Their planned home birth in Porirua, Wellington, was carefully prepared, with a birthing pool ready, the warmth of their home set, and their family and midwife by their side.

Bringing a baby into the world is one of the most magical moments a woman can experience. However, the fear of tearing during childbirth is something that often lurks in the back of many expectant mothers' minds. The good news is that there are techniques you can learn to help reduce the risk of tearing and make the birthing experience smoother and more comfortable. Practicing breathing out during bowel movements can help you become more attuned to the sensation of exerting pressure without forcefully pushing.

Here are 5 natural pain relief options that your partner can help with. During your journey of labour and birth, there are several natural pain relief options that partners can offer to provide support to you. Finding what works for you is a good place to start.

Welcoming a new life into the world is a remarkable journey, and the prospect of childbirth often comes with a mix of anticipation and apprehension. Through educating ourselves I believe we can turn the fear and apprehension into empowered understanding that will ensure our birth experience is as it should be; the biggest and best moment of your life. If you’re here it means you’ve taken a step in the right direction. Please feel free to discover my other blogs in the ‘How to manage pain during birth series’ on my blog landing page.

If you are pregnant and feeling worried about how you might manage your pain during labour and birth, this is something you should be looking into! Acupressure is widely known as traditional Chinese medicine that has proven benefits for managing pain. Only in the last few years has acupressure been rediscovered as a technique for managing labour and birth pains.

Wellington Antenatal courses for a positive birth!
Birth preparation is essential. If there is one thing you should invest your time into researching it is antenatal education. Antenatal education creates a foundation of knowledge that you can build you confidence and positive mindset on. Here I offer my thoughts on some of the best antenatal courses in Wellington.

Birth photography captured first moments with family. An aunty holding meeting her niece for the firs time after watching her be born.

Birth photography of Jordana Loloma.

Madisons first birthday photography. First birthdays are worth remembering with a milestone photography session.