeping Birth Normal'.  Every woman whether she plans to have her baby at home or in hospital will need to begin the early part of her labour at home and be confident and relaxed so that she rests and conserves her energy for when she needs it.  

We will achieve this by following a Woman Centred Approach so that your partner can support you during the labour with rest, massage, food and drinks, TLC.  Be able to recognise the changes in labour, when to go to hospital or call out the midwife.   During this day we will be covering the basic physiology and anatomy of birth,   breath (hypnobreathing), sounds, visualisations, movement, massage and postures to assist this process. We will introduce you to the benefits of Shiatsu pressure points, homeopathy, oils, waterbirth and the use of birth balls.

Couples2WEBSITE  We will look at inductions pros v cons, alternatives and 'Informed Consent'. This is a very practical hands-on birth workshop which aims to create a caring, informed, confidence building approach to birth and complements other more discussion lead ante natal classes.   I also do one to one Refresher Sessions for 2nd 3rd or 4th births, just contact me to discuss.

The cost per couple is £110.00, a concession is always available. Individual birth preparation sessions can also be arranged. Cost £ 50.00 per hr for 2 – 3 hrs.  For more details and Birth Preparation Letter contact kathleenbeegan@hotmail.com or ring me.

 

 

 

 

Shiatsu therapy is very beneficial during pregnancy as well as other times, I see men and women for treatments for back and neck problems, shoulder and digestive discomfort and for pure relief from stress! 

 

I often see women for Shiatsu during their pregnancy for back pain - upper and lower, pelvic pain or just to encourage their body to relax. There are specific pressure points that can help encourage labour when a  woman is near or past her due date. Shiatsu relaxes her body reducing adrenaline (which  can inhibit labour), and help initiate the cascade of hormones (oxytocin being the primary one) that are needed for the birthing process.


Shiatsu is not just for pregnancy but is open to men and women with

muscular-skeletal  problems. Neck/shoulder pain, lower back/hip pain. Shiatsu is very relaxing and can improve sleep and reduce emotional and physical stress and tension. 

 

For more details see www.shiatsu.org Ring Kathleen on  0208 7693613 re appt or to discuss in person.  Cost 1hour 50.00.  Concession available.

 

 

 

Doula (birth companion)

 

What is a doula? 'Doula' (pronounced 'doola')  is the Greek word meaning caregiver. It now refers to a woman who is experienced in offering emotional and practical support to a woman (or couple) before, during and after childbirth. A doula enables a woman to have the most satisfying and empowering time she can during pregnancy, birth and the early days as a new mother. This type of support also helps the whole family to relax and enjoy the experience.

 

What is a birth doula?  Birth doulas are trained and experienced in childbirth, although they may or may not have given birth themselves. They have a good knowledge and awareness of female physiology. However the doula is not supporting the mother in a clinical role - that is the job of the midwife/medical staff. The doula is employed by the parents.

 

What does a birth doula do? She will usually meet the woman and her partner at least twice during the pregnancy and attend the labour for as long as is needed. She will meet with the family postnatally too.

 

babywebsite

I have been lucky enough to attend many births over the years and I am registered with www.doulauk.org. Women and their partners choose to have a birth companion for many reasons the main one being continuity of care someone you’ve got to know in the pregnancy and who will support you both and act as an advocate for you during late pregnancy and labour.

 

Please check the Doula UK website for a wealth of information on www.doula.org.uk and when contacting me you are welcome to seek references from families whose births I have attended.
 
 
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