Month: July 2023

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Teaching Techniques for Perinatal Educators

Good teaching techniques are essential for perinatal educators who want to give expectant parents clear and effective guidance. They help birth keepers educate and empower parents-to-be with the knowledge and skills they need to navigate childbirth and their maternity system with confidence.

Teaching techniques for perinatal educators

Lecture – The simplest teaching method is to stand in front of the group and share the information. Lectures let you cover a lot of information in a short time, save learners from doing extensive research of their own, and present complex ideas in a structured way. However, the lecture method has its drawbacks. Listening is passive, and people usually remember only a fraction of what they hear in a lecture, because they don’t get to engage actively with the material.

Visual aids – Posters, banners, illustrations and videos can greatly improve understanding and recall. Visual aids make the learning environment more engaging and interactive, and make complex concepts easier to grasp.

Active learning – Encourage expectant parents to take part in discussions, group activities and role-plays. This lets them practise the skills they will need during childbirth and builds a sense of empowerment and confidence.

Storytelling – Sharing real-life birth stories and experiences can give expectant parents practical insights and emotional support. Storytelling builds empathy and creates a connection between you and the parents, fostering trust and openness.

Brainstorming – Brainstorming invites expectant parents to share their thoughts and ideas about pregnancy, birth and parenting. It opens up discussion and lets participants exchange experiences, worries and knowledge. Together they can explore strategies, techniques and coping tools for the challenges and joys of pregnancy and early parenthood. This collaborative approach also builds a sense of community and support, so people feel more prepared and empowered.

Q&A – Allow time for questions and answers. When people ask their own questions, they think more deeply, and they understand the answers better than information given in a lecture.

Technology – Online resources, interactive apps and virtual platforms offer extra learning opportunities and make your teaching more accessible. Technology lets you reach a wider audience and support parents beyond the classroom.

Card sort – Prepare cards with prompts such as signs of the onset of labour, baby feeding cues or the hormones of childbirth. Participants sort the prompts into groups based on what they have in common. This is a visual, interactive way to understand and organise information, and it helps people see the connections between different concepts, options and ideas.

Demonstrations – Demonstrations are the best way to teach breathing techniques, positions and movement for birth (and other practical topics). Showing these techniques gives a clear picture and supports both visual and kinaesthetic learners. Encourage expectant parents to try the techniques during the session. This will not only deepen their understanding but also help them remember it.

Goodie bag – Pass around a bag or box of props (for example, things that may be useful in the early postnatal period). Each person picks an object, says what it is and why they think it could be helpful.

Quizzes – A quiz can be done in small groups, as homework or as a worksheet in class. It is useful for reviewing information you have already covered, especially simple information such as “Name three things that help you relax”. It also works well for information that is good to know but doesn’t need to be memorised, such as the benefits of having a doula.

Small group discussions – Dividing the class into smaller groups helps people talk more openly and exchange ideas freely. Sometimes it helps to keep couples together; at other times it is better to separate them. Small group discussions encourage active participation and improve the whole learning experience.

Games – There are lots of different games you can use in antenatal education, such as a stages of labour board game or a birth story dice game. Games are fun and interactive, people solve problems together and remember more. However, they can take up a lot of time for the amount of information covered.

Homework – Worksheets to take home, lists of skills to practise, book recommendations and further reading all encourage expectant parents to think about their journey between sessions. An antenatal class journal works well for this. Be prepared, though: many of your clients won’t actually do their homework…

Sources and further reading

  • Brookfield, S.D., 2013. Powerful techniques for teaching adults. John Wiley & Sons.
  • FutureLearn: https://www.futurelearn.com/info/blog/how-to-teach-adult-learners
  • Kerka, S., 2002. Teaching adults: Is it different?. ERIC Clearinghouse on Adult, Career, and Vocational Education, Center on Education and Training for Employment, College of Education, the Ohio State University.
  • Nesbit, T., Leach, L. and Foley, G., 2020. Teaching adults. In Dimensions of adult learning (pp. 74–95). Routledge.
  • Rogers, A. and Horrocks, N., 2010. Teaching adults. McGraw-Hill Education (UK).
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Driving when pregnant

Driving when pregnant is something many expectant parents wonder about. Most people can carry on driving throughout pregnancy, but it is worth putting safety and comfort first.

Top 5 tips for driving when pregnant

  1. Adjust your seat: Position your seat so you can reach the pedals comfortably while keeping a safe distance from the steering wheel. Sitting too close to the wheel can increase the risk of injury to you and your bump in an accident. To ease back pain on longer journeys, you may like to use a lumbar support pillow (affiliate link).
  2. Wear your seat belt correctly: In the UK you must wear a seat belt when you are pregnant, unless your doctor says you don’t need to for medical reasons. Place the lap belt under your bump, across your hips, and the diagonal belt between your breasts and to the side of your bump. Worn like this, the belt protects you without pressing on your abdomen.
  3. Take breaks and stay hydrated: Long drives can become uncomfortable in pregnancy, so stop regularly to stretch your legs and have a drink. Dehydration can cause tiredness and discomfort, so keep water with you. Getting out and walking around also helps reduce the risk of blood clots in your legs.
  4. Plan for toilet stops: As your pregnancy progresses, your growing uterus presses on your bladder, so you will probably need the loo more often. Plan your route with service stations or toilets along the way.
  5. Listen to your body: Every pregnancy is different. If you start to feel uncomfortable or tired while driving, pull over and rest, or ask someone else to take the wheel if you can.

If you have any concerns about driving during your pregnancy, talk to your midwife or GP. They can give you advice based on your own situation and medical history. Stay safe and enjoy the journey!

If you are planning to go abroad, have a look at my blog posts on flying when pregnant and travelling when pregnant.

Online Birth Preparation Course only £35!

Please also check out my online course! No videos, just text and images to learn in your own time. Includes hypnobirthing mp3s, scripts, workbook, handouts, infographics and much more! Lots and lots of information at your fingertips! Includes:

  • hypnobirthing mp3s
  • hypnobirthing scripts
  • written information
  • infographics and other imagery
  • printable handouts
  • printable workbook/journal
Enrol now

Sources and further reading:

  • ACOG (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists). Travel during pregnancy. FAQ, acog.org.
  • Cantwell R, et al. Saving Mothers’ Lives: Reviewing maternal deaths to make motherhood safer: 2006–2008. The Eighth Report of the Confidential Enquiries into Maternal Deaths in the United Kingdom. BJOG. 2011 Mar;118 Suppl 1:1–203. doi: 10.1111/j.1471-0528.2010.02847.x. PMID: 21356004. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21356004/
  • GOV.UK. Seat belts: the law. Available from: https://www.gov.uk/seat-belts-law/when-you-dont-need-to-wear-a-seat-belt
  • Hendey GW, Votey SR. Injuries in restrained motor vehicle accident victims. Ann Emerg Med. 1994 Jul;24(1):77–84. doi: 10.1016/s0196-0644(94)70166-0. PMID: 8010553.
  • Johnson HC, Pring DW. (2000) Car seatbelts in pregnancy: the practice and knowledge of pregnant women remain causes for concern. BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, 107: 644–647. doi: 10.1111/j.1471-0528.2000.tb13307.x
  • NHS. Travelling in pregnancy: https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/keeping-well/travelling/
  • NHS. DVT (deep vein thrombosis): https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/deep-vein-thrombosis-dvt/
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Teaching about hormones during childbirth

Teaching about hormones during childbirth is a crucial part of antenatal education. So why is it so important for expectant parents to learn about hormones and the role they play in labour and birth?

Understanding birth hormones empowers expectant parents to make the right choices for themselves and their birth. When they know about the physiological changes that happen during labour, parents often find it easier to make decisions and prepare their birth plans.

Knowing how hormones work helps demystify the birth process and builds confidence and a sense of control. Hormones play a huge role in childbirth:

Oxytocin, often called the ‘love hormone’, helps start and regulate contraction waves. It also promotes bonding between parent and baby and enhances the whole birth experience.

Endorphins act as natural painkillers during labour and birth. These feel-good hormones help manage discomfort and can bring a sense of euphoria and wellbeing.

Adrenaline, usually linked to the body’s stress response, also plays a part. Too much early on can slow labour down, but a surge near the end gives the birthing person the energy for the final stage. Understanding how adrenaline works helps parents appreciate its purpose and reduces unnecessary fear.

Exploring the delicate dance and balance of birth hormones gives parents a real understanding of the body’s amazing abilities, and lets them approach birth with knowledge, mindfulness and appreciation for the wonders of nature.

Remember, teaching about birth hormones isn’t just about passing on knowledge – it’s also about building confidence and a positive mindset, so parents can approach labour and birth feeling empowered, trusting and believing in the remarkable strength of the human body.

Ideas for teaching about hormones during childbirth

Here are some suggestions for creating engaging activities and a memorable learning experience:

1. Introduction: Start by explaining why hormones matter during childbirth and their role in the physiological process. Introduce the main hormones, such as oxytocin, prostaglandins and endorphins.

2. Stages of labour: Discuss each stage, highlighting the hormonal changes that happen and how they help labour progress and support the wellbeing of birthing parent and baby. I love using my childbirth timelines (banners and beadlines) to explore how birth unfolds, along with my Stages of Labour worksheets and visual aids.

3. Oxytocin: Explain the ‘love hormone’ and its key role in starting and strengthening contractions, how it promotes bonding between parents and baby, and how it helps with breastfeeding. Posters make great visual aids for your classes and doula bag – such as my Affirmations and Hormones poster set.

4. Prostaglandins: Describe how prostaglandins soften and thin the cervix, preparing the body for labour. This is also a good moment to add information and strategies around induction of labour.

5. Endorphins: Highlight how endorphins act as natural painkillers, released in response to the intensity of contractions, providing pain relief and a sense of euphoria.

6. Stress hormones: Talk about stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol, how they can slow labour down, and strategies to reduce stress for a more positive birth experience. My flashcards are an excellent way to explore different coping strategies!

7. Interactive activities: Try role-play scenarios, educational videos or card sorts about hormonal changes during birth. You’ll find a range of printable and ready-printed activities, posters and handouts here.

8. Visual aids: Bring learning to life with posters and banners, beadlines or models. These help learners visualise and understand the hormonal changes and the birth process as a whole. You can expand each section with examples, case studies or personal stories to make it more relatable and interesting.

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Top 10 Pregnancy Cravings

What are the top 10 pregnancy cravings, and where do they come from?

Cravings are very common during pregnancy. These unusual and sometimes intense urges vary a lot from person to person, but here are the top ten and some possible explanations:

1. Pickles: Many pregnant people crave the sour, tangy taste of pickles, possibly due to hormonal changes and increased blood volume. Did you know your body carries roughly 1,200–1,600ml of extra blood in pregnancy? Check out my weight gain in pregnancy handout.

2. Ice cream: A classic! The creamy, sweet taste may be linked to hormonal shifts or a desire for comfort food.

3. Chocolate: Many people crave chocolate in pregnancy – perhaps because of cocoa’s mood-boosting properties, as well as the body’s need for extra energy.

4. Spicy food: Cravings for hot sauces or chilli may be due to changes in blood flow and taste during pregnancy.

5. Citrus fruits: The refreshing taste of oranges and lemons is a common craving, possibly because of their vitamin C content and a desire to quench thirst.

6. Pizza: Gooey cheese, tangy tomato sauce and lots of toppings make pizza a popular craving, possibly due to the body’s need for carbohydrates and fats.

7. Sour sweets: Cravings for sour or citrus-flavoured sweets may be down to changes in taste preferences during pregnancy.

8. Peanut butter: Its rich, creamy texture and high protein content make it another very common craving – perhaps reflecting your increased need for protein to grow your baby.

9. Red meat: Some people crave steak or burgers, which could be a sign of low iron or an increased need for protein. Low iron is common in pregnancy, so if you’re feeling very tired or craving red meat, mention it to your midwife – they can check your iron levels and advise on supplements.

10. Crisps: The crunchy, salty taste of crisps is a common craving, possibly due to hormonal changes and the body’s need for sodium.

What are your cravings? Are they on this list? Share them in the comments!

Cravings vary greatly, so aim for a healthy, balanced diet while enjoying some (or all!) of your cravings. Always ask your midwife or healthcare professional for personalised advice. If you ever crave non-food items such as ice, soil or chalk (known as pica), tell your midwife, as it can be a sign of low iron.

Foods to avoid during pregnancy

In the UK, the NHS advises avoiding shark, swordfish and marlin (because of their mercury levels), and limiting tuna and oily fish. Avoid liver and liver products such as pâté, because of their high vitamin A content – and avoid all pâté, including vegetarian ones, as they can contain listeria. Avoid raw or undercooked meat, raw shellfish, and unpasteurised milk and dairy products, as well as some soft and mould-ripened cheeses unless they’re cooked until steaming hot. Eggs with the British Lion stamp are safe to eat runny. For the full, up-to-date list, see the NHS guide to foods to avoid in pregnancy.

Online Birth Preparation Course only £35!

Please also check out my online course! No videos, just text and images to learn in your own time. Includes hypnobirthing mp3s, scripts, workbook, handouts, infographics and much more! Lots and lots of information at your fingertips! Includes:

  • hypnobirthing mp3s
  • hypnobirthing scripts
  • written information
  • infographics and other imagery
  • printable handouts
  • printable workbook/journal
Enrol now

Sources and further reading

  • Bastos Maia S, et al. Vitamin A and Pregnancy: A Narrative Review. Nutrients. 2019;11(3):681. doi: 10.3390/nu11030681. PMC6470929
  • NHS: Foods to avoid in pregnancy
  • Orloff NC, Hormes JM. Pickles and ice cream! Food cravings in pregnancy: hypotheses, preliminary evidence, and directions for future research. Front Psychol. 2014;5:1076. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2014.01076. PMC4172095
  • Soma-Pillay P, et al. Physiological changes in pregnancy. Cardiovasc J Afr. 2016;27(2):89-94. doi: 10.5830/CVJA-2016-021. PMC4928162
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Travelling when pregnant

Travelling when pregnant 6 top tips

Here are 6 top tips for travelling when pregnant, to make your break or ‘babymoon’ as relaxing and enjoyable as possible!

  1. Choose the right destination
    • Shorter journeys are often more comfortable in pregnancy. Long-haul flights (over four hours) carry a small increased risk of blood clots (DVT), so if you’re flying long-haul, take extra precautions (see tip 4) and discuss any concerns with your midwife.
    • If your nearest airport or UK destination is a long drive away, consider an overnight stop to break up the journey.
    • Research your destination before you go – you may feel more relaxed knowing there are shops and medical facilities nearby. Avoid destinations that need vaccinations, or where there’s a risk of mosquito-borne diseases such as Zika virus, malaria or dengue fever.
  2. Make a plan and use checklists
    • Make a list of everything you’d like to take with you, and remember your maternity notes (or a copy).
    • Plan regular toilet breaks – choose a route with plenty of chances to use the loo!
    • Take a small cushion or pillow to support your back on the journey.
    • If you’re flying from 28 weeks, your airline may need a letter from your doctor or midwife, and most airlines won’t let you fly after 37 weeks (or 32 weeks if you’re expecting twins or more). Read my post on flying when pregnant.
  3. Take it easy
    • Choose a holiday where you can rest and relax.
    • If you’re sightseeing or shopping, allow plenty of breaks.
  4. Essentials for the journey
    • Pack plenty of snacks and water.
    • Take regular breaks.
    • During pregnancy, you’re at higher risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) when sitting still on long car journeys or flights. Move around as much as you can and do some simple stretches every hour. When driving, take a break at least every 90 minutes; when flying, walk up and down the aisle when you can. On longer journeys, consider wearing flight socks (compression stockings).
    • If your back hurts, try placing a rolled-up towel or small pillow under the back of your bottom and in the small of your back.
  5. Think about what you’re packing
    • To stay as comfortable as possible during your well-earned break, pack:
  6. Stick to your safe foods list
    • Eating out, buffets and local cuisine can be exciting – but remember that some foods may harm your baby, so stick to your safe foods list! See the NHS list of foods to avoid in pregnancy.
    • Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water. Local tap water may upset your stomach, so you may prefer bottled water.

Travelling by car? See my tips for driving when pregnant.

Sources and further reading:

Online Birth Preparation Course only £35!

Please also check out my online course! No videos, just text and images to learn in your own time. Includes hypnobirthing mp3s, scripts, workbook, handouts, infographics and much more! Lots and lots of information at your fingertips! Includes:

  • hypnobirthing mp3s
  • hypnobirthing scripts
  • written information
  • infographics and other imagery
  • printable handouts
  • printable workbook/journal
Enrol now
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5 Things to look for when choosing your childbirth education

5 things to look for when choosing your childbirth education

Want to feel prepared for the birth of your baby (or babies)? Here are 5 things to look for when choosing your childbirth education.

As the birth of your baby approaches, you may have a lot of questions. What does a contraction wave feel like? How will I know when to call the midwife? What kind of breathing techniques can I use? How do I know when it is time to push?

You may also feel a mix of emotions – excitement, nervousness, stress, even anxiety. The good news is that preparing for the birth can ease your fears and build your confidence. Choosing the right childbirth course for you (and your partner) is key: it should give you practical knowledge about the physiology of birth, and tell you where to find practical and emotional support.

5 Things to look for when choosing your childbirth education

1. Does the course agree with your idea on childbirth?

Whether you’re planning a vaginal birth, caesarean birth, waterbirth, home birth or something else, make sure your chosen course supports your wishes and preferences. How you give birth is up to you.

Knowing the general philosophy of the birth course you are considering is essential. The techniques that you’ll be learning should be something that you can see yourself doing and something that you believe in. The techniques should support you to achieve the birth you are aiming for.

2. Which topics are covered during the course?

If this is your first baby, your course should cover everything you need to know about your options and what to expect. If you’ve given birth before, you may prefer a refresher course – and you may also want to prepare older siblings for the arrival of their little brother or sister. Learning about childbirth can ease anxiety and help you make informed choices, but the wrong type of course can increase anxiety, so choose your course and its leader carefully.

3. Who created the course?

Who created the childbirth preparation course? Are they a medical professional or a teacher? Are they an expert in childbirth education? Check their certifications and experience! You want the person and organisation offering your childbirth preparation course to be established and reputable. Ask them to show you proof of their qualification(s).

4. What format is the course in?

Check the format of the course. You may prefer a course which focuses on the birth only, or one that includes practical baby care. If you are interested in hypnobirthing, does the course include hypnobirthing or maybe you prefer a stand-alone hypnobirthing course.

Can partners come along too, or is the course for birthing parents only? Which format would you prefer?

5. Practical things to consider

  • Where and when is the course held? Are the dates, time and venue convenient for you?
  • What is your budget? What are your options at your budget?
  • For an in-person course
    • is there parking available or is it easily accessible via public transport?
    • Is the venue clean and spacious?
    • What are the chair/seating arrangements like? Do you want/need to bring a birthing ball, cushions etc.?
    • Are refreshments included?
    • Accessibility of the venue (where needed)
  • For an online course
    • are you confident in using the platform the course is being offered on?
    • is it a live course or has live elements or is it fully self-paced? – for live elements: are they recorded? If not can you make all the sessions?
    • Is your internet connection reliable?
    • Have you got a pc or laptop to access the course on? This will make your online course a more positive experience.
    • Have I got a comfortable (seating) setup where I can join the online childbirth preparation course?

What type/style of childbirth preparation course you choose is entirely up to you! Use your B.R.A.I.N. acronym when choosing the right course for you:

Brain acronym

What are the benefits, risks (or repercussion), alternatives (for each option)? Trust your gut, your intuition. And think about how you might feel if you do nothing, i.e. you don’t choose a childbirth preparation course?

If you’d like to prepare at your own pace, my fully self-paced online childbirth preparation course includes hypnobirthing, mp3s and much, much more! You can read more about the BRAIN acronym in The BRAIN Acronym for Childbirth.

Online Birth Preparation Course only £35!

Please also check out my online course! No videos, just text and images to learn in your own time. Includes hypnobirthing mp3s, scripts, workbook, handouts, infographics and much more! Lots and lots of information at your fingertips! Includes:

  • hypnobirthing mp3s
  • hypnobirthing scripts
  • written information
  • infographics and other imagery
  • printable handouts
  • printable workbook/journal
Enrol now

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Pricing yourself and your business

Pricing yourself and your business - birth worker, doula, antenatal teacher

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