The Relax Into Birth Podcast Charlene West

I have a love/hate relationship with birth plans so we thought it would be a great topic to bring to our weekly chats about everything pregnancy, birth and beyond. In this episode we chat more about why birth plans became popular and the importance of using the right language when creating one so that what you are really creating is a birth day wish list. Essentially everything that you do leading up to your birth is part of your birth plan and involves preparation - which is the part that I love. The more you prepare, the better the plan.

Drop us a line if you have any questions. We love feedback and if there is a subject you'd like to hear us natter about then let us know.

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Waterbirth is known for its pain relieving effects and the benefits do not stop there. Water helps the mother to be buoyant and gives her added capacity for mobility. The water softens the tissues as the baby moves down the birth path and provides the baby with a gentle landing, as it transitions from the amniotic waters into the waters of the pool. The soothing effects of water cannot be denied and we chat all about this amazing option for labour and for birth at home or at hospital, to help you make your mind up about it and decide if you would like to try it for your birth experience. 

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Charlene had a call from a client in early labor on the morning of recording this episode so we thought it would be a great topic to chat about. Despite the call, we still managed to record this episode and have a few cups of tea and a chat before it was time for Charlene to head over to be with her and the baby was born later that evening.

So in this episode we discuss:


When should you call your doula?
Should you call your doula or your midwife first?
Should you let the hospital know you are en route?
Is it different if you are having a home birth?
Is it possible to call too late?

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This week we had a great question from a listener who is concerned about the size of her baby. She sent us a one liner message asking "Is a baby really ever too big to give birth to vaginally?"

As always, we consider both facts and opinions and explore the different perspectives of doulas, midwives, birthing mothers and obstetricians.

More about Karen here

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In this episode, we cover the topic of induction as requested by a listener on our Relax Into Birth PLUS mom's whatsapp group. 

"Dear Charlene and Karen. I am 39 weeks tomorrow and this morning at my routine checkup, my doctor recommended that I come in for an induction of labor on Thursday. Part of me is like 'hell yes, let's get this baby out pleazzzze', but there is another part that is wondering whether my baby needs a few more days inside? Is he ready? And actually - am I? I have definitely noticed that I am getting more frequent Braxton Hicks and I am feeling a lot of heaviness in my pelvis, but besides that, not much at all. If I go in on Thursday, I could be home by the weekend with my precious baby boy? Should I go for it? Looking forward to your thoughts on induction. Thanks, Anon"

Is induction of labour always necessary, or is it (sadly) sometimes scheduled out of convenience, fear, impatience or discomfort? Listen in for the ins and outs of this topic, as well as learn about some natural forms of induction that can get the bun in the oven keener to come earth side. If you are keen to join our whatsapp group of preggie mamas, please slide into our DMs and let us know. Also, look out for our Relax Into Birth PLUS online antenatal course, covering extensive Hypnobirthing techniques, as well as the physiological side of labour and birth. See you there!

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More about Karen here

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This was an uncomfortable topic to tackle. Unfortunately bait and switch tactics are common, especially in South Africa. The conversation was started by a query in our private Preggie-mama Whatsapp group which got everyone sharing their experience and encouraged us to open the discussion on our podcast.

In this episode Karen and Charlene attempt to look at it from all angles rather than making it an "us against them" situation and share some useful tips for red flag conversations and how to manage them.

More about Karen here

More about Charlene here

Preview Relax into Birth PLUS here