Women holding newborn baby

My birth

Every baby and every birth is different. There is no 'right way' to have a baby, but there are lots of decisions to make depending on your health, your preferences and your baby's health. The Kent and Medway maternity teams are here to support you and your midwife can help talk things through. 

The more information you have about birth, the more you can feel in control as things unfold. Overall, this increases your chance of having the best birth for you.

In this section

  1. Early signs of labour

    Getting ready for labour and how you know labour is starting.

  2. Stages of labour

    The stages of labour and what to expect.

  3. Induction of labour

    Induction of labour is recommended to protect you and your baby.

  4. Coping with labour

    Options available to help you cope with labour.

  5. Assisted birth (forceps or suction cup)

    Extra help with the use of medical instruments.

  6. Caesarean birth during labour

    Sometimes it is necessary for your baby to be born via caesarean section.

  7. Planned caesarean birth

    An operation which means your baby will be born via a cut in your abdomen.

  8. Vaginal birth after caesarean (VBAC)

    Having a vaginal birth after caesarean (VBAC) is a safe option for many people.

  9. When baby comes early

    Around eight out of 100 babies will be born prematurely.

  10. Inspiring stories

    Families share their pregnancy and birth stories.