Forget the Status Quo: 9 Reasons to Break the Rules of Traditional Childbirth | Western Sydney Birth Photographer

Hey there mama-to-be! So, you might be feeling a little overwhelmed with all the information (or lack thereof) about giving birth. But don't worry, I’ve got you!

Here are 10 things your doctor probably didn't tell you about giving birth in Western and greater Sydney that will help you feel more prepared and in control.

(And hey, if these pique your interest, bring these up to your doctor at the next appointment!)

You don't have to give birth in the hospital.

Giving birth at home or in a birth center can provide a more relaxed and intimate setting for the birth of your baby. It allows you to have more control over the birthing process and can provide a more personalised experience. This option is safe for low-risk pregnancies and has similar or better outcomes compared to hospital births.

Question for your doctor: Would he/she support you and work with a home birth midwife if you decided to go this route?

Bonus: Birth Centres in Sydney include: Belmont Birthing Services, Northern Beaches Hospital, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital Birth Centre and St George Hospital Birth Centre.

Homebirth NSW

MGP (or caseload) midwives provide continuity of care throughout pregnancy, birth, and postpartum.

Midwifery Group Practice (MGP) offers a model of care where a dedicated team of midwives supports you throughout your pregnancy, birth, and postpartum period. Typically, you'll have a primary midwife but may also interact with others in the group, depending on scheduling. MGP services are often in high demand and primarily cater to women with low-risk pregnancies, so it's advisable to inquire early in your pregnancy to secure a spot.

Question for your doctor: Am I eligible for MGP care at this hospital, and how do I apply?

Bonus: Blacktown, Nepean, Westmead, Campbelltown are some hospitals I work with that offer MGP.

Doulas are a great support and aren’t only used for birth.

A doula is a professional trained to provide emotional and physical support to a woman and her partner during pregnancy, labour, delivery, and postpartum period. A doula can help you with relaxation techniques, provide emotional support, and advocate for your wishes during birth.

Question for your doctor: Do you work with doulas often? Are there any you recommend?

Bonus: Find a NSW Doula

Epidurals are not the only form of pain relief available during labour.

Epidurals are a common form of pain relief during labour, but they are not the only option available. Other forms of pain relief include nitrous oxide, spinal blocks, and natural methods such as hypno-birthing (I did this!!), a tens machine (used this also), acupuncture and massage. These options can provide a more natural and less invasive form of pain relief.

Question for your doctor: What other pain relief options do they see often that’s effective other than epidural?

Bonus: Hypno-birthing Australia

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Birthing pools can help you feel more comfortable and relaxed during labour.

Warm water can help ease the pain and discomfort of contractions, and it also allows you to move around more easily, which can help the baby move down the birth canal. Birthing pools can also provide a sense of privacy and intimacy during labour.

Question for your doctor: Are there birth pools at the hospital or another way I can use water to relax?

You will probably poop during labour (and that's okay!).

It's a normal and natural part of the birthing process - you’re honestly unlikely to even realise it happened - and your nurses and doctors are used to it. Don't let this concern hold you back, it's nothing to be embarrassed about.

Birthing positions - there are many different positions that can help make the birthing process easier.

There are various birthing positions that can help make the birthing process easier, such as standing up, sitting down, on your hands and knees, or even lying down. Experiment with different positions to find what feels most comfortable for you.

Question for your doctor: In what positions are you willing to help me birth my baby?

As a birth photographer (and a mother myself!), I’ve seen many different birthing positions that help mothers work with their bodies during labour. Personally, I birthed lying down - something I wasn't planning at all! But in the moment, it was the position that made sense for me and my MGP midwife supported me, making me as comfortable as possible until I it was time to push. I’ve seen other mothers instinctively move into hands-and-knees, squatting, or upright positions, while some - like me - find that even an unplanned position can end up being exactly what’s needed. Every birth is different, and having a care provider who encourages movement and choice can make all the difference. Read my birth story here.

Cesarean sections are not as scary as they seem.

C-sections are a common form of delivery and can be planned or unplanned. Your doctor and nurses will take great care of you and your baby during the procedure. It's important to remember that a c-section is a surgical procedure and there are risks associated with it, but it can also save the lives of both mother and baby in certain situations.

Question for your doctor: In what circumstances do you perform c-sections?

The power of the mind - visualisation and other relaxation techniques can help during labour.

Visualisation and relaxation techniques such as hypno-birthing, yoga, and meditation can help you stay calm and focused during labour. It can also help to lower stress hormones and increase endorphins, which can make labour more manageable.

Question for your doctor: Is there anything I can do now to learn how to cope with labour?