Certain procedures historically associated with childbirth are being re-evaluated. Some have been found to be unnecessary, others unjustified. However, most of today`s obstetricians believe that they can guarantee that childbirth is a safer and happier experience for a mother and her baby with the help of modern technology. By drawing your attention to the arguments con­cerning some standard medical practices, this will help you to question them assertively with your medical and nursing attendants. More often than not, your wishes will be complied with, especially if you have written a birth plan in advance, but occasionally you will be told that ...

To ensure a healthy pregnancy, you must attend your antenatal check-ups regularly. Although most pregnancies proceed normally, these visits and investigations are vital to monitor your progress and spot problems before any harm is done. Women at high risk, and those women with an existing condition such as diabetes or having a Rhesus negative blood group, are carefully monitored so that the baby's welfare is never in jeopardy. You will attend an antenatal clinic at either the hospital where you will have your baby or at your doctor's surgery. Most of the women attend once a month or so up until 7 ...

If it looks as if the baby will be born at home without medical assistance, you should telephone the hospital or the midwife if you haven't done so already. If you haven't got a telephone, on no account should you leave the mother alone. However anxious and overwhelmed you are, you must stay calm and reassure her - she needs to feel confident and relaxed. Encourage her to take up any positions in which she feels most comfortable and to eat and drink if she feels like it. Speak quietly and keep any onlookers at bay. Between contractions Turn up the heating in ...