When the one you want is also the one you need. I have supported a woman to get a planned Ceasarean Birth for severe Tokophobia (Childbirth Phobia). As we talked, she admitted to having thoughts of not wanting to be here anymore but struggling to verbalise that to her midwife. Once we dug a little deeper together, we realised that in an effort to cope, she was burying a lot of her fears and presenting a really 'together' image that was in stark contrast to the despair she w

First of all, if you're coming to BellyTots, just arrive when you can. Even if it's for the tea and chat at the end! I recognise how hard it is to get out with a baby. I'll cheer you on just for making it - at any time! But here are some hints and tips: 1. It's completely normal to struggle to get to a class on time. It's a rare Mum who strolls calmly in with a content baby 5 minutes before the class! There is no magical secret, it's not easy and Baby Class Teachers kno

Great question! As a Baby Massage Teacher of a few years now, I can tell you that it depends on what you're expecting. If you are hoping for a room full of blissed out babies, smiling as they drift off to sleep while their peaceful parent gazes adoringly at them and tops up the massage oil to continue gliding their hands across their infant's skin, then - for sure - baby massage will not feel like all it's cracked up to be! Babies have no idea we have decided it's massage ti

Short version - Yes, of course. The free Antentatal Classes at your NHS Maternity Unit and closest Children's Centres are very helpful...