HELPFUL HINTS FOR FAMILY LIFE Six things about childbirth you might not know

As research finds 78 per cent of mums are ‘horrified’ by what they experience during and after birth, a midwife discusses what may surprise them.

Nobody is more aware of what a woman goes through during and after childbirth than a midwife, and Clare Livingstone, professional policy advisor at the Royal College of Midwives points out the overriding feeling when new mums reflect on their childbirth journey should be pride, rather than horror at what their body goes through.

1. Your birth plan won’t necessarily be followed

The research for parenting brand Frida found 28 per cent of mums wished they’d known their birth plan could go out the window so easily. It’s crucial for new parents to be flexible.

2. Unimaginable tiredness ‘Tiredness is probably the number one unexpected effect after a woman has a baby,’ warns Livingstone.

3. It’s vital to ask for help

She urges all new parents not to be scared to ask for help, although she points out that while new mums need to take it easy, they should move at least a little.

4. You can ask your midwife anything

‘There’s no such thing as a silly question,’ stresses Livingstone. ‘Midwives have seen and heard it all before, so your midwife will never judge you. They’ll be pleased you’re asking questions – it’s a good sign.’

5. Breastfeeding won’t necessarily be easy Breastfeeding is something mothers and babies have to learn. ‘It’s always challenging, especially for first-time mums – they need support and reassurance,’ she stresses. ‘There’s a bit of pain and discomfort, but that will alleviate as you get used to it and more practised, and get the positioning correct.

The baby has to learn too – you learn the whole thing together.’

6. Be prepared to not be prepared!

Twenty-six per cent of mums wished they’d known how painful childbirth could be, and the same percentage wished they’d known just how long labour can be.