Labour and birth

Your midwife will help you prepare for labour and birth and support your choices wherever possible.

It is normal to have questions about labour, pain relief, when to go to hospital and how your partner, family or support network can help. 

What you need to know

Planning where and how to give birth

In Oxfordshire, options may include:

• home birth
• midwifery led unit
• hospital birth

Your midwife will help you choose what is right for you and your baby.

Find out more about your options.

Preparing for labour

You may want to learn more about:

• signs of labour
• when to contact maternity services
• pain relief options
• what to pack in your hospital bag
• how birth partners can help

Your midwife will explain when and how to get these during pregnancy.

What to expect

After your baby is born

• your baby will have health checks
• you will be supported with feeding and recovery
• care will gradually transfer from midwives to the Health Visiting Service  

Resources and support

• the NHS pregnancy guide - includes all you need to know about trying for a baby, pregnancy, labour and birth
• NCT labour and birth information -  information and tips on everything you need to know

Pregnancy can affect your emotional health. It is really important to speak up because there are people who can help. Learn more about emotional wellbeing on our taking care of you in pregnancy page.

Pop into one of our family hubs 

Family hubs provide ongoing support after your baby arrives, including activities, family services and opportunities to meet other parents. 

Want to find out more about what comes next? 

Newborns and the first few months. My baby and me.