Childbirth
ChildbirthThe birth of a child is a unique and emotional experience for every family. There is no single right way to prepare for childbirth nor one right way to give birth.
Preparing for childbirth
It is impossible to know the exact course of labour in advance, but you can prepare for it. You can think about matters such as who you will bring with you and whether you want to use pain relief.
You can bring a birth partner and a doula to support you during labour. We recommend choosing someone close to you as your birth partner.
Childbirth makes almost every expectant parent feel at least a little nervous. However, if you find that the thought of giving birth causes you significant anxiety, talk to your public health nurse at the maternity clinic.
During labour
Each birth proceeds at its own pace. Childbirth is divided into three phases: dilation, pushing and the placental stage.
You can decide how to relieve pain during childbirth when the time comes. However, making the choice is easier if you know the options beforehand.
As a client of maternity clinics in Helsinki, you are free to choose either the Women’s Hospital, Espoo Hospital or Hyvinkää Hospital as your maternity hospital.
After childbirth
You can start exercising immediately after giving birth in accordance with your condition. Low-intensity exercise will speed up your body’s recovery from the changes caused by pregnancy and childbirth.
More than half of people who have given birth experience increased emotional sensitivity after childbirth. The situation usually eases on its own once daily routines set in.
Your fertility may recover quickly, even if you are breastfeeding. Think about contraception already during pregnancy and tell the clinic about your wishes.
