Pregnancy
We’ve pulled together support & tips from the best of the UK’s independent midwives, doulas, antenatal instructors and postnatal providers.
The Virtual Doula Changing How Modern Families Prepare for Birth
When Charlotte Butterworth-Pool launched The Smart Doula nearly two years ago, she didn’t set out to reinvent what birth support could look like. However she did want to help a few expectant parents navigate the confusing tangle of maternity guidelines in the UK. What she didn’t expect was that her approach, entirely virtual, deeply evidence-based, and available by…
-
Microchimerism: The Hidden Connection Between Mother and Child
Pregnancy Pal finds out more about microchimerism, where cells from a baby remain inside the mother for years to come, with some studies suggesting these cells can improve a mother’s health.
-
I was petrified of giving birth – THIS completely changed everything
When Sarah Cheeseman was expecting her first child, she was absolutely terrified of the thought of giving birth. The fear of pain, the unknown, and all the ‘what ifs’ swirled in her mind, leaving her feeling anxious about the upcoming experience. But something happened that completely transformed her mindset and…
-
Because of my Mum, I never feared birth
Julia Kitching’s journey into the world of hypnobirthing and birth support wasn’t driven by fear, but by fascination—thanks to her mother. Growing up, Julia’s mum shared stories of her own birth experience with such positivity that it shaped Julia’s entire view of childbirth. “My mum told me birth wasn’t painful,…
-
What Happens When Your Baby Is Late?
So, you’ve hit that magical due date, the one you’ve had circled on the calendar for months, and yet… nothing! The nursery is ready, your hospital bag is packed, and still, no baby. If you’re in this situation, you’re definitely not alone. ‘Postdates pregnancy’, where your pregnancy goes beyond the…
-
Weeks 5-8 of Pregnancy
Week 5 Pregnancy Symptoms By week five, your baby is still tiny, about the size of a sesame seed, but there’s a lot happening inside. This is the week when many people first start noticing that they’re pregnant, especially if they’ve missed a period. Morning sickness might kick in, and…
-
Weeks 1-4 of Pregnancy
Week 1 Pregnancy Symptoms It’s the start of your pregnancy journey, but technically, you’re not pregnant just yet! Your body is preparing for ovulation, and while you may not feel anything out of the ordinary, it’s a good time to start thinking about your health. Make sure you’re getting plenty…
