How do we feel more in control during labour? Many of the women we support are ambitious, determined and used to being in control. That doesn't suddenly change when you're pregnant, so it's completely understandable that feeling in control during labour and birth is incredibly important. With that in mind, here are five simple strategies to help you feel more confident, informed and in control throughout your birth. 1. Educate Yourself Knowledge is power. The more you understand about birth, the more confident you'll feel when making decisions during labour. Invest time in learning about the birthing process and seek support from someone who is experienced and knowledgeable about pregnancy and birth. Make sure your birth partner learns alongside you too. You don't have to be a passive 'patient' during labour. There are so many practical things you can do to increase your confidence, focus and sense of control. Learn about the physiology of birth and what's happening in both your body and your mind. Practise relaxation techniques, comfort measures and different birth positions so you feel prepared, whatever direction your birth takes. 2. Create a Birth Plan… or Three Write a birth plan that outlines your preferences for labour, birth and the immediate postnatal period. Rather than simply listing your preferred pain relief options or birth positions, think through different situations that could arise and discuss them with your partner and/or pregnancy coach or antenatal educator. Consider what decisions you might want to make in each scenario while you have the time and space to think clearly. Many women find it helpful to create a second and even a third birth plan. For example, you could have one plan for spontaneous labour, another if labour is induced, and another in case an unplanned caesarean becomes the safest option. 3. Choose the Right Support Team Surround yourself with people who genuinely support your birth preferences and goals. This might include your partner, a doula, pregnancy and birth coach, antenatal educatoror an independent midwife. Having people around you who understand your wishes, communicate well with your maternity team and advocate for you when needed can make an enormous difference. The right support team provides not only emotional reassurance but also practical guidance, helping you feel informed, supported and confident throughout pregnancy and birth. 4. Practise Relaxation Techniques Learn and regularly practise relaxation techniques such as breathing exercises, visualisation, self-hypnosis and mindfulness. These techniques can help reduce anxiety, make contractions feel more manageable and allow you to stay calm and focused, whatever path your labour takes. During our classes, we explore a variety of techniques together so you can discover which ones work best for you. Every woman is different, so your preparation should be tailored to you. 5. Prioritise Your Health and Wellbeing Looking after your physical and mental wellbeing throughout pregnancy is one of the best ways to prepare for birth. I know this can be difficult when life is busy, but remember that looking after yourself is also looking after your baby. Plan your week where possible, build healthy habits, keep active with gentle exercise such as walking or pregnancy yoga, eat well and listen to your body when it needs rest. Over the years, I've seen time and again that women who feel physically strong and mentally prepared approach labour with greater confidence and resilience. Remember… No matter how well you prepare, birth can be unpredictable. Feeling in control doesn't mean everything goes exactly to plan, it means understanding your options, making informed decisions and adapting confidently if circumstances change. Be open to moving from Plan A to Plan B or even Plan C if needed, while trusting in your body's incredible ability to birth your baby. Your preparation, knowledge and mindset can make all the difference in helping you have a calm, positive and empowering birth experience.

How to reduce unnecessary medical interventions during labour.